Los Angeles — A man accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at security officers inside a federal building in downtown Los Angeles pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Monday, according to federal officials.
Jose Francisco Jovel, 54, appeared in federal court after prosecutors alleged he carried out a politically motivated attack earlier this month at the Los Angeles Federal Building, located at 300 Los Angeles Street. Authorities say the incident did not result in injuries or property damage, but it prompted a major federal investigation due to the seriousness of the alleged conduct.
Incident Inside the Federal Building
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Jovel arrived at the federal building on December 1 armed with multiple Molotov cocktails. Investigators allege he began shouting anti-ICE statements at contracted protective security officers while standing on an off-property sidewalk.
Officials say Jovel then moved toward the building and allegedly threw two incendiary devices through separate entrances—one through an employee entrance and another through a public entrance. Surveillance and witness accounts reportedly show that he attempted to light an additional device before officers intervened and took him into custody.
Despite the seriousness of the act, DHS officials said the bottles were not ignited and did not catch fire.
Statements From Federal Authorities
In a statement released after the arrest, DHS officials said Jovel made explicit threats during and after the incident.
“The suspect was taken into custody and stated that he wanted to blow up the building and ‘spray down’ all the officers while making more derogatory comments about ICE officers,” the agency said.
Authorities also confirmed that Jovel was found carrying four knives and a Leatherman multi-tool at the time of his arrest.
The U.S. Department of Justice later stated that Jovel himself described the incident as “a terrorist attack.” Prosecutors said he told investigators he was motivated by anger toward the federal government over immigration policies and enforcement actions.
Prosecutors and Officials React
U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California Bill Essayli condemned the alleged attack, warning about the consequences of inflammatory rhetoric directed at federal officers.
“This case exemplifies how misleading and hateful rhetoric against federal law enforcement can and does result in violence,” Essayli said in a statement.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also addressed the incident publicly, expressing relief that no one was injured.
“I am deeply alarmed by the incident that occurred at the Federal Building,” Bass said. “This type of behavior is absolutely unconscionable.”
Additional Allegations Before the Attack
Federal officials later revealed that the federal building incident may not have been an isolated act. Investigators allege that shortly before arriving downtown, Jovel set fire to his Koreatown apartment because he was facing eviction.
The fire occurred in the 100 block of North Westmoreland Avenue, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Fire officials confirmed that no one was injured and the blaze was extinguished without further incident.
Criminal History and Charges
According to federal court records, Jovel has a lengthy criminal history that includes:
- Attempted murder (1987)
- Armed robbery (1991)
- Annoying or molesting a victim under 18 (2007)
In the current case, Jovel is charged with attempted malicious damage of federal property, a serious federal offense. He is being held without bail while the case proceeds.
If convicted, prosecutors say he could face five to 20 years in federal prison, depending on sentencing guidelines and enhancements.
What Comes Next
After entering a not-guilty plea at his arraignment on Monday, Jovel’s next court appearance has been scheduled for February 10. Federal prosecutors are expected to present additional evidence, including surveillance footage and statements made after his arrest.
Authorities say the case underscores ongoing concerns about threats to federal facilities and the importance of security measures designed to prevent mass-casualty incidents.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue to assess the full scope of the alleged actions leading up to the arrest.
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