TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) - A man accused of plotting to attack law enforcement during recent protests in California that was arrested in Tucson will not face justice in Arizona.
Grezegorz Vandenberg, who goes by Gregory, has been transferred to New Mexico by U.S. Marshals where he will face charges related to the alleged plot.
A federal judge has sealed the case against Vandenberg, who is accused of purchasing explosive fireworks in New Mexico. According to court documents, he had planned to use these explosives against law enforcement officers and government officials during protests in Los Angeles.
The FBI reports that Vandenberg visited a store in Lordsburg, New Mexico, and requested the largest explosives available. He allegedly told store employees he was former Special Forces and could make pipe bombs. Officials say he purchased six mortars containing 60 grams of gunpowder each and 36 large fireworks.
The criminal complaint states that Vandenberg invited the cashier to join him, claiming his platoon was waiting in California. Suspicious of his behavior, the cashier followed Vandenberg out and provided a vehicle description to the police.
Vandenberg was arrested two weeks ago near the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson. The FBI confirmed he has no ties to the base, and his reasons for stopping in Tucson remain unclear.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said, "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."
Vandenberg now awaits further prosecution in New Mexico. News 4 Tucson will provide updates as more information becomes available.
