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In Virginia, an assistant principal at a high school, along with his brother, faces accusations of making violent threats against ICE agents and local law enforcement officers.
Court filings reveal that an off-duty officer from the Norfolk Police Department reportedly overheard John Bennett, the assistant principal at Kempsville High School, and his brother Mark Bennett, discussing such threats at a Virginia Beach dining spot. They allegedly expressed a need to “take action” against ICE agents, whom they accused of “kidnapping individuals,” as reported by WVEC.
The brothers were allegedly overheard by the off-duty officer while dining at a Pho restaurant on November 15.
The criminal complaint notes that Mark Bennett mentioned plans to travel to Las Vegas to convene with “like-minded individuals” and return with “strategies and plans for enforcement.”
John Bennett serves as the assistant principal at Kempsville High School. (Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office/Kempsville High School)
The two brothers were charged with conspiracy to commit malicious wounding.
Mark Bennett also said he recently bought an assault rifle as it can fire rounds that would pierce through body armor, then said he wanted to “go hunting,” according to prosecutors.
Mark Bennett allegedly said he bought the assault rifle because “it utilizes the explosive rounds that are needed to penetrate the vests,” according to WTKR.
John Bennett allegedly expressed support of Mark’s ideas and was interested in going to Las Vegas as well.
Virginia Beach City Public Schools told the news outlet that John Bennett is employed at the school district, where he has worked since 2009. While the school district wouldn’t comment on the allegations, a spokesperson said he is on leave from Kempsville High School.
John Bennett was arrested after allegedly planning violence on ICE agents. (Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office)
Attorneys for the suspects said Mark Bennett went to Las Vegas for a Formula 1 race, where he met up with his two sons. The defense attorneys said Mark Bennett was arrested at the Norfolk International Airport.
Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul W. Neudigate called the allegations “incredibly alarming.”
Mark Bennett allegedly discussed a plan to attack ICE agents. (Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office)
“We are grateful this information was brought to our attention. VBPD was able to work with various law enforcement agencies to assess the credibility of the information, leading to today’s arrests, ensuring the safety of both our law enforcement community and the public at large,” Neudigate said.
The Bennett brothers were granted bond, but can’t talk to each other, cannot have guns, and must stay at their home with a GPS tracker.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Bennett’s attorneys and Virginia Beach City Public Schools for comment.