Federal Charges Filed Against Man Accused Of Leaving Explosives Near A Downtown Pittsburgh Building

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Federal charges have been filed against Matthew Michanowicz, according to the Department of Justice.

Michanowicz, 52, has been charged with illegal possession of an unregistered destructive device, according to the United States Attorney Scott Brady. Michanowicz was accused by Pittsburgh Police of leaving a backpack of explosives next to a downtown Pittsburgh building.

"Once again, we see that certain participants in the protests in Pittsburgh were only present to serve as agitators and to incite violence. Let's call them what they are: criminals," Brady said. "They have no intention of peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights; they seek only to incite and destroy. Michanowicz brought a backpack full of homemade Molotov cocktails to downtown Pittsburgh. He wasn't there to protest; he was there to engage in violent attacks. I hope that any organizers or protestors who are participating consistent with the First Amendment will help identify and stop agitators who seek to manipulate their protest for violent ends. Rest assured that we stand ready to prosecute such provocateurs federally."

Local police had initially received reports of a suspicious package near PNC Plaza on Monday. According to Pittsburgh Police, surveillance footage showed the suspect leave the backpack there on Sunday.

If convicted, Michanowicz could face 10 years in prison and receive a maximum fine of $250,000.

Stay with KDKA as we follow this developing story.