MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Kyle Calvert, a 26-year-old Irondale man, pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to charges related to the detonation of an explosive device outside the Montgomery offices of Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall in February.
According to court documents, Calvert detonated a shrapnel-filled device during the early morning hours of Feb. 24, outside of Marshall's offices in downtown Montgomery. No injuries were reported.
Calvert admitted during the plea hearing to making the device himself. "Prior to planting the device, Calvert placed stickers on various state buildings depicting different graphics and advocating for various political ideologies. Some stickers included the phrase 'Support your local antifa,' according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Calvert claims he has no affiliation with such organizations.
After placing the device near the Attorney General’s Office, Calvert lit its fuse and fled the scene. Law enforcement arrested Calvert on April 10.
“This attack on the Alabama Attorney General’s Office was an attack on the American justice system,” said Director Steven Dettelbach of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“Calvert’s offense was a very serious one and today’s plea ensures that he will face significant consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Ross for the Middle District of Alabama.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. Calvert faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.