A former campus security supervisor at Arvin High School has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for conspiring to manufacture and sell explosive materials, mailing explosive devices, and lying to FBI agents.
Angelo Jackson Mendiver, 27, used an Instagram account to sell explosives and worked with a juvenile high school student to fulfill orders and ship dangerous devices to buyers in other states. Court documents reveal that Mendiver shared photos and videos of homemade explosives with the student, even cautioning him about the dangers of these volatile substances.
A search of Mendiver’s residence uncovered a shocking 536 pounds of uncontained explosives and explosive materials, posing a significant safety risk to the community. An additional 440 pounds of hazardous materials were found at the juvenile’s home.
“This case highlights the dangers of the illegal manufacturing and distribution of explosives,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert. “Mendiver’s actions not only put himself and others at risk, but also violated the trust placed in him as a school security supervisor.”
In addition to his prison sentence, Mendiver will be subject to further legal consequences for his false statements to FBI agents during the investigation. The juvenile involved in the conspiracy is facing charges in Kern County District Attorney’s Office.
This case is a result of a collaborative investigation by the FBI and the Bakersfield Police Department. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in protecting communities from the dangers of illegal explosives.
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