FBI Prevents Potential Attack on AIPAC Office in Florida
Plantation – Federal authorities arrested a man accused of planning an attack on employees of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) at its former Florida office, according to court documents filed Monday.
Forrest Kendall Pemberton was taken into custody on December 25 after allegedly traveling to Plantation armed with several firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, in a ride-share vehicle. He reportedly intended to scout the site in preparation for a possible attack.
The Investigation
The FBI began investigating Pemberton after his father contacted law enforcement on December 23. Pemberton had left home, leaving behind a troubling letter that alluded to his intent to “close the loop,” “stoke the flames,” and bid “goodbye” to his family.
According to the affidavit, Pemberton conducted internet searches for AIPAC’s former Plantation office, as well as locations associated with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). He checked into a hotel near the site on December 22 before checking out the next day. By December 25, he was traced to a Tallahassee hotel and later seen boarding a ride-share vehicle carrying what appeared to be a rifle case.
Court filings reveal that Pemberton told investigators he selected AIPAC as his target due to its “political influence” and proximity. He expressed frustration with the “status quo” and claimed he wanted to see if he “could make a change.”
Stopped in Time
Pemberton reportedly decided against following through with any violent action. “It would have been a one-way ticket,” he said during questioning. “In Plantation, I decided I wasn’t ready. I gave up.”
Despite this claim, his intent to scout the area while armed prompted immediate action by federal agents. FBI Special Agent Taylor Nicklin confirmed in the affidavit that Pemberton was intercepted before any harm could occur.
A Broader Context
While the court documents do not explicitly name AIPAC as the target, they describe the organization as one that “advocates and lobbies for pro-Israel policies that strengthen and expand the U.S.-Israel relationship,” mirroring language from AIPAC’s mission statement.
The attempted attack took place on the first night of Hanukkah, a detail underscoring the potential gravity of the situation.
Charges and Next Steps
Pemberton faces federal charges for his actions. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed additional details about potential motives or whether others were involved.
Law enforcement officials praised the swift response of the FBI and the cooperation of Pemberton’s family, which they say was instrumental in preventing what could have been a tragic incident.
AIPAC has yet to release a public statement on the matter. The organization remains a prominent advocate for U.S.-Israel relations, with offices across the country.
This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats faced by political and advocacy organizations and the critical importance of vigilance and timely intervention.
