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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