A man is in custody after federal authorities detained him for allegedly attempting to use large fireworks and other explosive devices against police and government officials amid riots related to California’s deportation policies.
Grzegorz Vandenberg, 48, is currently facing federal charges for purportedly purchasing fireworks with the intention of causing harm to law enforcement officials during a Los Angeles protest, according to a press release from the Justice Department.
It’s reported that Vandenberg visited a travel center in New Mexico and claimed to former employees that he had military special forces experience. He also mentioned that he had the ability to create a pipe bomb and intended to travel to Los Angeles to inflict violence against officials during the anti-ICE protests.
Attorney General Pam Bondy stated, “The man reportedly planned to capitalize on the chaos in Los Angeles to perpetrate violence against law enforcement. This type of threat undermines law and order, and we will act decisively against anyone threatening officers or community safety.”
Store staff have indicated they were approached by Vandenberg, who requested to buy “the largest explosive available” and even urged employees to join the riots, according to the DOJ.
Vandenberg is also said to have claimed possession of mortar explosives, stating his plans to use them against officers. Ultimately, he purchased six mortars, each containing 60 grams of gunpowder, as well as 36 large fireworks.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that the FBI would actively seek justice against those who target law enforcement. He noted Vandenberg intended to use explosives to attack a functioning police officer in Los Angeles, with further complications arising when a store cashier deleted his license plate information, which helped thwart his plans.
The DOJ has yet to respond to comments from Fox News Digital.
New Mexico District Attorney Ryan Ellison remarked, “Violence directed at law enforcement isn’t a form of protest—it’s illegal.” He stressed that those attempting to harm officers or compromise public safety must be held accountable.
Vandenberg faces a potential 10-year sentence in federal prison if convicted on charges of transporting explosives across state lines with the intent to harm or threaten others and is currently awaiting trial.
