Shocking Coup Plot Targets Haitian Island

A shocking plot to overthrow a Haitian island and enslave its people has rocked the nation, highlighting the dangers of domestic extremism and international crime.

Story Highlights

Two Texas men face charges for planning a violent coup in Haiti.
The plot aimed to murder men and enslave women and children.
Involvement of a U.S. Airman raises concerns about military radicalization.
Authorities continue to investigate the international implications of the plot.

Indictment of Two Texas Men in Violent Coup Plot

In a disturbing case that underscores the intersection of domestic extremism and international crime, two young men from North Texas have been indicted for allegedly planning a violent coup on Gonâve Island, Haiti.

Gavin Rivers Weisenburg, 21, and Tanner Christopher Thomas, 20, are accused of conspiring to murder all men on the island and enslave women and children. This heinous plot, involving extensive planning, recruitment, and weapons research, was brought to light following a federal indictment.

The indictment, filed on November 20, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, charges both men with conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country and production of child pornography.

If convicted, they face life imprisonment for the conspiracy charge and up to 30 years for the pornography charge. The media has been quick to highlight the “movie-like” nature of their scheme, reflecting the broader trend of online radicalization and the use of digital platforms for organizing extremist activities.

Background and Motivations Behind the Plot

Gonâve Island, located near Port-au-Prince, is home to approximately 87,000 residents and has a history of political instability and economic hardship. This vulnerability made it a target for Weisenburg and Thomas, who allegedly sought to exploit the island’s challenges to achieve their violent goals. The men communicated about their plans on social media, attempting to recruit others and gain tactical skills through military and first responder training.

The involvement of Thomas, a U.S. Airman, highlights the troubling issue of military radicalization. After enlisting in the U.S. Air Force to acquire military training, Thomas changed his assignment to facilitate recruitment efforts in Washington, D.C. This aspect of the plot has raised significant concerns about the potential for service members to be radicalized, necessitating increased vigilance within the military.

Legal Proceedings and Broader Implications

The legal proceedings are underway, with both men pleading not guilty. Their defense attorneys, David Finn and John Helms, have stated that they plan to defend their clients vigorously. The case continues to unfold, with the FBI, U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and Celina Police Department spearheading the investigation.

Beyond the immediate legal ramifications, this plot has highlighted the need for increased coordination between law enforcement agencies to tackle domestic extremism. It also underscores the importance of regulating online platforms to curb the spread of extremist ideologies.

The plot’s international dimensions call for cooperation between the United States and Haiti to address threats to national security and protect vulnerable populations.

The potential economic, social, and political impacts of this case are significant. For the Haitian population, the threat of violence and enslavement is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities facing the island. Meanwhile, the U.S. military and law enforcement communities must grapple with the implications of military training being used for nefarious purposes.