🚨 Plans for New Orleans Attack Foiled After Former Marine Arrested, Authorities Say
Baton Rouge, Louisiana — Federal authorities say they have stopped a potential attack targeting New Orleans after arresting a former U.S. Marine who was allegedly traveling toward the city with firearms, body armor, and other tactical equipment in his vehicle.
According to court documents, Micah James Legnon, 28, was arrested and charged with making threats in interstate commerce after investigators determined he was allegedly preparing to carry out an attack in New Orleans.
Authorities Say Suspect Was Under Surveillance
Federal officials said Legnon had been under surveillance due to alleged ties to an extremist group described as anti-government and anti-capitalist. Investigators say concerns escalated after Legnon made online statements suggesting violent intent as immigration enforcement activity increased in southeast Louisiana.
Authorities pointed to a December 4 message posted by Legnon in a group chat, in which he allegedly referenced the 1993 Waco siege and suggested it was time to “recreate” a similar confrontation in New Orleans.
Weapons and Gear Recovered
Court records state that days after the online messages, an FBI agent observed Legnon placing a weapon into a vehicle. Shortly afterward, Legnon allegedly posted messages saying he was “on my way” to New Orleans and shared video footage showing a firearm and a bulletproof vest, writing “just in case.”
When Legnon was arrested on December 12, authorities say they recovered an assault rifle, a handgun, a gas canister, and body armor from his vehicle. A subsequent search of his apartment in New Iberia, Louisiana, allegedly uncovered additional firearms, ammunition, sniper training manuals, and SWAT training materials.
Alleged Extremist Connections
Investigators say Legnon is suspected of being associated with the Turtle Island Liberation Front, a group described in court documents as advocating “liberation through decolonization and tribal sovereignty.” Federal authorities characterized the group as far-left, anti-government, and anti-capitalist.
Earlier this month, four alleged members of the same group were arrested in California’s Mojave Desert while authorities say they were rehearsing a plot to detonate multiple pipe bombs across Southern California on New Year’s Eve.
Court documents also allege that members of the group discussed potential future attacks targeting immigration enforcement agents and vehicles.
Heightened Security Concerns in New Orleans
Officials noted that the alleged plot comes amid heightened security concerns in New Orleans following a deadly New Year’s Day attack earlier this year in the city’s French Quarter, when a truck was driven into a crowd, killing 14 people and injuring dozens more.
In that incident, authorities said the attacker had placed multiple explosive devices around the area, though none detonated. Officials later said the attacker was inspired by the Islamic State group.
Legal Status and Ongoing Investigation
As of Tuesday, court records did not list an attorney representing Legnon. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be filed as evidence continues to be reviewed.
Officials emphasized that there is no current threat to the public but urged vigilance as law enforcement continues monitoring extremist activity.