Former Navy SEAL found guilty of attempting to injure police using explosives

Former Navy SEAL Convicted for Transporting Explosives

A former U.S. Navy SEAL, Gregory Vandenberg, was convicted by a federal jury on Friday for transporting explosives with the intent to harm law enforcement during a planned protest in California. The Justice Department reported that Vandenberg, 49, was found guilty after a five-day trial and about three hours of jury deliberation.

Prosecutors detailed that Vandenberg was traveling from El Paso, Texas, to San Diego for the No Kings Day protests set for June 2025. During a stop in New Mexico, he purchased six large mortar fireworks.

While at the store, he informed the clerk that he intended to throw fireworks at police officers during the upcoming protest. He also inquired about the amount of gunpowder in the fireworks, their explosive effects, and potential harm they could cause, according to officials.

Store employees became concerned about Vandenberg’s comments and noted his license plate, eventually contacting law enforcement. He was arrested in Arizona, where federal agents discovered clothing with anti-Semitic symbols, including a T-shirt featuring an al-Qaeda flag.

Additionally, a search of Vandenberg’s cellphone produced messages indicating his anger towards the U.S. government and President Donald Trump, stemming from his beliefs about Israeli influence over the government.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made a statement about the conviction: “The people of this country are free to hold their beliefs and peacefully express them. However, they cannot use explosives to threaten or intimidate others. This case sends a clear message that attempts to substitute violence for expressing opinions will not be tolerated.”