GRIM NEWS: A sinister scheme to blow up a critical Ohio bridge was thwarted with the conviction of Joshua Stafford.
In a stunning revelation, 24-year-old Stafford from Cleveland was found guilty of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, attempted use of WMDs, and malicious use of an explosive device to destroy property in interstate commerce. The sentence was set for September 11th.
“This defendant’s disregard for our community is a chilling reminder of the threats we face,” said U.S. Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach, who emphasized the vital role of law enforcement agencies like the FBI. “Their diligence saved lives.”
The plot to destroy the Route 82 Brecksville-Northfield High Level Bridge was part of a larger conspiracy involving Stafford and four others. The group, self-proclaimed anarchists, plotted to disrupt downtown Cleveland’s skyline with smoke grenades before shifting focus to explosive devices.
“Stafford thought he was igniting a revolution, but instead, he found himself in court,” said FBI Special Agent Stephen D. Anthony. “His actions underscore the importance of our efforts to prevent terrorism.”
The group’s targets were bridges and other physical landmarks in the Cleveland area, with the Route 82 bridge being their final choice. However, the public was never in danger as the explosives used were controlled by an undercover FBI employee, ensuring no harm came to innocent civilians.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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