Domestic terrorists... a recent example

[UltraBudgie]

UCE stands for Undercover Employee. They were introduced to him via CHS-1 and CHS-2 (Confidential Human Source) whom the indictment describe as "reliable, paid confidential human source[s] who has previously provided accurate information to the FBI in multiple investigations". So it does seem like Philippi was the only actual conspirator here. The FBI is very adept at catching those who cannot see what glows in the dark, and to be fair those are often dangerously stupid people.

Here are the documents. I find that if I'm tempted to judge the case or the larger question of the FBI's motives and merits, it's best to do so based on official records: https://www.justice.gov/opa/media/1376071/dl