Los Angeles man arrested on federal charges for threatening Jewish preschool with Molotov cocktails
The FBI arrested 51-year-old Steven Duenas in Los Feliz after prosecutors said he threatened a local Jewish preschool and possessed Molotov-cocktail components.
Federal prosecutors allege that Steven Duenas, 51, plotted a "mass incident" at the Jems Jewish preschool in Los Feliz, using Molotov-cocktail parts he allegedly possessed. The indictment cites multiple X posts in which Duenas displayed a bottle resembling a Molotov cocktail and posted antisemitic slogans, including references to the World Trade Center and threats to burn synagogues. He was arrested on Oct. 2 and appeared in court shackled, with tears streaming down his face.
His mother, Maria Duenas, told reporters that her son had suffered a divorce, lost his LA County job, and struggled with prescription drugs and alcohol, leading to his erratic behavior. She expressed shock at the discovery of incendiary materials in their home and said she hopes he receives help. The FBI conducted a pre-dawn raid on their residence, handcuffing both mother and son.
Why it matters
The case highlights rising antisemitic threats and the role of online radicalization in targeting community institutions.
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