FBI Arrests Gainesville Man Over Alleged Plan to Target Pro-Israel Organization During Hanukkah

(TJV) The FBI has apprehended Forrest Pemberton, a 26-year-old from Gainesville, Florida, on allegations of planning an attack on a pro-Israel lobbying group in South Florida during Hanukkah.

Authorities charged Pemberton with stalking after he traveled from Gainesville to Plantation, Florida, to survey a location previously used by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Unaware that AIPAC had relocated, he scouted the site, according to CBS News.

An affidavit by FBI Special Agent Taylor Nicklin detailed the events leading to his arrest.

Pemberton’s family reported him missing on December 23 after finding a troubling letter in his room expressing anti-authority sentiments and vague threats. The family also noted several firearms were missing, including an AR-15 rifle, a 9mm Luger pistol, and a Galil rifle.

Investigators discovered Pemberton had conducted online research on various organizations, including AIPAC, and explored its website. He then traveled to Plantation, staying near AIPAC’s former office, and admitted to scouting the location with intentions of returning armed.

Surveillance footage and ATM records confirmed his presence in the area. On December 25, law enforcement intercepted Pemberton in Tallahassee, where he was found with three firearms and ammunition.

In interviews, Pemberton revealed frustration with the “status quo” and said he initially planned to harm individuals associated with AIPAC to incite “change.” Although he decided against carrying out the attack, he admitted his original intent was violent.

Court documents show the criminal complaint and related materials were initially sealed to avoid compromising the investigation. The records were made public following his arrest.

Pemberton confessed he considered using the firearms for “criminal intent” but ultimately abandoned his plan, stating he “wasn’t ready” to proceed.