Illinois Man Charged in Alleged Plot Potentially Targeting Hindu Place of Worship

Police investigate reported communications

Palatine police said they began investigating after Mount Prospect officers relayed information about a potential mass shooting. The tip came from someone who reported receiving concerning electronic messages from Paporakis.

Police say Paporakis had shared a document describing an alleged mass-shooting plan, as well as images of a rifle, magazines, body armor and tactical gear. Officers from both departments arrested him Sunday evening as he left his Palatine home.

Items recovered and alleged target

A search of the home turned up a rifle, loaded magazines, hundreds of additional rounds, tactical equipment and other items, authorities said. Investigators also reported finding body armor and a vest patch associated with white supremacist extremism.

Detectives reviewed communications and a document attributed to Paporakis that expressed extremist views and referred to violence against people of South Asian heritage, especially those of Indian descent. Police believe the possible attack date was Oct. 11 and that a Hindu place of worship in the Aurora area may have been targeted; they have not identified a specific site.

Charges and court proceedings

His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 30 at 9 a.m. ET. Palatine police said the investigation is ongoing and authorities have identified no known continuing danger to the public.

Agencies describe response

Aurora police were informed of the potential threat and contacted Hindu places of worship in their jurisdiction to share the information, authorities said. Palatine Police Chief William Nord praised the cooperation between the two local departments and thanked the original tipster and the FBI.

FBI Chicago Special Agent in Charge Ryan Whalen said the agency works with local and state partners to address threats driven by radical ideologies. He credited the quick response with enabling an arrest without harm to the community.