Federal law enforcement officials announced that they have prevented an alleged domestic terror plot targeting commercial facilities in Southern California ahead of New Year’s Eve, following the arrest of four individuals accused of planning coordinated explosive attacks.
According to authorities, the suspects were taken into custody on December 12 in a desert area of San Bernardino County while allegedly preparing materials related to the planned operation. Officials said the arrests occurred without resistance and no explosives were detonated.
Suspects Taken Into Custody
The four individuals, ranging in age from their mid-20s to early 40s, face federal charges including conspiracy and possession of illegal explosive components.
The legal filing identifies four individuals facing charges: Dante Gaffield, 24; Audrey Illeene Carroll, 30; Zachary Aaron Page, 32 and Tina Lai, 41.
Investigators stated that the group was under surveillance after information surfaced suggesting preparations for violent acts. Court proceedings began earlier this week, and prosecutors indicated that additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.
Law enforcement officials have not disclosed whether the suspects have retained legal counsel.
Alleged Plan Targeted Business Facilities
Court documents describe a plan that allegedly called for placing explosive devices at multiple commercial locations across Los Angeles and Orange counties. The attacks were reportedly intended to occur simultaneously around midnight on December 31, a time investigators believe was chosen to blend potential explosions with celebratory fireworks.
Officials said the alleged targets were large business facilities involved in regional logistics and distribution. No specific companies were publicly identified.
Investigation and Seized Materials
During searches conducted at the arrest location and associated residences, investigators recovered various materials commonly used in improvised explosive devices, including pipes, chemical powders, and ignition components. Federal bomb technicians assessed that the items could have been assembled into functional explosive or incendiary devices.
Authorities emphasized that the operation was disrupted before any completed device was constructed.
Extremist Ideology Under Review
Federal investigators stated that the suspects were allegedly connected to a small extremist group that promotes anti-government and anti-capitalist views. Officials said online activity linked to the group contained violent rhetoric and rejected peaceful political action.
The FBI confirmed that the investigation involved confidential sources and months of monitoring, including encrypted communications allegedly used by the group to share plans.
Officials Praise Interagency Coordination
Speaking at a press briefing, federal prosecutors and law enforcement leaders credited coordination between federal and local agencies for preventing potential harm.
“This case highlights the importance of early detection and cooperation across agencies to protect public safety,” an FBI official said. “No community was harmed because the threat was identified and addressed before it could be carried out.”
Authorities reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and urged the public to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
