Lawyer Claims FBI Focused on Online Talk, Gun Activity in Michigan terrorism Case
DETROIT – Nov. 1, 2025 - The lawyer representing a suspect in a recently disrupted alleged terrorist plot in Michigan asserts the case centers on protected free speech and lawful gun activity, not a concrete plan to commit violence.Attorney Bill Makled contends the FBI targeted his client based on online conversations and firearm ownership, characterizing the situation as reminiscent of a previously dismissed militia case.
Makled stated his client is “certainly scared” and concerned about “political pressure from Washington” and the potential impact on his family. “He’s certainly concerned,” Makled said. ”He’s certainly concerned about the political pressure from Washington. He’s worried about his family and what could potentially happen.”
The defence maintains there was no intent to cause harm, describing the exchanges as “friends talking tough on the internet.” Makled urged the U.S. attorney’s Office to recognize “there’s nothing there.”
The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have declined to comment on the case. When questioned about the use of undercover agents, Makled responded, “I don’t know, because there’s no plot to uncover.”
Makled drew parallels to the 2012 Hutaree trial,where seven defendants were acquitted after the judge agreed the group’s talk of violence amounted to ”playing army” and lacked a concrete plan. “This is like hutaree 101,” he said, adding, “I don’t know what the government has yet … but it’s giving me those Hutaree vibes.”
The case unfolded as FBI director Kash Patel announced the thwarting of a potential terrorist attack in Michigan on Oct. 31, 2025.
The family of the suspect expressed hope the U.S. attorney’s Office would dismiss the case, believing their son was not radicalized or involved in any terrorist plot. “Thay’re praying and hoping that nothing comes out of this,” makled said.
