Security Guard at California High School Pleads Guilty to Manufacturing and Selling Bombs
In a startling revelation, a high school security guard in California has admitted to a nefarious operation involving the manufacture and sale of homemade explosives. Angelo Jackson Mendiver, a 27-year-old security guard at Arvin High School located just outside Bakersfield, pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to this illicit activity.
The Discovery and Arrest
The case came to light when federal agents executed a search warrant at Mendiver’s residence, uncovering approximately 500 pounds of explosives and explosive materials. An additional 500 pounds were seized from the residence of an unnamed male juvenile, a Bakersfield high school student, who was allegedly Mendiver’s accomplice in this operation. The two were found to have been conducting their business through an Instagram account, which displayed images and videos of the explosives.
The Charges
Mendiver pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in manufacturing and dealing in explosive materials, as well as mailing explosive devices. Additionally, he admitted to making false statements to FBI agents. The Kern School District, overseeing the high school where Mendiver was employed, has not yet responded to requests for comment on the situation.
Implications and Sentencing
Scheduled for sentencing on April 1, 2024, Mendiver faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each count. The case is a product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Bakersfield Police Department.
This incident raises significant concerns about the safety and security measures in place at schools, highlighting the need for stringent background checks and monitoring of individuals in positions of trust and authority in educational settings.
