Federal Charges Follow April Attack in Salem, Massachusetts
Sean Patrick Palmer, a resident of Perkins, Oklahoma, entered a not guilty plea on Thursday during his arraignment in a Boston federal court. Palmer is accused of using a pipe bomb to damage the Massachusetts headquarters of The Satanic Temple in April.
Target: Art Gallery Advocating Secularism
The targeted building serves as both the headquarters for The Satanic Temple and an art gallery. The Salem-based organization clarifies on its website that it promotes secularism and individual liberties, and does not engage in Satan worship.
Explosive Device Caused Minor Damage
According to investigators, surveillance footage captured a masked figure approaching the building around 4:00 am on April 8th. Clad in a tactical vest and gloves, the individual ignited an improvised explosive device before throwing it at the entrance and fleeing. The partially detonated bomb caused minor fire damage.
Surveillance Footage Implicates Palmer
Federal prosecutors allege that surveillance footage captured a black Volvo registered to Palmer driving erratically in the vicinity of the building before and after the attack.
Palmer Faces Potential Prison Sentence
Palmer will remain in custody while the case progresses. If convicted of using explosives to damage a building, he could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 30th.
