Federal Authorities Arrest Four Defendants in Alleged New Year’s Eve Plot Targeting U.S. Companies

Washington, D.C.; December 17th, 2025

Federal law enforcement authorities have arrested four defendants accused of participating in an alleged anti-capitalist and anti-government plot to carry out bomb attacks against U.S. companies on New Year’s Eve, according to an official announcement released by the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE.

Prosecutors state that the defendants were taken into custody following a federal investigation that uncovered what authorities describe as a coordinated plan to use explosive devices to target private-sector locations during one of the busiest public nights of the year. The arrests were made before any devices were deployed, an outcome federal officials say reflects proactive investigative work rather than chance.

According to the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, the defendants allegedly embraced extremist ideological views rooted in hostility toward capitalism, private industry, and the U.S. government itself; investigators contend that these beliefs motivated discussions, planning, and preparatory actions connected to the proposed attacks. Federal charging documents outline allegations that the defendants discussed targets, timing, and methods consistent with an intent to cause destruction and public fear.

The Department stated that the investigation involved federal agents monitoring communications, collecting evidence, and assessing the credibility of the threat as it developed. Once authorities determined that the alleged plot had progressed beyond rhetoric and into actionable preparation, arrests were authorized to prevent potential loss of life and damage to property.

Prosecutors emphasized that the alleged plan focused specifically on New Year’s Eve, a night marked by large public gatherings, increased travel, and heightened vulnerability, factors that federal authorities say are often exploited by individuals seeking to maximize fear and disruption. The Department did not disclose specific company names or locations, citing public safety and ongoing judicial proceedings.

In court filings, the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE alleges that the defendants’ actions went beyond abstract ideological expression and entered the realm of criminal conspiracy, an important distinction under federal law. Officials reiterated that political beliefs, regardless of how extreme, are not criminal in themselves; however, planning or attempting acts of violence is treated as a serious federal offense.

Federal officials also noted that cases involving domestic extremism are investigated using the same legal standards applied to all criminal conspiracies, with charges evaluated on evidence, intent, and overt acts rather than political labels. The Department made clear that the arrests were based on alleged conduct, not viewpoint alone.

The defendants are expected to appear in federal court, where prosecutors will present evidence supporting the charges. As with all criminal cases, the Department of Justice emphasized that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

In closing its announcement, the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE reaffirmed its commitment to preventing acts of domestic terrorism and protecting the public through early detection, lawful investigation, and prosecution within the bounds of the Constitution.

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Sources

Primary First-Hand Sources

• UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE — Office of Public Affairs official press release announcing the arrests and charges