WASHINGTON (AP) — A Virginia man made his first court appearance on charges related to the planting of pipe bombs outside the national headquarters of the Republican and Democratic parties. This act took place on the eve of the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Brian Cole Jr., 30, was ordered by U.S. Magistrate Moxila Upadhyaya to remain in custody following his arrest on explosives charges. His next court date is set for December 15, where a detention hearing will take place. Cole did not enter a plea during this appearance.

According to a federal affidavit, investigators were able to identify Cole as a suspect through an analysis of credit card purchases associated with materials used to build the explosives, as well as data from cellphone towers and a license plate reader. Reports suggest that during interviews with FBI agents, Cole confessed to the January 5 act and revealed his belief that the 2020 election was stolen, expressing support for then-President Donald Trump. These details were shared by two individuals familiar with the ongoing investigation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.}