HARLINGEN, Texas — The FBI has arrested a Tennessee man who was allegedly planning a violent attack on the Texas-Mexico border, court documents reveal.
Paul Faye Sr. has been charged with possession of an unregistered firearm/silencer regulated by the National Firearms Act, according to federal records.
The probe began with Bryan Perry, who was charged in Missouri with “various violent federal felonies,” the court complaint stated. Perry’s phone showed extensive contact with Faye leading up to his arrest, and Faye expressed a desire to travel to the U.S./Mexico border with Perry and another individual to commit acts of violence.
In March 2023, the FBI introduced an undercover agent to Faye on TikTok and arranged for a meeting with Faye and his two sons on April 1, 2023. During the meeting, Faye expressed beliefs that the government was “training to take on its citizens” and was allowing migrants to enter the country to assist them.
Faye discussed his tactical training, showed photographs of weapons, and mentioned the need to train in person before traveling to the border. He also met with an individual who had traveled to the border with members of his militia group and discussed coordinating with militia groups from various states.
Faye also revealed that he was in possession of explosive devices and butane tanks that he could use as booby traps. At his residence, he showed a “war room” containing numerous firearms, ammunition, and a bulletproof vest.
An arrest warrant was issued on Feb. 2 and records show he was taken into custody three days later. Faye made his initial appearance in federal court on Feb. 5 and has a detention hearing scheduled for Feb. 12.