A former Arvin High School employee has been sentenced to two years in prison after conspiring to manufacture, and deal in explosive materials, as well as for making false statements to FBI agents. Angelo Jackson Mendiver, 27, of Bakersfield, who had previously served as a campus security supervisor, entered the illicit trade of explosives using social media as a platform for his hazardous ventures, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Mendiver used an Instagram account to communicate with a minor and sell explosives. Documents revealed that he worked with a juvenile, from a Bakersfield high school, to mail these illegal items to recipients in other states. The investigation culminated on June 1, 2023, when authorities executed a federal search warrant at Mendiver's residence and discovered a substantial amount of dangerous materials.
During the raid, investigators retrieved 536 pounds of uncontained explosives and materials from Mendiver's home. A coordinated search at the minor co-conspirator's home later led to the seizure of another 440 pounds of similar substances.The stockpile between the two residences not only highlighted the scale of their operation but also signified a dire risk to public safety. In his communications with the juvenile, Mendiver blatantly admitted the dangers of their operation, cautioning that "homemade kills all consumer" and to be "super careful bro that homemade shit is dangerous," as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Mendiver maintained his innocence during the federal investigation, falsely telling FBI agents that he had no involvement in the sale of explosives, or in any related offenses. However, evidence including Instagram messages and seized explosive devices contradicted his claims. While Mendiver faces the consequences of his actions, the juvenile's case is currently being dealt with by the Kern County District Attorney’s Office. The FBI, with the aid of the Bakersfield Police Department, spearheaded the meticulous investigation leading to these arrests and sentencing. The case itself was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar.
