Man Charged After Alleged Plot to Attack Law Enforcement in California

LORDSBURG, N.M. — A Texas man is facing federal charges after allegedly purchasing explosives in New Mexico and expressing intent to use them to target law enforcement officers and government officials in Los Angeles.

According to court documents, 48-year-old Grzegorz Vandenberg visited a travel center in Lordsburg on Thursday, June 12, 2025, where he requested assistance in selecting fireworks that could be thrown at people to cause harm. During the transaction, Vandenberg claimed to be prior special forces military and said he could manufacture pipe bombs. He stated his destination was Los Angeles, California, where he planned to join riots and kill officers or government officials.

Store employees reported that Vandenberg sought out the largest available explosives and claimed to have mortars already in his possession. He invited one of the employees to join him and a so-called “platoon” he said was waiting in California. He ultimately purchased six mortar shells—each containing 60 grams of gunpowder—and 36 large fireworks before departing the store in a vehicle, heading west towards Arizona on Interstate 10.

The interaction prompted the store staff to alert authorities and provide identifying information, including the vehicle’s license plate. That report led to Vandenberg’s arrest and a federal criminal complaint.

Vandenberg is now charged with transporting explosives in interstate commerce with the knowledge and intent that they would be used to kill, injure, or intimidate others. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. A trial date has not been scheduled.

“Our message is clear: If you come after law enforcement officers, the FBI will spare no effort to find you and bring you to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This defendant allegedly intended to use explosives to attack police officers currently conducting law enforcement operations in Los Angeles and – with the help of a store cashier who took down his license plate information - we were able to put a stop to that plan. Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to serve the American people and the FBI will always do our part to protect them.”