San Diego, January 14, 2026
Gregory Vandenberg, a former Navy SEAL, was convicted of transporting explosives intended to harm law enforcement during the ‘No Kings’ protest in San Diego. He purchased fireworks designed to mimic gunfire and was arrested before the event. The trial revealed evidence of extremist beliefs and intentions to use violence against police officials. Vandenberg faces up to 10 years in prison, highlighting serious concerns regarding political dissent and extremism.
San Diego, California
Former Navy SEAL Convicted of Plotting Attack Against Law Enforcement Officers
San Diego, California – A federal jury has convicted Gregory Vandenberg, a former Navy SEAL, of transporting explosives with the intent to harm law enforcement officers during the “No Kings” protest in San Diego on June 14, 2025. Vandenberg, 49, faces up to 10 years in prison, with sentencing pending.
Details of the Conviction
During a five-day trial in Albuquerque, New Mexico, prosecutors presented evidence that Vandenberg traveled from El Paso, Texas, to San Diego, California, to attend the “No Kings” protest. Investigators discovered messages on his phone indicating his belief that the U.S. government was controlled by Israel and the Jewish people. His phone’s home screen displayed an image of the Taliban flag.
FBI agents testified that they found clothing and paraphernalia in Vandenberg’s vehicle with anti-Israel slogans and neo-Nazi symbols, including a flag for the militant group the Caucasian Front.
Purchase of Explosives
On June 12, 2025, Vandenberg stopped at a travel center where he purchased six large mortar fireworks and 72 M-150 firecrackers, designed to sound like gunfire. He informed the store clerk of his intention to use the fireworks against police officers at the upcoming protest.
Arrest and Charges
Store employees alerted authorities, leading to Vandenberg’s arrest on June 13, 2025. He was charged with transportation of explosives with intent to kill or intimidate, and attempted transportation of prohibited fireworks.
Background Context
The “No Kings” protest was a significant event that attracted various groups and individuals. Vandenberg’s actions highlight the potential threats posed by individuals with extremist views attempting to use violence to express political dissent. The conviction underscores the government’s commitment to prosecuting those who plan to use violence to intimidate others.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was Gregory Vandenberg convicted of?
Gregory Vandenberg was convicted of transporting explosives with the intent to harm law enforcement officers during the “No Kings” protest on June 14, 2025. He faces up to 10 years in prison, with sentencing pending.
What evidence was presented during the trial?
Prosecutors presented evidence that Vandenberg traveled from El Paso, Texas, to San Diego, California, to attend the “No Kings” protest. Investigators discovered messages on his phone indicating his belief that the U.S. government was controlled by Israel and the Jewish people. His phone’s home screen displayed an image of the Taliban flag.
What was found in Vandenberg’s vehicle?
FBI agents found clothing and paraphernalia in Vandenberg’s vehicle with anti-Israel slogans and neo-Nazi symbols.
What explosives did Vandenberg purchase?
Vandenberg purchased six large mortar fireworks and 72 M-150 firecrackers, designed to sound like gunfire. He informed the store clerk of his intention to use the fireworks against police officers at the upcoming protest.
What was the outcome of the trial?
Vandenberg was convicted of transportation of explosives with intent to harm or intimidate, and attempted transportation of prohibited fireworks. He was arrested on June 13, 2025.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Gregory Vandenberg, 49, former Navy SEAL |
| Conviction | Transportation of explosives with intent to harm law enforcement officers during the “No Kings” protest on June 14, 2025 |
| Sentencing | Faces up to 10 years in prison, with sentencing pending |
| Evidence Presented | Messages indicating belief that the U.S. government was controlled by Israel and the Jewish people; phone’s home screen displayed an image of the Taliban flag |
| Items Found in Vehicle | Clothing and paraphernalia with anti-Israel slogans and neo-Nazi symbols |
| Explosives Purchased | Six large mortar fireworks and 72 M-150 firecrackers designed to sound like gunfire |
| Arrest | June 13, 2025, at the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base |
| Charges | Transportation of explosives with intent to kill or intimidate; attempted transportation of prohibited fireworks |
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Former Navy SEAL Convicted of Plotting to Harm Police
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
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