WASHINGTON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 30th October, 2018) A US Federal court has denied initial bail to Cesar Sayoc, the man suspected of mailing 14 pipe bombs to critics of President Donald Trump, and has instead ordered him to remain behind bars until his next court appearance in four days, local media reported on Monday.
During Sayoc's first federal court appearance, prosecutors said they would oppose any bond for the defendant, calling him a threat to the community, The Miami Herald newspaper reported.
The 56-year-old suspect was charged with five federal crimes, including interstate transportation of an explosive, illegal mailing of explosives, and threats against former presidents and certain other persons.
US Magistrate Judge Edwin Torres ordered a detention hearing for Sayoc on November 2, after the defendant's attorney requested additional time to prepare documents for bond.
Sayoc spoke to FBI agents prior to his appearance in the court room and said he did not intend to hurt any of mail recipients, the report said. Though the devices caused no explosions or injuries, federal authorities insist they should still be treated seriously.
US Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced last week that the defendant is facing up to 48 years in prison. Sessions stressed the Trump administration would not tolerate political violence and would punish anyone who attempts to spread fear.
Sayoc sent packages containing suspected explosives to prominent Democrats including former President Barack Obama, former Vice President Joe Biden, ex-Secretary of State Hillary Cinton, Florida Congresswoman Deborah Wasserman Schultz, California Congresswoman Maxine Walters and others. The most recent suspicious package, sent to CNN's headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, was intercepted earlier on Monday.
