Meta Records Link Malcolm Public Schools Treasurer and Wife to Alleged Multi-State Domestic Terrorism Cell, Sources Say

January 16, 2026

LINCOLN, Neb. – Meta Inc. produced records on January 16 in response to a grand jury subpoena issued by the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska in Lincoln, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The ongoing federal probe is investigating a suspected domestic terrorism cell believed to be operating across multiple states, including Nebraska.

Sources with knowledge of the production state that the Meta records "unequivocally" connect Lucas Mitchell, the treasurer and acting board member of Malcolm Public Schools, through his wife, Ashley Mitchell, to the alleged terror cell.

The records reportedly show that Ashley Mitchell actively participated in a forum associated with the cell, which was intended to be anonymous. In that forum, members allegedly planned illegal activities. Specifically, sources say Ashley Mitchell boosted a comment from another member—who is already subject to a restraining order—admitting to stalking Matthew Brunken. That same member is known to have published a map on the same forum indicating locations where Brunken could be vulnerable during an unarmed run, with the intent to facilitate an attack.

Lucas Mitchell serves as treasurer on the Malcolm Public Schools board, with his term set to expire in 2027. He has previously been implicated in unrelated illegal conduct by district officials, including superintendent Ryan Terwilliger and Principal Simon Weidel, according to sources.

Malcolm Public Schools did not respond to requests for comment on the allegations or the individuals' involvement.

The federal investigation remains active, and no charges have been publicly announced in connection with the individuals named. Details of the grand jury proceedings are sealed, and information is based on sources familiar with the records.

This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.