Fort Lauderdale, Florida – According to recent reports, a man has been accused of plotting to kill a South Florida congressman. The suspect, 41-year-old John Lapinski, was arrested by Margate Police for allegedly targeting U.S. Democratic Rep. Jared Moskowitz (FL-23).
During Lapinski’s court appearance, he was charged with possession of a firearm or ammunition as a convicted felon. The judge stated, “You are charged with possession of a weapon or ammo by a convicted felon. Court finds probable cause.”
Upon searching Lapinski’s home, police discovered a disturbing array of items, including drawings of targeted locations and a list of targeted individuals. In addition to firearms and ammunition, Lapinski was found in possession of body armor, smoke grenades, firearm accessories, and spent shell casings.
Furthermore, investigators uncovered racially derogatory drawings of local schools, parks, and other areas in the Margate/Broward County area. These drawings included offensive names such as ‘Operation Boy(N-word)’, ‘Operation: Coral Spri-(N-word) High School,’ and ‘Operation: James Brown (N-word).’ Additionally, a list of potential targets was found, which included various locations such as Bar Mitzvah halls, a Jewish cemetery, and even U.S. Representative Jared Moskowitz.
Rep. Moskowitz took to social media to address the situation, expressing his shock and concern over the potential threat to his life. He emphasized the need for increased security measures for members of Congress, especially when they are in their home districts.
The news of the plot against Moskowitz has sparked bipartisan support from other members of Congress. Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schulz commented, “My heart goes out to Jared; we are dear friends. The rhetoric has to be toned down. Quite frankly, as a member of Congress, we should not have to be worried about our family’s safety or about our own safety.”
Lapinski is currently being held at the Joseph V. Conte Detention Facility in Pompano Beach on a U.S. Marshals hold. He is expected to appear in court again on Wednesday to face the charges against him.
This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and security measures, especially for public figures like members of Congress. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to combat hate speech and violence in our communities.
