Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Williamsville Man Charged with Bomb-Making


BUFFALO—U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. announced today that Duncan Badding, 24, of Williamsville, New York, was charged by criminal complaint with unlawfully making and unlawfully possessing destructive devices. While the investigation continues, the charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel L. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that the Amherst Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives executed a search of the defendant’s residence at 66 Williamsburg Square in Williamsville. During the search, law enforcement officers discovered many different volatile and explosive substances, chemicals, and mixtures. In addition, several apparent destructive devices, or combination of parts and devices designed or intended to be used or converted into destructive devices, were found.

“After thorough investigation by our law enforcement partners at the federal and local levels, our office determined that the behavior alleged in this case rose to the level of federal charges,” said U.S. Attorney Hochul. “The use of any type of explosive device cannot be taken lightly, especially when done in a residential area. This case is a good example of collaboration among law enforcement at all levels and the investigation will continue.”

The criminal complaint is the culmination of an investigation on the part of officers from the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief John Askey; special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Resident Agent in Charge Frank Christiano; and special agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Piehota.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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