A retired aerospace engineer in Arizona faces serious charges after allegedly targeting a Democratic party office with a series of shootings. Jeffrey Kelly fired multiple shots at the empty office in a couple of weeks. He was later found and arrested.
Terrorism Charges Unveiled
Jeffrey Michael Kelly, 60, has been accused of committing multiple shootings at the Tempe, Arizona, office of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). The charges are based on incidents occurring between September 16 and October 6, marking a terrifying spree where Kelly reportedly used both a carbon dioxide-powered gun and firearms to discharge over 20 rounds. These attacks resulted in significant property damage to the building, although no physical injuries were reported.
The DNC office was closed after the persistence of these attacks, and video surveillance eventually led police to Kelly’s arrest. Despite the absence of injuries, the charges laid against him include terrorism, discharging a firearm at a structure, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and criminal damage. Kelly remains in custody, held on two $500,000 cash-only bonds, as law enforcement agencies continue their thorough investigation.
Arizona: Man Accused Of Shooting DNC Campaign Office Indicted On Terrorism Charges https://t.co/xyp1x1pfI5 #OAN
— One America News (@OANN) October 30, 2024
Serious Allegations and Defense
The discovery of over 200 firearms and 250,000 rounds of ammunition at Kelly’s residence has raised speculations about possible intentions to commit a larger-scale attack. However, Kelly’s legal defense maintains that this firearm collection was intended solely for lawful, sport-related activities. The attorney highlighted Kelly’s clean prior record and asserted that the allegations misrepresented his client’s character and intent.
Currently, no motive for the attacks has been officially determined, although Tempe Police Chief Kenneth McCoy referenced Kelly’s history of posting anti-Democratic signs as a potential indicator. The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the underlying reasons for the escalated attacks on the DNC field office, one of 18 such offices functioning in support of Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign efforts within Arizona.
JUST IN Phoenix man indicted on felony terrorism charge & 7 other felony counts for allegedly shooting at @DNC field office in Tempe. https://t.co/3LSf7NHhoL pic.twitter.com/SMmsCU14Ad
— Brahm Resnik (@brahmresnik) October 30, 2024
Potential Motives and Ongoing Investigation
While authorities have not publicly disclosed Kelly’s motives, prosecutors have articulated concerns that Kelly might have been planning a more severe action. Maricopa County prosecutor Neha Bhatia noted that Kelly “was preparing to commit an act of mass casualty,” which has intensified the investigation into his intentions and potential links to extremism. As the legal considerations advance, investigators will continue exploring possible ties between Kelly’s actions and any larger extremist agendas.
The case has stirred anxiety within Arizona’s political community, given the apparent targeting based on political association. As this high-profile case progresses through the courts, it remains to be seen how these allegations and Kelly’s defense will be resolved, leaving community members and political affiliates wary but hopeful for justice to prevail.
