Bala Cynwyd Man Charged in Computer Sabotage Scheme

Adam Flanagan of Bala Cynwyd is staring down 90 years behind bars after being indicted on twelve federal counts of damaging protected computers. The charges, unsealed November 22, 2016, stem from a targeted attack on computer systems tied to water meter technology once managed by his former employer.

According to U.S. Attorney Zane David Memeger, Flanagan allegedly breached remote computer systems responsible for reading municipal water meters. He then changed passwords and altered radio transmission frequencies—crippling the network and rendering key infrastructure inoperable. The act didn’t just disrupt service—it crossed into felony territory under federal law.

Each count of damaging protected computers carries a maximum 10-year prison sentence. With twelve counts stacked against him, Flanagan could spend nine decades in federal prison. On top of that, prosecutors are seeking up to 3 years of supervised release, a $3,000,000 fine, and a $1,200 special assessment.

The sabotage didn’t go unnoticed. The FBI launched a full investigation, tracing digital footprints back to Flanagan. Sources confirm agents seized electronic devices and combed through network logs to piece together the scope of the breach, which impacted municipal operations relying on accurate meter data.

Now, the case is in the hands of Assistant United States Attorney Michael L. Levy, who’s building a high-stakes prosecution. Federal prosecutors argue the attack was deliberate, technically sophisticated, and designed to inflict operational harm—marking it as more than mere corporate grudge.

An indictment is not a conviction. Flanagan is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Still, the charges expose a growing threat: insider tech knowledge turned weapon. As cities go digital, this case may set a precedent for how federal law handles cyber sabotage from within.