Null Brothers Filed Lawsuit Against Michigan Officials
The plaintiffs allege malicious prosecution after their acquittal in a plot to kidnap the Michigan governor.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Terrorism
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On September 15, 2026, Michael and William Null filed a federal lawsuit against Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and FBI officials. The brothers claim they were framed and maliciously prosecuted in connection to a kidnapping plot that decimated their remodeling business.
Why it matters
The lawsuit contends that the kidnapping charges were manufactured by an FBI agent and confidential informants. This legal action highlights ongoing disputes regarding government tactics during the investigation into extremist activities in Michigan.
The federal lawsuit filed September 15 follows a 14-day state trial in Antrim County that resulted in the plaintiffs' acquittal. Nine other suspects in the case have already been convicted or accepted plea deals.
The players
Michael Null
He is a Plainwell resident and one of the plaintiffs who sued following his acquittal on charges related to the kidnapping plot.
William Null
He is a Shelbyville resident and plaintiff who was acquitted of providing support for a terrorist act and a weapon charge.
Dana Nessel
She is the Attorney General of Michigan and is named as a defendant in the brothers' federal lawsuit.
Barry Croft Jr.
He is one of the convicted individuals involved in the plot who is currently serving time in federal prison.
Adam Fox
He is a convicted participant in the kidnapping plot who is currently serving a sentence in federal prison.
The details
The brothers allege that their involvement in military-style drills and travel to the governor's vacation home led to charges that were drummed up by government informants. They argue that these actions resulted in the destruction of their livelihoods, while other participants were allegedly motivated by COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
Timeline
Summer 2020: Anti-government extremist summit held in Dublin, Ohio.
Late 2020: Kidnapping plot prosecution occurred before the presidential election.
September 15, 2026: Michael and William Null filed their federal lawsuit.
Legal Context
This lawsuit extends the ongoing litigation resulting from the Michigan governor kidnapping plot investigation, which continues to impact regional legal and political discourse. It reflects the broader legal challenges regarding government use of informants in high-profile criminal cases.
The federal lawsuit brings continued scrutiny to the investigative methods used by state and federal agencies in high-profile cases. Residents may see further public reporting on these government tactics as the legal proceedings move forward.
The takeaway
The case underscores the significant legal and personal fallout that occurs when criminal prosecutions end in acquittals. Citizens should monitor how the court system balances state security operations with the rights of defendants.
Further reading
For more context on the legal proceedings and historical background, explore our Terrorism section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Michigan Lawyers Weekly.
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