A San Fernando Valley man named Ryan Scott Bradford has been charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and being in possession of ammunition as a felon. The charges come after Bradford’s arrest at his residence in Reseda, and he is expected to appear in court today.
According to the complaint, Bradford posted online messages and photos from 2021 to January 2023 that showcased his use of a 3-D printer to create firearms. He also expressed a desire to commit mass murder against Jews in these online posts.
During a search of Bradford’s home, law enforcement officials found a significant amount of evidence. This evidence included 116 rounds of ammunition, which Bradford is prohibited from possessing due to a previous burglary conviction in 2012. They also discovered firearms parts, including two 3D printed auto sears and five “switches” used to convert semi-automatic firearms into fully-automatic firearms. Additionally, two 3D printers with swastikas painted on one of them, Nazi propaganda, and an apparent improvised explosive device (IED) were found. Due to the discovery of the IED, the surrounding streets were temporarily closed as a safety precaution.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “The potential danger to the community cannot be overstated. We will continue to investigate this matter to ensure that this defendant is held accountable for his crimes, and to keep our community safe from acts of violence motivated by racist and hateful ideology.”
The FBI’s Assistant Director in Charge of the Los Angeles Field Office, Donald Alway, described Bradford as a self-proclaimed anti-Semite affiliated with a white supremacist group that promotes hatred towards Jews and other minorities. Alway warned that individuals who engage in hateful rhetoric that crosses the line into violence will be held accountable for their actions.
DEA Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Bill Bodner highlighted the importance of collaborating with local and federal partners in combating the distribution of synthetic drugs like methamphetamine. He applauded the interagency efforts that led to the prevention of further violence and harm in the community.
Los Angeles Police Chief Michel R. Moore expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership between the LAPD, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in their pursuit of disrupting gun trafficking. Chief Moore acknowledged the devastating impact that firearms have on communities and underscored the commitment to ensuring public safety.
The complaint also included details from an affidavit that discussed Bradford’s association with a racially motivated violent extremist group known as the San Fernando Valley Peckerwoods. The Peckerwoods have a history of engaging in racially motivated violence, drug and illegal firearms trafficking, and fraud, primarily originating from within the California state prison system.
Additional evidence from the affidavit revealed Bradford’s online presence using usernames associated with the Peckerwoods. He used messaging applications such as Telegram to post racist remarks against Jewish individuals, including calls for mass murder and genocide. A handwritten note stating, “New Year’s Resolution: Take over the world – save Aryan race *Bake every single Jew.*” was found on a calendar recovered from Bradford’s residence. The complaint also stated that Bradford shared links and instruction manuals on Telegram regarding hand grenades, biological warfare, and the “Aryan Revolution.” He even offered to produce firearms and firearm parts for others using 3-D printers.
Moreover, the complaint mentioned that Bradford had sent text messages coordinating the distribution of methamphetamine and even sent photos of the illicit substance to potential buyers. He allegedly conspired with Kris Dean Drakakis, another member of the Peckerwoods, who was indicted on charges related to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and being a felon in possession of ammunition. Drakakis has pleaded not guilty to these charges and has a trial date scheduled for August 22.
In conclusion, the arrest of Ryan Scott Bradford and the subsequent charges he faces highlight the danger posed by racially motivated violent extremists and their potential for causing harm to communities. Law enforcement agencies and federal authorities are committed to ensuring public safety and holding individuals accountable for their crimes. The collaborative efforts between the FBI, DEA, LAPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office demonstrate the dedication to disrupting illegal activities and protecting the well-being of society as a whole.
