Louisiana — Federal authorities arrested Micah James Legnon, 28, of New Iberia, Louisiana, on December 13 after a criminal complaint was filed in the Western District of Louisiana charging him with threatening Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.
According to court documents, Legnon — who also used the aliases “Dark Witch” and “Kateri the Witch” — is associated with the Turtle Island Liberation Front (TILF), a far-left group described by federal officials as pro-Palestinian, anti-government, and anti-capitalist. Investigators allege Legnon participated in an online chat known as the “Order of the Black Lotus,” where he discussed training other members in urban warfare tactics and posted threats targeting ICE officers both in the chat and on social media platforms.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi said the arrest reflects the Justice Department’s priority of disrupting domestic extremist networks. “We will continue to aggressively target violent extremist groups like the Turtle Island Liberation Front, hold their proxies accountable, and ensure the American people — and the officers who protect them — can live without fear,” Bondi said.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated that law enforcement will not tolerate threats against officers. Patel noted that Legnon allegedly possessed an assault rifle, body armor, and other tactical equipment when he was stopped by local authorities. “The FBI is steadfast in our commitment to protect the American people and those who wear the badge,” he said.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana described TILF as a threat to public safety and national security, emphasizing heightened vigilance as the one-year anniversary of the New Orleans New Year’s Day terror attack approaches.
Federal investigators reported that Legnon, who has a military background, had been under FBI surveillance on December 12 due to his alleged affiliation with other TILF members who were arrested that same day for plotting to bomb locations in Los Angeles. Agents observed Legnon leaving his residence with what appeared to be an assault rifle and body armor in his vehicle, prompting intervention by the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.
During the arrest, deputies recovered an assault rifle, a pistol, body armor, and a gas canister from Legnon’s vehicle. A subsequent federal search of his residence reportedly uncovered sniper and SWAT training manuals, additional assault-style firearms, and large quantities of ammunition. Authorities stated the investigation remains ongoing.
The case is being investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel, along with the Department of Justice’s National Security Division Counterterrorism Section, is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is an allegation only, and Legnon is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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