A Minnesota man is facing the prospect of decades behind bars after federal prosecutors today announced his indictment for allegedly attempting to set fire to a U.S. Army tank in Florida using a Molotov cocktail.
Trang Johnny Nha Phan, 25, was charged in a federal indictment with attempted arson of federal property, possession of a Molotov cocktail as a convicted felon, and the use of a Molotov cocktail in furtherance of a crime of violence, according to a statement released by U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe’s office.
READ: Russia Ramps Up Military Production, Adapting Drones For Protracted War In Ukraine
The indictment alleges that on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2025, Phan launched his incendiary attack against an M-60 A-3 tank, a piece of U.S. Army property. At the time of the alleged incident, authorities noted Phan was already a convicted felon, with prior convictions for threats of violence and possession of three grams or more of heroin, making his possession of the improvised explosive device illegal.
If found guilty on all charges, Phan could be sentenced to a minimum of 35 years and up to 65 years in federal prison. The federal government has also signaled its intent to seize any assets believed to be connected to the alleged crimes.
The case against Phan is highlighted as part of “Operation Take Back America,” a sweeping Department of Justice initiative.
READ: Tampa DUI Mayhem: Pedestrian’s Leg Severed; 3 Arrested After Chaos Erupts On S. Howard
Officials describe this operation as a nationwide effort to combat illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent crime by pooling resources from the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Kehoe’s office emphasized that an indictment is a formal accusation and does not imply guilt. Phan, like all defendants, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
