On Wednesday, Brian Higgins from Wisconsin Dells pleaded guilty to his involvement in a plan to kidnap Democratic Governor of Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer, in 2020. He confessed to aiding the scheme by carrying out surveillance of Whitmer’s vacation home in Antrim County.

Initially, the 54-year-old was arrested for providing material support for an act of terrorism, a charge that carries a potential 20-year sentence.

However, he ultimately pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support for terrorism, a lesser charge, under a plea agreement that resulted in a reduced sentence. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.

“I wish to plead guilty,” Higgins told the judge in a virtual court appearance.

Under the agreement, Higgins has pledged to collaborate with prosecutors and “testify truthfully against the other remaining defendants about their involvement in the plot,” according to a statement from the Michigan Department of Attorney General.

He was among five individuals charged with aiding the conspiracy plot, and their trial is set to take place later this year in northern Michigan.

In October 2020, over a dozen individuals were accused of participating in a plot to kidnap the Democratic governor. Three of the defendants were convicted in Jackson County in December and are currently serving lengthy prison sentences.

In addition, federal prosecutors pressed charges against six other individuals. Four, including supposed ringleaders Barry Croft Jr. and Adam Fox, were found guilty, while the remaining two were acquitted.

“Anti-government extremism poses a threat to the safety of public officials, law enforcement officers, and residents all across our state,” Attorney General Dana Nessel said in a statement.

“My department’s Hate Crimes and Domestic Terrorism Unit is working around the clock to ensure that those who attempt to sow discord and commit violence in Michigan are stopped before any harm can come of their plots. We will keep fighting to deliver justice as the remaining prosecutions continue to play out,” she added.

Judge Charles Hamlyn will delay sentencing Higgins until after the August trial of his four co-defendants. If convicted of the terrorism charge, the four could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison.