Long Beach Man Arrested for Supporting ISIS
A 28-year-old man from Long Beach, California, was taken into custody after being accused of sending money to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and constructing a homemade bomb.
On Wednesday, FBI Director Kash Patel announced that Mark Lorenzo Villanueva was arrested by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force on August 1 for allegedly providing financial support to the terrorist organization.
Villanueva, a permanent resident originally from the Philippines, had his home raided by FBI agents in the 3000 block of Caspian Avenue. Following his arrest, the FBI stated they found evidence linked to explosives.
“The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force arrested a man in Long Beach for allegedly sending money to ISIS and pledging allegiance to a terrorist organization that targets Americans,” Patel mentioned. “We will find and stop anyone who threatens American lives.”
According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Villanueva faces charges for attempting to support a foreign terrorist group, which could lead to a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. Prosecutors detailed that he had shown support for ISIS in online conversations, sent money to individuals he thought were affiliated with the group, and indicated he was prepared to engage in violence.
He even told an ISIS member that he viewed fighting for the group as an honor, expressing, “It’s the best way to go to heaven.” He also mentioned to another member that he had a homemade bomb in his possession. During the arrest, the FBI reportedly recovered what seemed to be a bomb from his room.
In February, Villanueva reached out to an ISIS fighter, inquiring whether his financial support would help cover their gear and weapons, while planning to use an intermediary to send funds. Records indicated that he sent a total of $1,615 in 12 separate payments over five months through Western Union.
Villanueva appeared in federal court, where he was ordered to be held without bail, with his arraignment scheduled for August 15.
Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office Patrick Grandy remarked, “Mr. Villanueva is alleged to have financially supported and pledged his allegiance to a terror group that targets the U.S. and our interests around the world.” He praised the team for safely apprehending Villanueva and disrupting further support for ISIS.
