A Long Beach resident was arrested on federal charges for allegedly sending a dozen payments to individuals linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California.
Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 28, faces one count of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison.
Villanueva, who holds lawful permanent residency from the Philippines, is expected to appear in United States District Court in Los Angeles.
“Supporting a terrorist group, whether at home or abroad, is a serious risk to our national security,” said Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “We will aggressively hunt down and prosecute anyone who provides support or comfort to our enemies.”
“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,” said Patrick Grandy, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office. “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.”
According to court documents, Villanueva used social media platforms to communicate with two people who identified themselves as ISIS fighters. During these exchanges, he expressed his desire to assist ISIS financially and indicated an interest in joining their activities.
Investigators allege that Villanueva told one contact it would be “an honor” to fight for ISIS and discussed plans for future involvement: “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to go to heaven.” He also stated: “Someday soon, I’ll be joining.” In another message, he claimed possession of weapons including a bomb and knives. Authorities reported finding what appeared to be a bomb during his arrest at his residence.
In February 2025 communications with one purported ISIS fighter, Villanueva offered financial assistance intended for equipment or weapons purchases and coordinated transfers through intermediaries.
Records from Western Union show that over five months Villanueva sent 12 payments totaling $1,615 via two intermediaries overseas.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation into this case.
Assistant United States Attorney Colin S. Scott from the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section is prosecuting alongside Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
A criminal complaint includes allegations; defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
