A Texas man has been federally charged after allegedly buying powerful explosives in New Mexico with the intent to harm law enforcement officers and government officials during anticipated riots in Los Angeles, California.
Grzegorz Vandenberg, 48, was arrested following a transaction on June 12, 2025, at a travel center in Lordsburg, New Mexico.
Alleged Plot to Use Explosives Against Law Enforcement
According to court documents, Vandenberg sought help from store employees in selecting fireworks that could be used to cause harm. He allegedly claimed to be a former special forces military member and stated he was capable of constructing pipe bombs.
Vandenberg reportedly told the staff that he was heading to Los Angeles specifically to participate in riots, with the goal of killing law enforcement officers or government officials. He also boasted that he already had mortar explosives in his possession and reiterated his plan to use them at the riots.
Store employees were reportedly disturbed by Vandenberg’s statements. He had requested the largest available explosives and even invited an employee to join him and his “platoon” in California.
In total, Vandenberg purchased six mortars containing 60 grams of gunpowder each and 36 large fireworks. He left the store in a vehicle with Montana license plates, heading west on Interstate 10.
Quick Action by Store Employee Leads to Arrest
A vigilant cashier, alarmed by Vandenberg’s threats, took down the vehicle’s license plate number, which ultimately played a critical role in the investigation and his subsequent arrest. The information provided by the cashier led authorities to locate and apprehend Vandenberg.
Federal Charges and Law Enforcement Response
Vandenberg is facing charges of transporting explosives across state lines with the intent to use them to kill, injure, or intimidate individuals. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned Vandenberg’s alleged actions, saying, “This man allegedly intended to use the chaotic riots in Los Angeles as an opportunity to commit deadly violence against law enforcement officers.
Threats like these strike at the heart of law and order — we will not hesitate to bring federal charges against anyone who seeks to harm law enforcement or endanger the safety of our communities.”
FBI Director Kash Patel also responded, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to tracking down individuals who threaten law enforcement: “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.”
A Strong Message from Law Enforcement
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico added, “Targeting law enforcement with violence is not protest – it’s a crime. Anyone who attempts to harm officers or undermine public safety will be held accountable.
Protecting the safety of our communities and upholding the integrity of lawful demonstrations are priorities, and those who cross the line into violence will be prosecuted swiftly and to the fullest extent of the law.”
The case was investigated by the Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, with help from the Tucson Resident Agency of the FBI’s Phoenix Field Office, Tucson Police Department, U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso.
Grzegorz Vandenberg’s arrest highlights the serious threat of individuals seeking to use violence during civil unrest. His federal charges underscore the commitment of law enforcement agencies to prevent harm and protect the safety of both officers and the general public. Vandenberg remains in custody, with a trial date yet to be scheduled.
