The FBI’s investigation into pipe bombs planted near the RNC and DNC on Jan. 5, 2021, is facing new scrutiny. A recent report reveals that cell phone providers dispute the FBI’s claim that corrupted data hindered the search for the suspect.
The bombs, discovered the night before the Jan. 6 protests, were safely defused, but the case remains unsolved nearly four years later. Former FBI Assistant Director Steve D’Antuono testified last year that corrupted phone data complicated efforts to identify the perpetrator. However, Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Georgia says major cell carriers have denied providing unusable data.
Speaking with Just the News, Loudermilk explained that his subcommittee contacted the carriers to verify the FBI’s claims. “Every major cell carrier responded and confirmed that they did not provide the FBI corrupted data,” he said. Loudermilk has since sent a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray asking for clarification on D’Antuono’s testimony.
The suspect, seen in surveillance footage, calmly planted a device near the DNC before walking away. Despite extensive video evidence and advanced geofencing technology, the FBI has not identified the individual. Critics argue this stands in contrast to the swift identification and prosecution of others involved in the Capitol protests.
Loudermilk emphasized the importance of resolving the case, noting that unresolved questions undermine public trust in federal law enforcement. He has requested further details from the FBI about its handling of phone data and whether additional steps were taken to retrieve uncorrupted information.
As lawmakers push for accountability, the case remains a troubling reminder of the unanswered questions surrounding Jan. 6. The ongoing lack of resolution has fueled skepticism about the FBI’s transparency and effectiveness in high-profile investigations.