San Bernardino shooter's friend arrested in connection to massacre

Police tape around the Inland Regional Center. — (Image credit: Getty Images)

Federal prosecutors have arrested the friend and former neighbor of one of the alleged San Bernardino shooters on criminal charges in connection with the December 2 massacre that left 14 dead. Enrique Marquez, 24, reportedly told investigators that he purchased two assault rifles used in the attack in 2012, so suspected shooters Syed Rizwan Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, wouldn't have to complete a background check or be on record, NBC News reports.

Authorities say Marquez also admitted to plotting with Farook to carry out an attack in 2010, though they ultimately did not follow through. Following the San Berardino shooting, Marquez checked himself into a mental health facility and reportedly posted a Facebook message that read, "I'm very sorry guys. It was a pleasure."

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Jeva Lange was the executive editor at TheWeek.com. She formerly served as The Week's deputy editor and culture critic. She is also a contributor to Screen Slate, and her writing has appeared in The New York Daily News, The Awl, Vice, and Gothamist, among other publications. Jeva lives in New York City. Follow her on Twitter.