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NewsNoticias Tampa Bay (Univision)August 1, 2026Hillsborough

Ex-Navy SEAL convicted of plotting explosives attack on police

A federal jury convicted Gregory Vandenberg, a former Navy SEAL, for transporting explosives with the intent to attack police officers during a 2025 protest in California. Authorities arrested him after store employees reported his comments about using fireworks as weapons.

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Why It Matters

The conviction results in a federal criminal record and a mandatory one-year period of for the defendant following his prison sentence.

Key Facts

  • Gregory Vandenberg was found guilty of transporting explosives with the intent to kill, injure, or intimidate.
  • The defendant was convicted of attempting to transport prohibited fireworks into California.
  • The planned attack was intended for the 'No Kings Day' protests scheduled for June 14, 2025.
  • Vandenberg purchased six large mortar fireworks and 72 M-150 firecrackers on June 12, 2025.
  • The defendant was arrested on June 13, 2025, at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona.
  • Vandenberg faces a mandatory one-year term of supervised release following his prison sentence.
  • Evidence included extremist, antisemitic, and anti-Israeli symbols found in the defendant's vehicle and phone.
  • The investigation was conducted by the FBI with support from Homeland Security Investigations.

Who's Mentioned

personGregory Vandenberg“Defendant and former Navy SEAL convicted of transporting explosives.”locationAlbuquerque“Location of the court proceedings.”organizationFBI“Lead investigative agency.”locationDavis-Monthan Air Force Base“Location where the defendant was arrested.”organizationHomeland Security Investigations“Assisted in the investigation.”locationLordsburg“Location where explosives were purchased.”