January 1, California Man Arrested Over ISIS Payments Allegation

Wyatt’s Take

• FBI stopped a dangerous terror supporter before he could do more harm
• Islamic State still a threat, even inside America’s borders
• Middle America stands strong defending faith and country

Federal agents in California arrested a man after he allegedly sent money and pledged support to ISIS, a group that wants nothing more than to see America fall. The FBI reports Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, a 28-year-old living in Long Beach, tried to send at least a dozen payments to the terrorist group.

This isn’t just about money—it’s about someone inside our own country turning against us. Villanueva, reportedly a lawful permanent resident from the Philippines, now faces charges that could put him in prison for up to 20 years.

FBI’s acting boss in Los Angeles put it plain: “Mr. Villanueva is alleged to have financially supported and pledged his allegiance to a terror group that targets the United States and our interests around the world.” There’s no room for sugar-coating. We’re talking about someone sending money to killers who hate everything America stands for.

The authorities stopped him thanks to dogged work from the FBI and their Joint Terrorism Task Force. As the FBI said, “Thanks to the proactive efforts by the Joint Terrorism Task Force, the FBI and our partners safely arrested Mr. Villanueva today and prevented further support and spreading of ISIS ideology.” Middle Americans can rest a little easier knowing our agencies are still on watch.

The details show Villanueva wasn’t shy about his support. He talked to two people online who said they were ISIS fighters, discussing money and even bragging about wanting to “fight for ISIS himself.” At one point, according to the affidavit, he told one of these men, “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven.” He added, “Someday soon, I’ll be joining.” These are not the words of someone who was confused or tricked. He knew what he was saying and doing.

The FBI also recovered what looked like a bomb right in Villanueva’s bedroom, alongside knives. He told one of the ISIS contacts about having these weapons, proving his intent ran deeper than just words.

By February, Villanueva was openly discussing sending money to pay for “equipment and your weapons,” asking if his cash “would cover” what the fighters needed. Records show he sent $1,615 over five months using Western Union, funneling the funds through overseas go-betweens to help keep his tracks covered.

Bill Essayli, Acting U.S. Attorney in California, warned that supporting terrorism is “a serious risk to our national security.” He promised, “We will aggressively hunt down and prosecute anyone who provides support or comfort to our enemies.” Make no mistake, that’s exactly what most working Americans expect from their leaders.

Wyatt Matters

Stories like this are a reminder that America’s real enemies might not always look like the ones on the TV. They can hide among us, send money to support evil, and threaten the safety of our neighborhoods. It’s why strong borders, careful vetting, and a commitment to American values matter more than ever. If we don’t stay vigilant, our way of life is at risk. We owe it to our families to keep fighting for faith, safety, and country.

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