Suspect in DC pipe bomb case to face explosive charges in court today

A man from Virginia, charged with placing two pipe bombs in Washington D.C. the night before the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot, is scheduled to appear in federal court on Friday, December 5. Brian Cole Jr., 30, from Woodbridge, located about 25 miles from the capital, faces two federal explosives charges, just one day after his arrest.

If convicted, the charges could carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years. Authorities say Cole allegedly planted the bombs near the offices of the Democratic and Republican national committees on the evening of January 5, 2021. Fortunately, the devices did not explode and no injuries were reported.

Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed Cole's arrest, which came after nearly five years of investigation, and noted that additional charges may be forthcoming. As of early Thursday, it was unclear whether Cole had retained legal representation.

Investigators allege that Cole purchased materials for the pipe bombs from retailers including Home Depot, Walmart, Lowe's, and Micro Center. Records indicate he bought items such as galvanized pipes, end caps, electrical wire, battery clips, kitchen timers, safety glasses, a wire-stripping tool, and a machinists file, starting in late 2019 and continuing into January 2021.

Law enforcement tracked Cole through credit card and bank records, cell phone data, and surveillance footage. His cell phone connected to towers near the RNC and DNC offices on January 5, and a vehicle he owns was recorded on camera close to the site where the bombs were first observed, less than half a mile away.

The FBI and federal agents arrested Cole in Woodbridge, Virginia, where he resides. The investigation relied on previously collected evidence, rather than a new tip, to locate him.

Author: Harper Simmons