Long Beach, California, January 29, 2026
Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, a Long Beach resident, has pleaded guilty to charges of supporting ISIS and possessing a homemade bomb. His actions included transferring over $1,600 to individuals he believed were ISIS members and illegal possession of a firearm. This case illustrates the serious consequences of engaging with terrorist organizations and poses a significant threat to public safety.
Long Beach Man Pleads Guilty to Supporting ISIS and Possessing Homemade Bomb
Long Beach, California – Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, a 29-year-old resident of Long Beach, has pleaded guilty to federal charges of attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charges stem from his communications with individuals he believed to be ISIS members and the discovery of a homemade explosive device in his residence.
Details of the Case
In February 2025, Villanueva initiated contact via social media with individuals claiming to be ISIS fighters located in Syria. During these interactions, he discussed his desire to support the organization and offered to send financial assistance. Villanueva transferred over $1,600, believing that the funds would support the purchase of ammunition, weapons, and other supplies for ISIS operations. He also engaged in discussions about conducting ISIS-related activities within the United States.
In August 2025, law enforcement authorities executed a search warrant at Villanueva’s residence, which resulted in the seizure of a homemade bomb containing a substantial quantity of ball bearings, nails, screws, and other metal objects. This device was unregistered, violating federal regulations. At the time of the search, Villanueva was already prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction for stalking in 2017.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentencing
Villanueva has been in federal custody since his arrest in August 2025 and has pleaded guilty to charges related to material support for a foreign terrorist organization and firearm possession as a felon. Sentencing is scheduled for June 17, 2026, and he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years for attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and up to 15 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Background on the Charges
The charge of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization is a serious federal offense, highlighting the government’s commitment to countering terrorism-related activities. Possessing an unregistered firearm, especially an improvised explosive device, illustrates the dangers presented by individuals engaging in violent extremism. Villanueva’s prior felony conviction reinforces the critical nature of adhering to federal and state regulations concerning firearm ownership.
Implications and Community Impact
This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to detect and prevent domestic support for foreign terrorist organizations. The discovery of the homemade bomb emphasizes the potential threats posed by individuals aiming to engage in violent activities in the United States. Community vigilance, alongside cooperation with authorities, is essential for ensuring public safety and national security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges did Mark Lorenzo Villanueva plead guilty to?
Mark Lorenzo Villanueva pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
When did Villanueva initiate contact with individuals claiming to be ISIS members?
Villanueva began communicating with individuals he believed to be ISIS fighters in February 2025.
What was discovered during the search of Villanueva’s residence?
During the search, law enforcement authorities found a homemade bomb containing ball bearings, nails, screws, and other metal objects. The device was not federally registered.
What was Villanueva’s prior criminal history?
Villanueva had a prior felony conviction for stalking in 2017, which legally prohibited him from possessing firearms.
When is Villanueva’s sentencing scheduled?
Sentencing is scheduled for June 17, 2026. Villanueva faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and up to 15 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 29, Long Beach resident |
| Charges | Attempting to provide material support to ISIS; felon in possession of a firearm |
| Communication | Initiated contact with individuals claiming to be ISIS fighters in February 2025 |
| Financial Support | Transferred over $1,600 for ISIS operations |
| Discovery | Homemade bomb found in residence during August 2025 search |
| Prior Conviction | Felony stalking conviction in 2017; prohibited from possessing firearms |
| Sentencing Date | June 17, 2026 |
| Potential Sentence | Up to 20 years for material support; up to 15 years for firearm possession |
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