Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, a 28-year-old resident of Long Beach, was arrested on Friday for allegedly sending money to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). According to federal prosecutors, Villanueva communicated with two self-identified ISIS fighters through social media, expressing support and a desire to join their cause.
Villanueva, originally from the Philippines and a lawful permanent U.S. resident, is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. This charge carries a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. During his communications, Villanueva allegedly stated, “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven,” and expressed intentions to join ISIS soon.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Villanueva sent 12 payments totaling $1,615 over five months to intermediaries who accessed the funds overseas. During his arrest, the FBI reportedly found what appeared to be a bomb in his bedroom…