HARRISBURG, Pa. — A man has pleaded guilty to multiple charges stemming from an incident where he attempted to set fire to the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion.
Cody Balmer, 38, was charged with attempted murder of Governor Josh Shapiro, along with other serious offenses including terrorism, aggravated assault, and 22 counts of arson.
The April 13 attack, which he carried out under the cover of night, resulted in millions of dollars of damage to the state-owned residence.
Under a plea deal, Balmer has been sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison, a significantly reduced sentence compared to what could have been imposed had the case gone to trial.
Balmer chose not to speak to the judge during the proceedings, providing only brief answers to questions.
His defense attorney, Bryan Walk, stated that Balmer is taking full responsibility for his actions and noted that he is facing a significant consequence for his behavior.
Governor Shapiro expressed support for the plea deal, emphasizing its importance in providing accountability for acts of political violence.
The governor’s family had to be evacuated but fortunately, no injuries were reported from the fire that Balmer ignited using beer bottles filled with gasoline.
The multiple charges of arson and endangerment stemmed from the number of individuals present in the mansion at the time, which included guests and state troopers.
Shapiro remarked on the rising trend of political violence, sharing concerns he has heard from global leaders regarding their safety and the fears expressed by potential political candidates about the risks that come with running for office.
He elaborated on the detrimental impact that such violence has on public life, stating, “Why would someone want to do us harm? Our kids will ask. How were they able to get so far into the governor’s residence, a place that is supposed to be the safest place we could possibly be?”
In court, video evidence was presented showing Balmer breaking a window, throwing a Molotov cocktail into a dining room, and using a small sledgehammer to gain entry into the building.
The footage illustrated that Balmer reached a point where he kicked at doors leading to the area where Shapiro and his family were sleeping, although he was unable to break through.
He ignited another fire before exiting the mansion, managing to leave the premises without encountering law enforcement present on the property.
Judge Deborah Curcillo described the video evidence as “horrific” and “very frightening”.
Following the incident, Shapiro and his wife, Lori, shared a victim impact statement in court.
They conveyed feelings of exposure and vulnerability that the attack had inflicted upon them, noting it had left them with a persistent state of fear and anxiety.
Balmer had reportedly told authorities that he intended to harm Shapiro with the sledgehammer had he come face to face with him inside the mansion.
Concern surrounding Balmer’s motives arose following the attack, especially as it took place shortly after the family’s celebration of the Jewish holiday of Passover.
In a letter to The Associated Press, Balmer clarified that the governor’s religion was not a motivating factor for his actions.
“He can be Jewish, Muslim, or a purple people eater for all I care, as long as he leaves me and mine alone,” he wrote.
Balmer’s motives appeared to be more rooted in his outrage over the potential death toll from the war in Gaza.
Court documents indicated he was willing to commit violence in response to that concern.
When asked about the possibility of harming children during his actions, Balmer said he did consider the risk but maintained that he was relieved no one was injured.
His mention of mental health issues has also come to light following the attack.
Balmer’s mother revealed that she had sought help for him but felt that adequate assistance was not available.
Statements presented in court indicated that Balmer had experienced manic episodes, exacerbated by ceasing his medication.
He had previously described himself as an unemployed welder with multiple children, and testimony mentioned the stress that led to a “dark and difficult path” for him.
The governor’s mansion, built in 1968, lacked sprinklers, contributing to the extensive damage caused by Balmer’s fires.
The resulting blaze charred walls and furnishings, damaging multiple interior items and structures in the residence.
As political tensions continue to rise, Shapiro asserted that such violence should not be normalized in the realm of politics, calling for a collective effort to address these threats against public officials.
His ongoing endeavor to assuage his children’s fears following this incident exemplifies the profound impact such acts of violence have on the personal lives of elected officials and their families.
image source from：npr
