TAMPA, FL – A Florida mother is facing federal charges after authorities say she knowingly purchased ammunition and tactical gear to aid her adult son in preparing for what officials describe as a planned act of “mass targeted violence.”
According to an indictment unsealed on May 13, 2025, 43-year-old Lynda Deese of Spring Hill allegedly assisted her son, 22-year-old Gabriel Deese, by buying more than 800 rounds of ammunition, a tactical vest, firearm components, and other combat-style accessories, despite being aware of his intention to carry out a violent attack.
Gabriel Deese, who was previously convicted of a felony and therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition, was arrested in April following an FBI investigation. Court documents allege he expressed his intent to target multiple people in what was described as an ideologically motivated attack.
Coordinated Purchases and Investigation
Federal authorities say the investigation began earlier this year when Deese’s concerning social media posts and encrypted communications flagged interest from the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.
Officials allege that between February and March, Lynda Deese made several purchases for her son using online retailers and local shops, concealing the nature of the transactions.
The gear included rifle magazines, ammunition boxes, and a tactical helmet. Surveillance and shipping records revealed the items were delivered to Gabriel’s residence, despite his ineligibility to receive or own such material.
The FBI stated in its criminal complaint that Lynda Deese was aware her son was planning to “inflict maximum casualties on a pre-identified group of individuals.”
Mother Faces Federal Charges
Lynda Deese has been charged with conspiring to provide material support to commit a federal crime of violence and aiding and abetting the possession of ammunition by a prohibited person.
“These are serious allegations involving not only a violation of federal law but a dangerous breach of trust between a parent and the community,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handley during a press briefing. “We will pursue accountability wherever it is due.”
Deese was arrested without incident at her home and made her initial appearance in federal court in Tampa. She remains in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for next week. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Son’s Alleged Attack Plans
Gabriel Deese, according to the indictment, planned to carry out the attack within the next few months. Agents recovered a detailed notebook outlining the logistics of the planned violence, which included target locations, escape routes, and potential dates.
Law enforcement officials have not publicly disclosed the intended targets, citing the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation. However, sources close to the case say Deese was influenced by extremist online communities and subscribed to anti-government ideologies.
Weapons and tactical gear were seized from his residence following a search warrant executed by the FBI and Hernando County Sheriff’s Office. No firearms were recovered, but officials found weapon components and improvised explosive device (IED) materials.
Legal Ramifications and Public Safety Concerns
Legal experts note that this case highlights the growing concerns of domestic extremism and family-enabled radicalization. “It’s one thing for an individual to harbor violent ideas,” said former federal prosecutor Nina Abrams. “But when a parent becomes an enabler—logistically and financially—it complicates the nature of culpability.”
The FBI has emphasized that early detection and community awareness are crucial in preventing such plots. According to its latest report on domestic terrorism threats, family members and close contacts are often the first line of detection—but they can also, as in this case, become complicit.
Community Reaction
Neighbors expressed shock at the allegations, describing the Deese family as “quiet” and “private.”
“I never would’ve imagined something like this happening on our street,” said Janice Russell, who lives two houses down. “It’s scary to think how close we could have been to something tragic.”
A local school district confirmed that no students or staff were under threat but reiterated that they are cooperating with law enforcement and reviewing safety protocols.
Conclusion
As the legal process unfolds, both Lynda and Gabriel Deese remain under close federal supervision. The case underscores the continuing threats posed by domestic plots and the need for vigilance—even within families. Authorities continue to investigate whether others were involved or aware of the developing plan.
For updates on the case and official legal proceedings, visit the U.S. Department of Justice website.
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