PRESS RELEASE
Execution of Federal Search Warrants
Targeting Domestic Terrorism
Luis S. Fraticelli, Special Agent in Charge, San Juan Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), today announces the execution of six federal search warrants aimed at preventing a potential domestic terrorist attack and the gathering of evidence related to an ongoing domestic terrorism investigation. Investigation by the FBI has revealed that this potential attack, where explosives devices were to be utilized, was directed at privately owned interests in Puerto Rico, as well as the general public.
This morning at approximately 8:00 a.m., special agents of the FBI began executing the six referenced search warrants at a business and five residences located throughout Puerto Rico in the municipalities of San Juan, Trujillo Alto, San German, Mayaguez, Aguadilla, and Isabela.
The FBI is conducting the searches pursuant to search warrants issued by a United States District Judge who determined there is probable cause to believe evidence of criminal activity would be located at these six locations. A search warrant is a legal document giving law enforcement officers authority to search for documents or evidentiary items related to criminal activity. A federal search warrant is only issued after a United States Magistrate or Federal Judge determines there is probable cause to believe evidence of criminal activity will be found at the location to be searched.
Because this is an ongoing federal investigation, the FBI cannot provide specific details regarding any evidence that may have been seized at these locations.
At the conclusion of the search, an incident occurred at one of the locations while members of the FBI were departing. It appears members of the media and the general public attempted to cross the established law enforcement perimeter, and the use of non-lethal force was utilized. This was done in order to protect members of the media, the public and the law enforcement officers executing this lawful search warrant. It should be noted, some FBI personnel were struck by unknown objects which were thrown at them upon their departure. In addition, some damage to FBI vehicles was sustained.
The FBI is sworn to uphold the U.S. Constitution, to include but not limited to, the freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and the right of the people to assemble peacefully.
Finally, the number one priority of the FBI is preventing future acts of terrorism. As a result, the FBI is committed to aggressively investigating all matters related to national security and the safety of the citizens of the United States, to include Puerto Rico.
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