Federal agents have apprehended an individual in California for allegedly sending multiple payments to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), as announced by the FBI Los Angeles on Friday.
The accused, Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 28, is facing charges of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which is a felony offense carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Villanueva, a resident of Long Beach and a lawful permanent resident of the Philippines, has been accused of financially supporting and pledging allegiance to a terror group that poses a threat to the United States and its global interests.
Patrick Grandy, Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, stated, “Mr. Villanueva is alleged to have financially supported and pledged his allegiance to a terror group that targets the United States and our interests around the world.”
Thanks to the proactive efforts of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, the FBI, and their partners, Mr. Villanueva was safely apprehended to prevent further support and dissemination of ISIS ideology.
According to an affidavit, Villanueva engaged in conversations with individuals who identified themselves as ISIS fighters on social media. During these interactions, Villanueva expressed his desire to support ISIS by sending money to aid the group’s fighters in their activities. He even expressed his intention to fight for ISIS personally.
Villanueva allegedly mentioned, “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven,” and added, “Someday soon, I’ll be joining.”
During his arrest, the FBI discovered what appeared to be a bomb in Villanueva’s bedroom, as he had previously informed one of the fighters that he possessed a bomb and knives.
Records from Western Union indicate that Villanueva made 12 payments totaling $1,615 over five months to two intermediaries who accessed the funds overseas.
Acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, Bill Essayli, emphasized the seriousness of supporting a terrorist group, whether domestically or internationally, as it poses a significant risk to national security. He affirmed that individuals providing support to enemies will be vigorously pursued and prosecuted.
