FBI Foils Alleged Plot Targeting AIPAC in Florida

[Social Media]

 

The FBI has disrupted an alleged plan to target employees at a Florida office of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), according to court documents filed on Monday. Forrest Kendall Pemberton, the accused, was arrested after traveling to Plantation, Florida, armed with several firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, reportedly intending to scout the location before returning with weapons.  

 

The affidavit, signed by FBI Special Agent Taylor Nicklin, outlines Pemberton’s activities leading up to his arrest. On December 25, the first night of Hanukkah, Pemberton was intercepted in a ride-share vehicle while carrying firearms. Although the court documents do not explicitly name AIPAC, they describe the targeted organization as one that “advocates and lobbies for ‘pro-Israel policies that strengthen and expand the U.S.-Israel relationship,’” language directly associated with AIPAC’s mission.  

 

The case came to light after Pemberton’s father contacted authorities on December 23, reporting that his son had left home and left behind a troubling letter. In the letter, Pemberton expressed intentions to "close the loop," "stoke the flames," and bid farewell to his family. A subsequent investigation revealed that his computer had been used for searches and Google Maps queries related to AIPAC’s former Plantation office, as well as IRS offices.  

 

Pemberton’s movements suggested careful planning. On December 22, he checked into a hotel two miles from AIPAC’s former location and checked out the following day. He was later tracked to a Tallahassee hotel, where he was seen on Christmas Day entering a ride-share vehicle with what appeared to be a soft rifle case.  

 

In conversations with law enforcement, Pemberton admitted he chose AIPAC as his target due to its “political influence” and proximity. Frustrated with the “status quo,” he indicated he had sought to "make a change." However, he claimed he ultimately decided against taking any criminal action.

 

“It would have been a one-way ticket. In Plantation, I decided I wasn’t ready. I gave up,” Pemberton reportedly told police, according to the affidavit.  

 

The case underscores the importance of vigilance in preventing potential acts of violence, particularly against organizations with high political visibility. The FBI’s swift intervention prevented what could have been a devastating attack during a significant holiday period.

 

Based on a report by The Hill 2024-01-03

 

 

 

 

[Watawattana]

Well done to the FBI for stopping this terrorist.  Especially well done to the father; that guy's a hero although he probably won't feel like it just now.

[Yagoda]

27 minutes ago, Watawattana said:

Well done to the FBI for stopping this terrorist.  Especially well done to the father; that guy's a hero although he probably won't feel like it just now.

Dude probably has issues

[Purdey]

He was carrying guns, was he? His gold-darned right under the Constitution?