The man accused of starting a fire outside Senator Bernie Sanders’ Vermont office will remain detained pending further legal proceedings, as ordered by a federal judge. Shant Michael Soghomonian, 35, was indicted on a charge of maliciously damaging or attempting to damage a building used in interstate commerce by fire. Surveillance video shows him throwing a liquid at the door of Sanders’ office and setting it on fire with a lighter. The motive for the arson remains unclear, and Sanders was not present in the office at the time of the incident.
Fortunately, seven employees working in the office were able to escape unharmed. However, the building’s interior suffered damage from the fire and water sprinklers. Soghomonian, originally from Northridge, California, had been staying at a South Burlington hotel for nearly two months prior to the incident. He was spotted outside Sanders’ office the day before and on the day of the fire. Prosecutors argued that he poses a danger to the community and is a flight risk, thus advocating for his continued detention. Soghomonian’s public defender did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The federal judge’s decision to detain Soghomonian comes amid ongoing legal proceedings related to the arson incident. The indictment filed against him outlines the charges he faces and the evidence presented, including surveillance footage and witness statements. The case has garnered significant attention due to the targeted nature of the attack on Senator Sanders’ office. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the incident and any potential connections or motivations Soghomonian may have had.
Sanders’ office has not issued a statement regarding the incident or the ongoing legal proceedings. The senator himself was not present during the arson attempt and has not commented publicly on the matter. The safety and security of lawmakers and their staff remain a top priority, especially in light of recent incidents targeting political figures and government buildings. The case serves as a reminder of the potential threats faced by public officials and the importance of strong security measures to protect them and their offices.
As the legal process unfolds, further details are expected to emerge regarding Soghomonian’s background, possible motives, and any prior interactions with Senator Sanders or his office. The incident has raised concerns about political violence and extremism, prompting calls for increased vigilance and security measures for elected officials and their staff. The court’s decision to detain Soghomonian underscores the seriousness of the charges against him and the potential risk he may pose to the community. The case will continue to be closely monitored as it proceeds through the legal system.
