Long Beach Man Accused of Sending Money to ISIS, Federal Agents Find Suspected Bomb

Federal Investigation into ISIS Support

• FBI agents targeted a Long Beach home for several days, leading to the arrest of 28-year-old Mark Lorenzo Vioa.
• Vioa is accused of sending money to the terrorist group ISIS and allegedly expressed a desire to become an ISIS fighter himself.

Discovery of Suspected Bomb

• During the raid on Vioa's home, agents found what appeared to be a bomb, wrapped in plastic and tinfoil, in his bedroom.
• Investigators were particularly concerned as Vioa had previously claimed on social media to possess a bomb.
• The device was taken into custody and later determined not to be explosive.

Allegations and Evidence

• The investigation began in February when Vioa allegedly made contact with ISIS members via social media.
• He is accused of sending 12 payments totaling approximately $1600 through Western Union over several months.
• This financial activity and online communication placed him on the federal agents' radar.

Legal Proceedings

• Vioa was taken into custody and faces federal charges.
• The affidavit detailing the investigation was unsealed, revealing the extent of the alleged support and communication.
• Vioa is scheduled for an arraignment in court in a couple of weeks.