Police arrest alleged leader of cult-like 'Zizian' group tied to multiple murders in the US
Jack Lasota is allegedly the leader of the group. Authorities continue to investigate the group's activities.
Authorities have arrested Jack Lasota, the suspected leader of the cult-like group known as the Zizians, along with another member, Michelle Zajko, in Maryland.
The arrests come after the Zizians were linked to several violent crimes, including the recent killing of U.S. Border Patrol Agent David Maland near the Canadian border. The group, composed of young computer scientists with anarchist beliefs, has raised concerns across the U.S. with their increasingly violent actions.
Zizian Cult leader and member Arrested in Maryland
The alleged leader of the cult-like group known as the Zizians has been arrested in Maryland, along with another member, Maryland State Police announced on Monday.
Jack Lasota, 34, was arrested on Sunday, along with 33-year-old Michelle Zajko from Media, Pennsylvania. Both face multiple charges, including trespassing, obstruction, hindering, and possession of a handgun in the vehicle.
A bail hearing for Lasota and Zajko is scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday at Allegany District Court.
Who are the Zizians?
The Zizians are defined by their extremist beliefs, combining elements of transhumanism, veganism, and anarchist strategies. Their members frequently resort to violence to advance their ideology, which includes radical stances on animal rights and a rejection of conventional societal structures.
The cult was also involved in the murder of U.S. Border Patrol agent David Maland, who was killed on Jan. 20, 2025. Photo: MPR News
The group’s leader, Jack “Ziz” LaSota, has played a key role in shaping these philosophies, drawing in followers who feel alienated from mainstream culture.
Federal and state agencies are working together to dismantle the Zizian network and prevent future violence. With the arrest of the suspected leader, their efforts appear to be yielding results. These initiatives include heightened surveillance, intelligence sharing, and community outreach to identify and address potential threats.