A chilling plot unfolded in Southern California, culminating in a guilty plea from Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 29, on federal terrorism charges. Villanueva admitted to funneling funds to ISIS fighters and secretly constructing a homemade bomb within his own home, a stark revelation of radicalization within American communities.
The investigation revealed a disturbing digital trail beginning in February 2025. Villanueva initiated contact with individuals claiming to be ISIS fighters in Syria, receiving detailed instructions on how to discreetly transfer money internationally.
Over several months, Villanueva sent over $1,600, believing the funds would directly equip ISIS with weapons, ammunition, and vital supplies for their operations. His commitment extended beyond financial support; he actively discussed potential terrorist acts within the United States.
Investigators discovered Villanueva’s fervent desire to personally join the fight, expressing a chilling belief that martyrdom was the ultimate path to salvation. “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven,” he allegedly wrote, foreshadowing his escalating radicalization.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Villanueva confessed to possessing a fully functional bomb and knives. A subsequent search of his Long Beach residence uncovered a devastating homemade explosive device hidden in his bedroom.
The device was meticulously packed with ball bearings, nails, screws, and other shrapnel, designed to inflict maximum harm. Prosecutors confirmed the bomb qualified as a destructive device under federal law, and Villanueva knew it was illegal for him to possess.
His prior felony conviction for stalking in 2017 already barred him from owning firearms, making his actions a deliberate and dangerous violation of the law. Western Union records meticulously documented twelve separate payments, totaling $1,615, sent to overseas intermediaries over five months.
Villanueva now faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison for providing material support to a terrorist organization, and an additional 15 years for the firearm charge. Sentencing is scheduled for June 17th before U.S. District Judge Anne Hwang.
Authorities emphasize the seriousness of supporting terrorist groups, regardless of location. The case underscores a relentless commitment to identifying and prosecuting individuals who threaten national security and provide aid to enemies of the United States.
The investigation, led by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, successfully disrupted a dangerous plot and prevented further support from reaching ISIS. This case serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing threat of domestic radicalization and the importance of vigilance.
