This archive report was first published on 11 June 2020.
Published on June 11, 2020, a federal investigation has revealed that three men associated with the boogaloo movement attempted to incite violence at protests.
According to court papers, the men, who were armed with rifles and wearing bulletproof vests, attempted to provoke clashes between protesters and police at an initial protest. One of the men allegedly taunted police officers, while another told protesters that peaceful protests were ineffective and that violence was necessary.
When their initial plan failed, the men allegedly plotted to blow up an electric substation along the route of the demonstration in the hope of prompting more violence between police and protesters. They were arrested after preparing Molotov cocktails from gasoline and lemonade bottles before a march.
Stephen T. Parshall, 35, one of the accused, has denied all charges, according to his attorney, Robert M. Drascovich Jr.
The boogaloo movement, which has been associated with numerous protests in recent years, has been linked to racist statements and threats online. Members of the movement often claim to be armed in public to protect Second Amendment rights or local businesses, but online discussions have revealed a more sinister intent.
