Jack LaSota and Michelle Zajko, alleged leaders of the "Zizians," a fringe vegan activist group, were apprehended in Maryland on Sunday. Maryland State Police confirmed their arrests on charges including trespassing, obstructing and hindering, and firearm possession. Zajko also faces charges of resisting arrest and carrying a handgun. These charges are unrelated to the ongoing investigation into the murder of Border Patrol Agent David Maland.

The Zizians, described as having a cult-like following, adhere to a blend of artificial intelligence theories, ethical reasoning, and veganism, according to a former associate. This individual characterized their ideology as having an "anarchist, vegan critique of society" that seemingly justifies violence. The group is under investigation for its potential involvement in Agent Maland's death near the Canadian border in January, as well as five other homicides across Vermont, Pennsylvania, and California.

Agent Maland, an Air Force veteran and Minnesota native, served at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Newport Station. His career included nine years in the military and 15 years in federal service. The circumstances that led the Zizians to Vermont remain unclear.

It's alleged that Zajko purchased the handguns used in Maland's shooting in Vermont in February 2024. She's also a person of interest in a double homicide in Pennsylvania and another in California. Authorities are collaborating with federal law enforcement and the Allegany County State’s Attorney’s Office as the investigation progresses.