PRES. TRUMP AWARDED INAUGURAL FIFA PEACE PRIZE AT WORLD CUP DRAW IN WASHINGTON . (PHOTOS).
Federal authorities announced Wednesday the arrest of two Virginia brothers, including a high school assistant principal, accused of plotting attacks on police and immigration officers.
John Bennett, 44, who worked at Kempsville High School in Virginia Beach, and his brother Mark Bennett, 48, were taken into custody Nov. 19—John in Virginia Beach and Mark at Norfolk International Airport, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The investigation began Nov. 17 after an off-duty Norfolk police officer reportedly overheard the brothers discussing plans to kill law enforcement officers, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.
Authorities said Mark Bennett was overheard planning to meet like-minded individuals in Las Vegas to acquire firearms with explosive rounds. He was arrested while attempting to board a flight to Charlotte, N.C., a stop en route to the alleged Las Vegas meeting. DHS officials said the brothers had discussed obtaining a high-caliber rifle capable of penetrating bullet-resistant vests.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin described the plot as “chilling,” noting the involvement of a school educator. The arrests come amid a nationwide increase in U.S. immigration enforcement operations and rising incidents of attacks on ICE agents. DHS statistics indicate 238 reported assaults on ICE personnel this year, up 19 from the same period last year.
McLaughlin also criticized political rhetoric from local leaders, saying it contributes to threats against law enforcement. “Sanctuary politicians need to tone the rhetoric down before a law enforcement officer is killed,” she said, referencing incidents in which officers have been attacked with Molotov cocktails, rocks, and vehicles.
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