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Wisconsin man extradited and arraigned in Whitmer kidnap plot

By FOX 2 Staff
Published  May 4, 2021 4:36pm EDT
Whitmer Kidnapping Plot
FOX 2 Detroit

LANSING, Mich. (FOX 2) - A Wisconsin man charged for his alleged role in the plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer was arraigned Tuesday.

Brian Higgins is one of eight men to face state charges in the alleged elaborate Wolverine Watchmen militia plot that included putting her on trial for treason and possibly storming the state Capitol.

Brian Higgins

Brian Higgins

It is alleged that Higgins provided assistance in the plan to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer from her vacation home.   

Higgins, 51, of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin,  was arraigned in the Antrim County Jail this afternoon, according to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel's office.

He’s charged with providing material support of an act of terrorism, a 20-year felony.  Higgins was extradited from Wisconsin after withdrawing his extradition appeal. 

Higgins’ bond was set at $100,000, 10 percent and includes the following conditions: 

  • He will be placed on GPS tether prior to release; 
  • He must be seen by pre-trial services prior to release; 
  • He will have no contact with Gov. Whitmer or her family; 
  • He must stay at least 500 yards away from the workplace and all residences of the Governor and her family; 
  • He must not be in possession of any weapons; 
  • He must not have any contact with militia or militia members; and 
  • He must surrender his passport to the Court. 

"My office is pleased to see Mr. Higgins arraigned in Michigan," Nessel said in a release. "Our focus remains on holding those who seek to do violence against elected officials-and, therefore, undermine our democracy-accountable." 

A probable cause conference is set for May 12 at 1 p.m. 

A preliminary exam - which will be in person and Higgins will be required to return to Michigan for once scheduled - was not set at arraignment.