Crime
40-year-old Brent Sharrai arrested after planting IED on parked railroad car in Payette, Idaho
On January 1, 2025, at approximately 5:54 p.m., the Payette Police Department responded to reports of a suspicious individual observed near a parked railroad car in the 600 block of North 8th Street. The individual appeared to be attempting to ignite an object.
Upon arrival, officers discovered fresh footprints in the snow leading to a train car. Inside the car, they located a suspected undetonated improvised explosive device (IED).
Officers followed the tracks to a nearby camp trailer parked close to a residence in the same area.
The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Payette resident Brent Sharrai, attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a brief pursuit. Sharrai surrendered to law enforcement and was taken into custody on outstanding warrants in Payette County.
He was later booked into the Payette County Jail on multiple charges, including:
- Possession of a Destructive Device (Felony)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance (Felony)
- Possession of Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor)
- Resisting and Obstructing Officers
Given the imminent danger posed by the IED, the Nampa Bomb Squad was called to the scene to neutralize the threat. Union Pacific Railroad was notified, and all trains scheduled to pass through the area were placed on standby for approximately five hours while the scene was secured.
Using a specialized robot, the Nampa Bomb Squad safely removed the device from the train car and later detonated it in a controlled environment to ensure it no longer posed a threat. An FBI agent also responded to assist with the ongoing investigation.
A search warrant was obtained for the camp trailer where Sharrai had been staying. Inside, officers discovered items consistent with those used to construct the IED found on the train car, as well as controlled substances and drug paraphernalia.
Sharrai remains in custody at the Payette County Jail, facing the listed charges. Federal charges for possession and manufacturing of a destructive device are pending further investigation by the FBI.
This incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and swift action by law enforcement. The Payette Police Department extends its gratitude to the Nampa Bomb Squad, Union Pacific Railroad, and the FBI for their assistance in ensuring the safety of the community.
Crime
Armed Man with Reported Mental Health Concerns Arrested inside U.S. Capitol
Police officer suspended after failing to stop an armed man entering the U.S. Capitol.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, January 21, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) responded to a security alert regarding a man reportedly experiencing mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, who was believed to be armed and in the vicinity of the Capitol.
At approximately 1:15 p.m., USCP officers located the suspect’s vehicle on First Street near East Capitol Street, NE.
A subsequent search of the area determined that the individual had recently entered the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) and participated in a Capitol tour.
At around 2:15 p.m., officers observed the man exiting the Library of Congress following the tour and walking toward his vehicle.
He was intercepted, searched, and taken into custody. A concealed 9mm handgun was discovered in his waistband during the search.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old James A. Faber of Massachusetts, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Unlawful Activities
- Carrying a Pistol Without a License
- Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
- Resisting Arrest
The case is currently under review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Following a review of security footage, it was determined that Faber entered the Capitol Visitor Center through the south checkpoint. Although the magnetometer alarm was triggered, an officer conducted a secondary hand search and subsequently allowed him entry into the building.
As a result of this lapse, the officer involved has been placed on administrative suspension pending an internal investigation by the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility to assess their performance in handling the security screening.
Authorities have stated that, at this time, there is no indication that Faber intended to harm members of Congress or any individuals within the Capitol complex.
In response to the incident, the USCP has ordered a comprehensive review of security protocols and mandated refresher training for all personnel involved in visitor screening to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The United States Capitol Police demands the highest standards in security screening procedures to ensure the safety of all individuals within the Capitol complex. A thorough review is already underway to reinforce our protocols and training,” the agency stated.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with this incident.