A federal judge in Washington, D.C. has ordered that the man accused of planting pipe bombs near the Republican and Democratic National Committee headquarters remain in custody as his case advances,
reinforcing concerns about public safety and the seriousness of the charges
U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Sharbaugh issued the ruling on January 2, 2026, concluding that no set of release conditions could adequately protect the community from potential danger posed by the suspect. The decision came after a series of pretrial hearings and arguments from both prosecutors and defense attorneys.
Accused Suspect Identified: Who Is Brian Cole Jr.?
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Brian Cole Jr. of Woodbridge, Virginia, was arrested on December 4, 2025, ending a nearly five-year investigation into explosive devices placed in Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2021, the evening before the U.S. Capitol riot.
Federal prosecutors allege that Cole planted two pipe bombs one near the Republican National Committee (RNC) headquarters and the other near the Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters in the Capitol Hill area. Although neither device detonated, authorities have characterized them as
viable explosive threats that could have caused serious damage or injuries.
According to court filings, Cole confessed to federal investigators after his arrest, stating that he carried out the bomb placements because of his frustration with political leaders and
beliefs tied to unfounded claims that the 2020 U.S. presidential election was “stolen.”
Judge’s Ruling: Public Safety and Risk Assessment
In his written order, Judge Sharbaugh emphasized the
significant threat to public safety posed by the alleged conduct. He noted that although the bombs did not explode, their placement in the heart of the nation’s capital on a highly symbolic day could have had
devastating consequences:
“If the plan had succeeded, the results could have been devastating: creating a greater sense of terror on the eve of a high-security Congressional proceeding, causing serious property damage in the heart of Washington, D.C., grievously injuring DNC or RNC staff and other innocent bystanders, or worse.”
The judge also cited the strength of the government’s evidence and the risk that Cole might repeat dangerous conduct. Prosecutors argued that Cole’s actions demonstrated an impulsive willingness to engage in violence and that he posed an ongoing danger.
Defense Arguments: Release Denied
During pretrial proceedings, defense attorneys argued that Cole should be released under strict supervision while awaiting trial. They cited his lack of prior criminal history, family support, and the claim that the devices were not capable of detonation. Attorneys also highlighted personal details, including Cole’s autism spectrum disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder diagnoses, which they said should be considered in evaluating his flight risk and potential danger.
The defense proposed that Cole could remain under house arrest with GPS monitoring, suggesting his grandmother’s home as a secure environment. However, Judge Sharbaugh rejected these arguments, stating that none of the proposed conditions could
meaningfully mitigate the risks associated with the charges.
Charges and Potential Sentences
Cole faces multiple federal explosives-related charges, including transporting explosives across state lines with intent to injure or intimidate, and attempted malicious destruction by means of fire or explosive materials. These charges carry potential prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years or more, including mandatory minimum penalties if convicted.
He has not yet entered a plea, and a trial date has not been scheduled. Federal prosecutors are expected to present their case to a grand jury, which could result in additional formal indictments and specifications.
Background: Connection to January 6, 2021
The timing of the alleged pipe-bomb placements is significant because they occurred just hours before the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, when a mob of supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the building in an attempt to disrupt the certification of the 2020 election results.
Investigators have long regarded the pipe bombs as a serious threat that
diverted law enforcement attention and resources at a critical moment during the Capitol breach. The FBI and Department of Justice continued investigating the devices as part of the broader January 6 probe, ultimately identifying Cole through forensic evidence, surveillance footage and digital clues such as cell phone data.
Impact and Ongoing Proceedings
Cole’s detention is part of a continuing effort by federal authorities to hold individuals accountable for violent and destructive actions tied to January 6 and its surrounding events. The case exemplifies how long-running federal investigations can yield charges years after
alleged offenses especially in high-profile national security matters.
As the legal process unfolds, prosecutors and defense attorneys will continue their arguments over evidence, mental health considerations, and the appropriate handling of this case. For now, the judge’s custody order ensures that Cole remains behind bars through critical stages of pretrial proceedings, reflecting judicial caution in cases involving alleged explosive devices and threats to public safety.
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