Federal authorities have arrested a person in connection with the twelve suspected explosive devices sent to multiple Democratic politicians and other media organizations CNN reported Friday morning. DNA evidence played a role in Friday morning's arrest which occurred in South Florida law enforcement sources said.
Sarah Isgur Flores, a spokesperson for the United States Department of Justice said on Twitter that one person had been taken into custody. The suspect was identified as Cesar Sayoc Jr., 56, officials told NBC News. Officials also seized his white van, which had its windows covered with pictures of Trump and the presidential seal plastered to a window. Officials towed the vehicle away after covering it with a tarp.
CNN reports that Sayoc is a man in his 50s with a criminal history and was arrested at a business in Plantation, Florida. He reportedly has a Florida address and ties to the New York area, officials say.
Law enforcement sources told ABC News that authorities were able to track down the suspect using a mobile phone. Officials have recovered a cell phone, laptop computer, and other electronic devices from the individual.
During an appearance in front of the Young Black Leadership Summit, Trump addressed the Sayoc's arrest, saying authorities would prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.
"These terrorizing acts are despicable and have no place in our country," Trump said, adding that "We must never allow political violence to take root in America. Cannot let it happen. I'm committed to doing everything in my power as President to stop it. To stop it now. Stop it now."
Trump also called for unity among Americans.
"The bottom line is that Americans must unify. We must show the world that we are united together in peace and love and harmony as fellow American citizens. There is no country like our country and every day we are showing the world just how truly great we are," the President said.
"We can confirm one person is in custody," Flores wrote, adding the department would be holding a press conference with more details scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET.
Two additional devices were discovered Friday morning, one addressed to New Jersey Senator Cory Booker at a postal facility in Florida, and another addressed to the former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper at a postal facility in Manhattan.
The device was safely removed from the United States Postal Facility by the NYPD.
Authorities have discovered 12 packages containing explosive devices so far, all of which have contained pipe bombs.
- Billionaire investor and Democratic Donor George Soros
- Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
- Former President Barack Obama
- Former CIA Director John Brennan (sent to CNN's offices)
- Former Attorney General Eric Holder (found at Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz's office in Florida)
- (2) Rep. Maxine Waters (One package sent to her office in Washington D.C. and another was found at a postal facility in Los Angeles)
- Actor-Director Robert De Niro
- (2) Joe Biden (two packages were discovered at a Wilmington, Delaware postal facility).
- Former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper
- New Jersey Senator Cory Booker
Florida Gov. Rick Scott condemned the series of explosive devices sent to prominent Democrats, Trump critics and media organizations in a tweet Friday morning saying he had been briefed on the latest developments.
I have been briefed by FDLE on developments regarding the attempted bombings. ANY attempt to harm others is disgusting & has no place in Florida or our country. I appreciate the hard work of law enforcement to bring swift justice to whoever is responsible for these cowardly acts.
This is a breaking news update, more details will be added as they become available.
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