Man Arrested for Planting Bombs Intended to Challenge Political Parties
The individual suspected of planting two pipe bombs in a major city told officials that his intention was to stand up for those who believed the 2020 election results were rigged. He also expressed his desire to target the major political parties, stating they held too much power.
The suspect, Brian J. Cole Jr., was apprehended recently on charges of deploying the explosive devices near the headquarters of the two dominant political parties. He remains in custody as the case proceeds.
Details of the Suspect's Confession
Prosecutors have presented a comprehensive account of the suspect's own admission of the crime. They have also linked him to the crime based on the evidence found at his residence after his arrest, including components used for making bombs. The homemade bombs, which did not explode, were found on the day of a riot where supporters of the then president tried to stop the certification of the election he had lost.
Cole initially refuted any involvement in the bomb planting but later admitted to placing them near the party headquarters. He also said that he felt let down by the 2020 election, was frustrated with both the major political parties, and empathized with those who believed the election was compromised.
Justifying His Actions
Cole expressed that if people felt their right to vote was being undermined, someone needed to take a stand. He admitted to feeling overwhelmed as he saw things worsening around him and felt compelled to take action against the political parties who were in power. When asked why he targeted both party headquarters, his simple reply was that he didn't favor either of them at that point.
The Arrest and Investigation
Law enforcement officials apprehended Cole at his residence, marking a turning point in their investigation that had been ongoing for nearly five years. His legal team will also have the chance to present their stance on detainment in an upcoming hearing.
Post-arrest, investigators discovered bags filled with bomb-making materials in Cole's house and car. He initially denied his involvement in the creation or planting of the bombs. He also claimed to have attended a protest related to the 2020 election during questioning about his location on the evening prior to the bombs' discovery.
However, as the questioning progressed, Cole confessed his real reason for visiting the city was to plant the bombs. He transported the bombs in a shoebox in the backseat of his car, placing one at each party headquarters with a 60-minute timer set.
No Casualties, but Risks Were High
Fortunately, neither of the devices detonated. Cole expressed a sense of relief about this, stating he had chosen to plant them during the night to avoid causing harm or fatalities.
Despite the lack of detonation, prosecutors argue that it was pure luck rather than any effort on Cole's part. They assert that his actions posed a serious danger to the community, including innocent bystanders, office workers, law enforcement, first responders, and important political figures who were nearby at the time. They insist that Cole must remain in custody until his trial for the safety of the public.