Wisconsin Man Accused of Setting Fire to Congressman’s Office Over TikTok Ban
Prosecutors Charge 19-Year-Old with Arson, Making Terrorist Threats, and Property Damage
Prosecutors in Wisconsin have charged a 19-year-old man with multiple counts, including arson, making terrorist threats, and property damage, for allegedly setting fire to a congressman’s office in protest of the federal TikTok ban. Caiden Stachowicz, of Menasha, is accused of attempting to burn down the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman, a Republican, due to his opposition to the ban.
Background
Stachowicz was scheduled to make his initial court appearance on Wednesday morning, where he was ordered to have no contact with Rep. Grothman or his staff, and to have no dangerous weapons or fire-starting materials. He was also ordered to be held on $500,000 cash bail.
Incident Details
According to the complaint, a police officer responded to a fire outside Rep. Grothman’s office in Fond du Lac around 1 a.m. on Sunday. The officer saw Stachowicz standing nearby and told him that he started the fire because he doesn’t like Grothman. The officer handcuffed Stachowicz and took him to the police department.
Arson Attempt
During an interview at the police department, Stachowicz told the officer that he bought gas and matches to start a fire at Grothman’s office. He attempted to break into the office to start the fire inside but couldn’t break the window. He then poured gas on an electrical box in the back of the building and around the front of the building, lit a match, and watched it burn.
Motivation
Stachowicz stated that he wanted to burn the building down because the U.S. government was shutting down TikTok and Grothman voted in favor of the bill. He believed the shutdown violated his constitutional rights and added that he has participated in peaceful protests in the past but no longer believes peace is an option.
Consequences
If convicted on all counts, Stachowicz could face more than 50 years behind bars. The charges against him include felony arson, making terrorist threats, attempted burglary, and property damage.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the potential dangers of extremism and the importance of upholding the rule of law. As the world grapples with the complexities of social media, it is crucial that we find a balance between individual freedoms and public safety.
FAQs
* What is the current status of the charges against Caiden Stachowicz?
The charges against Stachowicz are pending and he is currently being held on $500,000 cash bail.
* What is the motive behind the alleged arson attempt?
Stachowicz allegedly attempted to burn down the congressman’s office to protest the federal TikTok ban and the perceived violation of his constitutional rights.
* What are the potential consequences for Stachowicz if convicted on all counts?
Stachowicz could face more than 50 years behind bars if convicted on all counts.
