Captain Randy Fogler said at a press conference that an FBI tip led to the deputies securing a warrant Thursday April 24, 2025. The FBI flagged the online communications of 22-year-old Damien Allen because he was discussing a mass shooting with other people.
The search of Allen’s residence yielded 18 firearms, body armor, rifle plates, a helmet, and 12,000 rounds of ammunition, Fogler said. In addition to the weapons and armor, Captain Fogler said the deputies found Allen was in possession of a full Class B Palm Beach County SO uniform. In addition to the uniform, Fogler said investigators found a badge, other law enforcement credentials, a duty belt, a mobile radio, and a TASER. He also had a vehicle mocked up as a law enforcement patrol vehicle and a 3D printed body camera, Fogler said.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said the suspect was ready to go, he had the “equipment and the propensity.”
Bradshaw praised the deputies and FBI agents involved in the investigation and arrest of Allen. “There is no doubt in my mind that they stopped a mass shooting. There is no doubt in my mind that they saved a lot of lives,” he said.
Fogler said the suspect had identified five possible targets, including a police station, a church, and three racially motivated targets.
Items with Nazi insignia were found during the search of Allen’s residence, Fogler said.
Allen has been charged with making threats to kill or do bodily harm, unlawful use of a two-way communications device, and unlawful use of a law enforcement badge.
Federal charges are possible.