A former Navy SEAL has been convicted of federal crimes after authorities say he plotted to injure law enforcement officers with fireworks at a protest in San Diego. Gregory Vandenberg, 49, faces up to 10 years in prison following a five-day jury trial.
Extremist Beliefs and Planned Attack
Prosecutors presented evidence showing Vandenberg planned to travel from El Paso to San Diego to deploy fireworks at a “No Kings” protest on June 14. FBI agents discovered messages on Vandenberg’s phone revealing his discontent with President Trump and a belief that the U.S. government is controlled by Israel and Jewish people, according to the Department of Justice.
Prior to his arrest, Vandenberg purchased the fireworks and allegedly told a store clerk he intended to harm law enforcement. He also reportedly solicited the clerk’s participation in the planned attack. Vandenberg, who was unemployed and living in his car, claimed to have expertise with explosives due to his prior military experience.
Evidence of Extremism
A search of Vandenberg’s vehicle revealed a disturbing array of symbols and messages indicative of extremist ideologies. Authorities found T-shirts displaying a neo-Nazi symbol, a flag associated with the Caucasian Front, and an Al Qaeda flag. A Latin message reading “Judea must be destroyed” was also discovered. He was also wearing a T-shirt with the word “Amalek” – a term with historical significance as the enemy of the Israelites – which he stated he designed to mean “destroyer of Jews.” His phone’s home screen displayed an image of the Taliban flag.
Vandenberg was apprehended on June 13 while sleeping in his car at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. He initially told agents he was traveling for work and visiting friends in Phoenix, despite being unemployed.
Looking Ahead
Vandenberg remains in custody awaiting sentencing. Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison stated the verdict demonstrates that attempts to use violence to express political beliefs will face federal consequences. It is likely that prosecutors will seek the maximum sentence allowed by law, given the severity of the planned attack and the evidence of extremist motivations. A sentencing date has not yet been announced. It is also possible that further investigation will reveal additional details about Vandenberg’s connections or potential co-conspirators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges was Vandenberg convicted of?
Vandenberg was convicted of transportation of explosives with intent to kill, injure or intimidate and attempted transportation of prohibited fireworks into California.
Where was Vandenberg planning to carry out the attack?
Vandenberg was planning to unleash harmful fireworks at a “No Kings” protest in San Diego, California.
What evidence linked Vandenberg to extremist ideologies?
Authorities found clothing with neo-Nazi symbols, flags associated with the Caucasian Front and Al Qaeda, and a message stating “Judea must be destroyed” in Vandenberg’s vehicle, as well as extremist imagery on his phone.
How do individuals radicalize and what factors contribute to violent extremism?
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