A 60-year-old Arizona man, Jeffrey Michael Kelly, has been arrested on terrorism charges after allegedly targeting a Democratic National Committee office in Tempe, Arizona, on three separate occasions, according to prosecutors. During a search of Kelly’s home, authorities discovered a staggering cache of over 120 firearms and more than 250,000 rounds of ammunition, leading law enforcement to suspect he may have been planning a large-scale attack.
The shootings at the Democratic campaign office took place on September 16, September 23, and October 6, with one incident involving a BB gun and two involving firearms. Each incident occurred in the early morning hours when the office was empty, resulting in no injuries. However, the frequency and timing of the attacks led the Arizona Democratic Party to temporarily close its office for the safety of workers and volunteers.
During Kelly's initial court appearance, Maricopa County prosecutor Neha Bhatia shared details of the alarming arsenal uncovered by federal agents, which included scopes, silencers, body armor, and a machine gun found in Kelly's vehicle. Authorities believe the evidence points to a potential plan to carry out a mass-casualty event.
In addition to the weaponry, investigators reported that Kelly placed anti-Democratic signs with razor blades around his home and attached bags marked “Biohazard” with an unknown white powder, heightening safety concerns in the community.
Kelly's attorney, Jason Squires, argued that his client, a retired aerospace engineer and licensed firearms owner, has no prior criminal history and is a longtime sportsman. Squires pointed to potential inconsistencies in the arrest statement.
Political violence concerns have heightened across the U.S. as the 2024 election approaches, with several high-profile threats and attacks against political figures and election workers nationwide.
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