LOS ANGELES – Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 28, of Long Beach, is facing federal charges after allegedly funneling $1,615 to suspected Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorists over a five-month period. The Department of Justice announced Villanueva’s arrest today, alleging he attempted to provide material support to the designated foreign terrorist organization – a felony carrying a potential 20-year federal prison sentence.
According to court documents, Villanueva, a lawful permanent resident from the Philippines, engaged in online communications with individuals claiming to be ISIS fighters. These weren’t idle chats; the affidavit details discussions where Villanueva openly expressed his desire to support ISIS financially and even personally join their ranks. He allegedly told one contact, “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven,” and vowed, “Someday soon, I’ll be joining.” Disturbingly, he also claimed to possess a bomb and knives.
“Supporting a terrorist group, whether at home or abroad, is a serious risk to our national security,” stated Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “We will aggressively hunt down and prosecute anyone who provides support or comfort to our enemies.” The investigation, spearheaded by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, revealed Villanueva offered to send money to equip the ISIS fighters, specifically asking if the funds would “cover your equipment and your weapons.” He then followed through, sending 12 payments through Western Union to intermediaries who accessed the money overseas.
The feds weren’t just tracking the money. During the arrest this morning, authorities reportedly recovered what appeared to be a bomb from Villanueva’s bedroom. While details on the device are scarce, its presence raises serious questions about the extent of Villanueva’s commitment to ISIS and his potential for escalating his actions. Patrick Grandy, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, emphasized that the proactive efforts of the task force “safely arrested Mr. Villanueva today and prevented further support and spreading of ISIS ideology.”
Villanueva is scheduled to make his initial appearance in United States District Court in Los Angeles today. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty, but the evidence presented thus far paints a grim picture of a man allegedly dedicated to funding and potentially joining a notorious terrorist organization. Assistant United States Attorney Colin S. Scott, along with Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman, are prosecuting the case, signaling the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating this threat.
This case underscores the ongoing concern of domestic radicalization and the ease with which individuals can attempt to support terrorist groups through online communications and financial transactions. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force continues to investigate, and further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses. Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.
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Key Facts
- State: California
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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