Federal law enforcement arrested Gainesville resident Forrest Kendall Pemberton, 26, for stalking a pro-Israel organization in Plantation with the intent to commit violence. 

The stalking occurred from Dec. 22 through Dec. 25 before FBI agents arrested Pemberton with an AR-15 rifle, Luger pistol and Galil rifle. He had eight loaded magazines the first two weapons, according to an FBI affidavit filed Monday in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. 

Pemberton’s family reported him missing on Dec. 23 and supplied internet searches and information on ATM withdrawals. Law enforcement tracked him to a hotel in Plantation, around two miles from the organization he was stalking—reported to be the American Israeli Public Affairs Committee. 

However, then Pemberton moved on Christmas Eve, traveling to a hotel in Tallahassee. 

On Christmas Day, the FBI conducted surveillance at the hotel and spotted Pemberton entering a ride-share vehicle with a soft rifle case. The FBI stopped the vehicle and apprehended Pemberton.  

In a video interview the next day, the affidavit said Pemberton admitted to stalking the pro-Israel organization and planning to commit violence. He also confirmed that a letter left at home was as a goodbye.  

“The letter espoused anti-authority sentiments, stating Pemberton wanted to ‘close the loop,’ ‘stoke the flames,’ and say ‘goodbye’ to his family,” the affidavit said. 

The affidavit also reports that Pemberton said he decided not to go through with criminal action against the organization’s members, saying he gave up.  

The FBI reports that it has probable cause to charge Pemberton for stalking.