A Long Beach resident was arrested on federal charges for allegedly sending financial support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a group designated as a foreign terrorist organization. Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 28, faces one count of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, an offense that could result in up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted.
Villanueva, originally from the Philippines and currently a lawful permanent resident in the United States, is scheduled for his first court appearance in Los Angeles federal court.
“Supporting a terrorist group, whether at home or abroad, is a serious risk to our national security,” said Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “We will aggressively hunt down and prosecute anyone who provides support or comfort to our enemies.”
“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,” said Patrick Grandy, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Thanks to the proactive efforts by the Joint Terrorism Task Force, the FBI and our partners safely arrested Mr. Villanueva today and prevented further support and spreading of ISIS ideology.”
Court documents state that Villanueva communicated through social media with two individuals claiming to be ISIS fighters. During these exchanges, he expressed interest in supporting ISIS financially and discussed plans for direct involvement with the group. In messages cited by prosecutors, Villanueva stated his willingness to fight for ISIS: “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven.” He also told another individual about possessing weapons: “Someday soon, I’ll be joining.” Authorities say that during his arrest this morning, agents recovered what appeared to be a bomb from his bedroom.
Records indicate that over five months, Villanueva sent 12 payments totaling $1,615 via Western Union through intermediaries who accessed these funds overseas.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. The prosecution team includes Assistant United States Attorney Colin S. Scott from the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
A criminal complaint contains allegations only; all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
