Nathaniel James McGuire, a 20-year-old from Santa Maria, California, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to a bomb attack at the Santa Barbara County Superior Court.
The incident, which took place on September 25, left several people injured and has led to serious federal charges against McGuire.
His arraignment is set for October 25 in the Central District of California.
The Courthouse Incident
On the morning of September 25, McGuire entered the Santa Maria courthouse and allegedly threw a bag into the lobby.
The bag soon exploded, injuring at least five people nearby.
After the explosion, McGuire fled the scene on foot but was quickly apprehended by law enforcement officers as he attempted to reach a red Ford Mustang parked outside the courthouse.
McGuire’s Actions and Arrest
When McGuire was arrested, he reportedly shouted that the government had taken his guns and urged people to rise up in rebellion.
Upon searching the Mustang, officers found ammunition, a flare gun, fireworks, a shotgun, a rifle, and a suspected bomb, which was later neutralized by law enforcement.
Authorities also discovered 10 Molotov cocktails in the vehicle. McGuire allegedly admitted he intended to return to the courthouse to kill a judge.
Investigation and Charges
A further search of McGuire’s home uncovered more alarming items, including an empty can covered with nails, black powder, fireworks, and handwritten documents that appeared to be instructions for making explosives.
Based on the evidence, McGuire faces multiple charges, including using a weapon of mass destruction, maliciously damaging a building with explosives, and possessing unregistered destructive devices.
Legal Consequences
McGuire has been in custody since his arrest in September, and if convicted of all charges, he could face a minimum of seven years in prison and a potential maximum sentence of life.
The final sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge, who will consider various guidelines and factors.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI is leading the investigation into the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Takla and Kathrynne N. Seiden, with help from Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, are prosecuting McGuire.
The Justice Department has emphasized that McGuire, like all defendants, remains innocent until proven guilty in court.
What’s Next?
As the investigation continues and McGuire prepares for his court appearance, the focus will be on gathering further evidence and preparing for trial.
Law enforcement agencies remain involved, ensuring that all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined before the court date.
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