by Virginia Beach, VA — Two brothers — including a high school assistant principal — have been arrested after federal officials say they plotted to kill police officers and ICE agents, a scheme uncovered when an off-duty police officer overheard their disturbing conversation in a Virginia Beach restaurant.
According to federal authorities, John Bennett, an assistant principal at Kempsville High School, and his brother Mark Bennett were taken into custody after an officer reported hearing them discuss plans to target law enforcement. The alleged conversation took place on November 17, and according to a criminal complaint, the officer heard the men speaking about ICE agents “kidnapping individuals” and their belief that they needed to “do something about it.”
Federal Officials Say Firearms With Explosive Rounds Were Part of the Plan
A statement issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) alleges that Mark Bennett, — who was reportedly preparing to travel to Las Vegas — had been planning to purchase firearms loaded with explosive rounds for attacks against federal agents.
According to DHS, Mark intended to meet with “like-minded people” in Las Vegas who could help him develop “enforcement ideas and plans” for carrying out violent attacks.
He was arrested on November 19 at Norfolk International Airport, where he was preparing to board a flight to Las Vegas, Nevada — a city authorities believe he viewed as a meeting hub for individuals sharing his anti-law-enforcement motives.
Assistant Principal Placed on Leave After Arrest
John Bennett, who served as assistant principal at Kempsville High School, was arrested in Virginia Beach shortly after his brother and was placed on administrative leave by the school district. Officials have not disclosed whether any students or school staff were ever at risk.
Both brothers have been charged with one count of conspiracy to commit malicious wounding, according to the federal criminal complaint.
Officials: Plot Included Rifles Capable of Piercing Bulletproof Vests
The allegations outlined by federal officials paint a chilling picture. Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of DHS, said the brothers not only discussed violent attacks but had detailed plans to secure high-caliber rifles capable of piercing law enforcement bulletproof vests.
McLaughlin condemned the plot in a strong statement:
“It’s chilling that a human being, much less a child educator, would plot to ambush and kill ICE law enforcement officers. Thanks to Homeland Security Investigations and our partners, these men are behind bars.”
Police Chief: Threat Was ‘Incredibly Alarming’
Paul Neudigate, Chief of the Virginia Beach Police Department, said his department worked quickly with federal partners to determine the credibility of the threat.
“VBPD was able to work with various law enforcement agencies to assess the credibility of the information, leading to today’s arrests and ensuring the safety of both our law enforcement community and the public at large,” Neudigate said.
Officials have not announced whether additional charges will be filed as the investigation continues.
Arrests Come Amid National Tensions Over Immigration Enforcement
The arrests coincided with ongoing political tension surrounding immigration enforcement. Former President Donald Trump has recently escalated federal support for ICE, deploying National Guard troops to cities like Los Angeles and Portland. After two National Guard members were shot in Washington, D.C., Trump vowed to “permanently pause migration from all third world countries.”
Investigators have not yet publicly linked the Bennetts’ alleged plot to broader national rhetoric, but authorities note that anti-ICE sentiment played a central role in the brothers’ conversations.
What Happens Next?
Both defendants remain in custody as the federal investigation continues. School officials have announced that John Bennett’s duties will remain suspended pending the outcome of the criminal case.
How should schools and communities respond when educators are accused of violent plots? Share your thoughts in the comments — join the conversation in the comment section.
