Man Accused of Throwing Molotov Cocktails at LA Federal Building to be Arraigned

Suspect Arrested for Molotov Cocktail Incident

• 🎯 Jose Francisco Jovel, a 54-year-old man, is facing a felony count for intending to destroy federal property.
• 📍 The incident occurred on December 1st at the federal building in downtown Los Angeles.

Allegations and Evidence

• 💥 Jovel allegedly arrived with multiple bags and a bicycle, and threw two Molotov cocktails through open doors.
• 📹 Surveillance video reportedly shows Jovel attempting to ignite at least one device.
• ⚖️ Federal officers arrested Jovel and found five additional Molotov cocktails and a lighter in his bags.

Suspect's Motives and Statements

• 🗣️ Jovel told officers he was angry over federal immigration policies, referring to the incident as a "terror and terrorist attack."
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 He made statements accusing authorities of separating families, referencing the Department of Homeland Security.
• 🚨 The suspect also stated he wanted to "blow up the building and spray down all the officers" and made derogatory comments about ICE officers.

Outcome of the Incident

• 🔥 Fortunately, the Molotov cocktails were not lit and did not catch fire.
• 🩹 There were no injuries or damage to federal property.
• 🏛️ Law enforcement evacuated part of the building and shut down Los Angeles Street during the scene securement.