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Defendant Seeks Dismissal of Pipe Bomb Charges, Cites Trump Pardon

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Brian Cole Jr. asked a federal judge to dismiss charges tied to planting pipe bombs on Jan. 5, 2021, arguing that U.S. President Donald Trump’s January 6 pardon applies.
Prosecutors say the bombs diverted law enforcement from the Capitol riot.
Cole maintains his innocence and faces allegations of compiling bomb-making supplies over months.
His defense cites a peaceful lifestyle and autism.
Evidence links him to Capitol Hill during the incident.

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Story summary

Brian Cole Jr. asked a federal judge to dismiss charges tied to planting pipe bombs on Jan. 5, 2021, arguing that U.S. President Donald Trump’s January 6 pardon applies.
Prosecutors say the bombs diverted law enforcement from the Capitol riot.
Cole maintains his innocence and faces allegations of compiling bomb-making supplies over months.
His defense cites a peaceful lifestyle and autism.
Evidence links him to Capitol Hill during the incident.