The Justice Department announced the arrest of Brian Cole Jr., a 30-year-old resident of Woodbridge, Virginia, in connection with the placement of two pipe bombs near the Republican National Committee (RNC) and Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters on January 5, 2021. This arrest follows a nearly five-year investigation that involved analyzing millions of data points, including surveillance footage and cell phone records that placed Cole at the scene during the time the bombs were planted.

Cole, who worked for a bail bonds company operated by his father, reportedly expressed beliefs that the 2020 presidential election was stolen and adhered to various conspiracy theories surrounding the election. He faces federal charges for transporting explosive materials across state lines and attempting to destroy a building with explosives. During his interrogation, Cole's statements regarding his motivations were inconsistent, leaving the specific reasons for his actions unclear.

The FBI had previously offered a $500,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the individual responsible for the bomb placements, but the investigation was primarily resolved through internal efforts. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino noted that the case had been neglected under previous leadership, and the renewed focus during the current administration has brought the investigation to a conclusion.

Evidence against Cole includes video footage of him placing the devices, as well as data from his cell phone provider indicating his presence near the political party headquarters. The bombs, which were viable and could have caused serious harm, were not discovered for 17 hours, coinciding with the time when supporters of then-President Donald Trump breached the Capitol building, delaying the certification of the election results.

Cole's arrest raises ongoing concerns about political violence and the implications of extremist beliefs in the context of U.S. democracy. The investigation continues as authorities seek to ensure accountability for actions that threaten public safety and democratic processes.