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The FBI has arrested Steven Carlos Duenas, 51, of the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, on federal charges related to alleged threats against JEMS Preschool, a Jewish early-childhood education center affiliated with Chabad of Greater Los Feliz.

According to reports published October 17, Duenas was arrested on October 2 after federal agents searched the home he shared with his mother. The investigation reportedly followed a series of threatening social media posts, including explicit threats against Jewish institutions and references to attacking JEMS.

According to reports citing the federal criminal complaint, Duenas published a series of disturbing messages on the social media platform X on September 19. In one post, he allegedly displayed what appeared to be a Molotov cocktail and encouraged people not merely to watch the war but to participate. Another post featured a glass bottle, while a video showed items investigators reportedly believed were components for an incendiary device.

Other posts included the statement, “Not enough synagogues have been burned down,” as well as a threat suggesting he might bomb JEMS Preschool. He also expressed support for the Houthis.

During the search of the residence, federal agents reportedly found a combination of components they believed had been assembled or intended for use in making a Molotov cocktail. Authorities allege that the online threats and materials were connected to a plan to carry out an attack at the preschool.

Duenas appeared in court following his arrest. According to published reports, he is expected to return to court on November 10.

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