A man in Florida with a lengthy criminal record was arrested and charged Friday with sending 13 packages containing improvised explosive devices to high-profile figures across the country, authorities said.
The arrest came on the same day law enforcement found three more devices — in Florida, New York and California — and capped off an increasingly tense five-day stretch in which at least one explosive device was found each day, putting officials and potential targets on high alert. None of the devices detonated. All of them were sent to people who have criticized or clashed with President Trump, and authorities continued to warn Friday that others could still be out there.
Authorities arrested 56-year-old Cesar Sayoc, who according to Florida records, has a criminal record dating back decades that included including a past arrest for making a bomb threat.
Sayoc was charged Friday with transporting explosives across state lines, illegally mailing explosives, threatening former presidents and others, threatening interstate communications and assaulting federal officials, according to charging documents.
He could face decades in prison if convicted. It was not immediately clear if he had an attorney.
A cousin of the suspect told NBC News she was stunned by Sayoc’s arrest.
“Oh my God. He’s always been a very nice, thoughtful person. I don’t know anything about this. It’s shocking,” said the woman, who asked to remain anonymous.
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