In a recent highly anticipated trial, a federal jury in Chicago convicted a man for the detonation of a pipe bomb at a suburban Chicago train station back in 2006. The defendant, Thomas James Zajac, placed the explosive device in a trash can at the BNSF Railway station in Hinsdale, causing significant damage and injuring a station agent during the morning commute. This act of domestic terrorism was driven by Zajac’s feelings of disrespect towards the local police, as evidenced by an anonymous letter he sent to the Hinsdale Police Department. The jury found Zajac guilty of multiple charges, including property destruction and making threats through the mail. The severity of his offenses carries significant penalties, with a minimum sentence of five years in federal prison. The sentencing is scheduled for December, and the prosecution team seeks to ensure justice is served for the victims of this heinous crime.
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Overview
This article provides an overview of the case involving the placement of a pipe bomb at a train station in Hinsdale, Illinois. It discusses the conviction and charges against Thomas James Zajac, along with the mandatory minimum sentence he faces. The article also highlights the announcement of the verdicts, as well as the assistance provided by various law enforcement agencies. Additionally, it mentions the representation of the government by Assistant U.S. Attorneys. The article concludes by providing contact information and ways to stay connected with the latest updates.
Background of the Case
Placement of Pipe Bomb at Train Station
On September 1, 2006, Thomas James Zajac placed a pipe bomb in a trash can at the BNSF Railway station in Hinsdale, Illinois. The device exploded during the morning commute, causing damage inside the station and injuring a station agent. This incident posed a serious threat to the safety of commuters and the surrounding community.
Anonymous Letter to Hinsdale Police Department
About a month after the detonation of the pipe bomb, Zajac sent an anonymous letter to the Hinsdale Police Department. In the letter, he stated that the police had “expletive with” the wrong person and claimed to have “fired a warning shot” the previous month. The letter also included a threat, suggesting that police actions would likely lead to the death of at least one person in Hinsdale. This anonymous letter raised concerns and prompted an investigation into the case.
Conviction and Charges
Conviction of Thomas James Zajac
Following an extensive investigation, Thomas James Zajac was convicted on all three counts against him. These counts include attempting to destroy property with an explosive device, possessing an unregistered destructive device, and willfully making a threat through the mail to kill or injure a person with an explosive device. This conviction demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement to ensuring public safety and holding individuals accountable for their actions.
Counts Against Zajac
Thomas James Zajac was charged with one count of attempting to destroy property with an explosive device, one count of possessing an unregistered destructive device, and one count of willfully making a threat through the mail to kill or injure a person with an explosive device. Each of these counts carries significant legal consequences, including potential prison sentences.
Mandatory Minimum Sentence
The count of property destruction with an explosive device carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison, with a maximum sentence of 20 years. This mandatory minimum sentence reflects the severity of the crime committed and underscores the importance of deterring such actions in the future.
Sentencing Date
U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly has set the sentencing date for Thomas James Zajac on December 13, 2023. The upcoming sentencing will provide an opportunity for the court to consider the appropriate punishment for the crimes committed and ensure justice is served.
Announcement of Verdicts
Announcement by Morris Pasqual
The verdicts in the case against Thomas James Zajac were announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois. This announcement marked an important milestone in the legal proceedings, as it publicly confirmed the jury’s findings and underscored the successful prosecution of the defendant.
Assistance Provided by Law Enforcement
Various law enforcement agencies provided invaluable assistance throughout the investigation and prosecution of this case. The collaborative efforts of these agencies were instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. The Hinsdale Police Department, DuPage County, Ill., Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Secret Service all played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the community and bringing the perpetrator to justice.
Assistance Provided by Law Enforcement
Hinsdale Police Department
The Hinsdale Police Department played a significant role in the investigation of the pipe bomb detonation case. Their diligent efforts in collecting evidence, conducting interviews, and collaborating with other law enforcement agencies were vital in building a strong case against Thomas James Zajac. The dedication of the Hinsdale Police Department highlights the commitment of local law enforcement to protect the safety and well-being of the community.
DuPage County, Ill., Sheriff’s Office
The DuPage County Sheriff’s Office provided crucial support and assistance in the investigation and prosecution of the case. Their expertise and resources were instrumental in ensuring a comprehensive examination of the evidence and strengthening the case against Thomas James Zajac. The collaboration between the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies reinforces the importance of interagency cooperation in pursuing justice.
U.S. Secret Service
The U.S. Secret Service provided invaluable assistance in the investigation of this case. Their expertise in matters related to threats, explosives, and mail-related crimes proved instrumental in identifying and apprehending Thomas James Zajac. The involvement of the U.S. Secret Service demonstrates a commitment to protecting the safety and security of the public.
Representation of the Government
Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Case
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Kerwin, G. David Rojas, and Andréa L. Campbell represented the government in the prosecution of Thomas James Zajac. Their diligent efforts, legal expertise, and commitment to justice played a crucial role in presenting a strong case against the defendant. The dedication of these Assistant U.S. Attorneys underscores the importance of upholding the law and protecting the rights and safety of the community.
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Sentencing of Rockford Man for Illegal Firearm Possession
In a related case, a Rockford man was sentenced to more than six years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. This sentencing highlights the continued efforts of law enforcement to combat illegal firearm possession and ensure the safety of the community. The successful prosecution and sentencing of individuals involved in firearm-related crimes contribute to the overall goal of reducing violent crime.
Sentencing of Leader of Chicago Drug Trafficking Organization
Another notable case involved the sentencing of the leader of a Chicago drug trafficking organization. Kelvin Franklin was sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison as part of a federal probe into heroin and fentanyl-laced heroin sales on Chicago’s Northwest Side. This sentencing serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks and protect communities from the harmful effects of drug-related crimes.
Carjacking Case at Chicago Gas Station
A carjacking case at a suburban Chicago gas station resulted in a ten-year federal prison sentence for Kewan Tillman. Tillman carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint while a woman and her two children were inside, highlighting the seriousness of violent crimes such as carjacking. The successful prosecution and sentencing of individuals involved in carjacking cases demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement to maintaining public safety.
Contact Information
Northern District of Illinois Eastern Division Address
219 S. Dearborn St., 5th Floor Chicago, IL 60604
Western Division Address
327 S. Church Street, Room 3300 Rockford, IL 61101
Phone Numbers
Chicago: (312) 353-5300 Rockford: (815) 987-4444
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To stay updated on the latest developments in the case and to access important information and resources, please visit the official website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois. Stay connected with us on Twitter and LinkedIn to receive real-time updates.
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