Domestic Extremists Target Soft Spots in Series of Incendiary Attacks, New Jersey Officials Warn
NEW JERSEY – A recent wave of attacks by domestic extremists in the United States highlights a concerning trend toward targeting “soft” public spaces with limited security measures.
The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP) 2023 Threat Assessment reveals a pattern in these attacks, consistent from 2018 to 2022.
On June 30, Brian and Krystal DiPippa from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, were indicted for conspiracy and obstruction of law enforcement. Brian was additionally charged on April 18 with using explosives to commit a federal felony. At the University of Pittsburgh, Brian detonated two homemade smoke bombs in a crowd, while Krystal threw a large firework at police officers, causing injuries. An anarchist extremist flag was found at their residence, indicating their ideological leanings.
In Ohio, Aimenn Penny was arrested on March 31 for attempting to burn down the Community Church of Chesterland using Molotov cocktails. Penny’s act was reportedly in protest against drag queen events scheduled at the church.
Law enforcement discovered a manifesto with ideological statements, Nazi memorabilia, and other items at Penny’s residence, painting a picture of his extremist beliefs.
Nicholas Mucci, a resident of New Jersey, was arrested on March 4 for attacking attendees at an anti-racism concert on January 27 at Trinity Episcopal Parish in Asbury Park, Monmouth County. Mucci reportedly used smoke bombs and pepper spray against the concertgoers while expressing racially motivated slogans. Investigations revealed that Mucci had purchased the smoke bombs in Pennsylvania.
The NJ Department of Homeland Security and Preparedness warns that domestic terrorists can be identified by their Nazi-themed memorabilia and use racist slogans.