The suspect is accused of plotting to plant explosives at the Satanic Temple in Salem, Massachusetts, officials said.
Luke Isaac Terpstra, 30, of Michigan, was arrested by the Grant Police Department on Jan. 2 and charged with conspiracy to plant an explosive device in a place of worship. He was charged with possession. According to Salem Police, Terpstra traveled to Salem in November 2023, possibly for planning purposes.
Michigan State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are actively involved in the investigation.
Police said there is no indication Terpstra had local allies in Salem or was acting with an accomplice.
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A Michigan man is accused of plotting to plant explosives at a Satanic temple in Salem, Massachusetts. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)
“The City of Salem and the Salem Police Department are horribly concerned that there are individuals who threaten others or carry out violent attacks based on their personal beliefs, and we are a target of these individuals. We are aware of this,” Salem Police said in a press release. . “On the one hand, we are pleased that our federal government and local partners were able to stop Terpstra, but on the other hand, we are pleased that he invaded our ranks while planning such violence. What he did was horrible.”
“To this end, we continue to have a presence at the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), maintain Explosive Detection Act K9s, participate with partner agencies in the Northeast Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC), and train police officers. “In preparation for such an attack, we are loading our vehicles with additional armor,'' the release continued. “Nonetheless, attacks like the one Terpstra was planning keep us up at night.”
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Luke Isaac Terpstra, 30, was arrested and charged with illegal possession of explosives. (Getty)
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Salem police said they will continue to patrol sensitive locations, investigate criminal activity and work with other law enforcement agencies. The department also emphasized the importance of contacting police if you witness suspicious activity or learn of threats.
Mayor Dominic Pangaro and Police Chief Lucas Miller said, “We believe it is important that the people of Salem recognize this arrest and its connection to our city. Salem is a diverse and vibrant city. We are a full and welcoming community, and the city and Salem Police Department are committed to ensuring the safety of everyone who lives, works or visits our community.” says the release.
