WASHINGTON – The man suspected of placing two pipe bombs in Washington on the night before the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol told investigators following his arrest that he believed someone needed to “speak up” for those who thought the 2020 election was rigged. On Sunday, prosecutors also revealed that the suspect wanted to attack the nation’s political parties because they were “in charge.”
A Justice Department memo laid out the allegations. The memo claimed that Brian J. Cole Jr should remain in custody as the case moves forward. Investigators arrested Cole earlier this month on charges related to pipe bombs placed outside the Democratic and Republican national committees.
The memo offers a thorough government account of statements allegedly made by Cole to authorities. The memo points to evidence that officials claim confirms Cole’s involvement. Bomb-making equipment found in his residence after his arrest is among the list of evidence.
“I didn’t agree with what people were doing, like just telling half the country that they – that their – that they just need to ignore it. I didn’t think it was a good idea, so I just went to the protest.” The memo cites Cole’s words.
Officials arrested Cole on Dec. 4 at his home in Woodbridge, Virginia. Investigators describe the event as a breakthrough in their years-long investigation.
“The defendant’s choice of targets risked the lives not only of innocent pedestrians and office workers but also of law enforcement, first responders, and national political leaders who were inside of the respective party headquarters or drove by them on January 6, 2021, including the Vice President-elect and Speaker of the House,” prosecutors stated.
Neither bomb detonated, which Cole was “pretty relieved” about. Cole stated he planted the bombs in the evening because he did not want to cause any fatalities, according to the memo.
