Overview
- Cole, 30, was arrested in Virginia and faces federal counts of interstate transportation of an explosive device and attempted malicious destruction using explosives.
- Investigators cite purchase histories for pipe and timers, historical cell-site records near the DNC and RNC, surveillance imagery, and license-plate reader hits connecting him to the Jan. 5, 2021 placements.
- A judge ordered Cole held after his first appearance in Washington, where he did not enter a plea as the case moves forward.
- Officials say the motive remains undetermined and the inquiry continues, while some outlets report he confessed and voiced belief the 2020 election was stolen, attributing those claims to unnamed sources.
- FBI and DOJ leaders credited a renewed review of existing evidence rather than a new tip, as they highlighted the devices’ viability and the years-long push that followed false leads and conspiracy theories.