Texas Man Charged Over Explosives Plot at LA Protests

Grzegorz Vandenberg, a 48-year-old Texas man, was arrested near Tucson, Arizona after allegedly purchasing six mortars containing 60 grams of gunpowder each and 36 large fireworks in New Mexico, intending to use them against law enforcement and government officials during protests in Los Angeles. Authorities say he told store employees he was a former special forces member, could make pipe bombs, and planned to kill officers at the demonstrations. Vandenberg also attempted to recruit a store employee to join him. The store staff reported his comments and license plate to authorities, resulting in his arrest the next day. He is charged with transporting explosives in interstate commerce with intent to kill, injure, or intimidate, facing up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted. Officials stressed that violence against law enforcement will be prosecuted vigorously to protect public safety.