Northampton County Man Arrested

            Michael Beer, 36, of Roseto, PA, was arrested last night by agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with support from the Pennsylvania State Police, for possession of a destructive device.  Beer will have an initial appearance today at 1:30 pm in federal court.

            According to the criminal complaint, Beer’s relative called police after discovering what was believed to be a pipe bomb in the basement of a house on Shisler Street, in Philadelphia, where Beer had previously resided.  The Philadelphia Police Department’s Bomb Disposal Unit, ATF and FBI all responded to the scene.  A total of six devices were removed and the area was secured.  

            The potential penalty for possession of a destructive device is up to 10 years in prison.  The government has 30 days to file an indictment.

            The case is being investigated by ATF and the Philadelphia Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Marianne Cox.

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, EASTERN DISTRICTof PENNSYLVANIA
Suite 1250, 615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
PATTY HARTMAN, Media Contact, 215-861-8525