A California man, Kimani Osayande Jones, also known as Kimani Osayande Jackson, faces federal charges after allegedly attempting to pass through security at Sacramento International Airport with an explosive device. Authorities say this incident occurred while Jones was preparing to board a flight to North Carolina.

Charges and Allegations

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California charged Jones, 49, from Sacramento, with unlawfully possessing explosive material in an airport. Court documents reveal that Jones attempted to pass a Transportation Security Administration checkpoint at the airport around 9 p.m. on May 30. He was preparing for American Airlines Flight 2464, scheduled to fly from Sacramento to Charlotte, North Carolina.

Security and Discovery

Authorities claim Jones wore a scarf over his face and blue latex gloves at the security checkpoint. A federal complaint includes a photo showing the explosive device found in Jones’ carry-on luggage. The search revealed an M-type explosive device, a torch lighter, a knife, scissors, a scissor blade, an aerosol can, and zip ties.

The device was described as a brown cylindrical object about 2.5 inches long, with a green fuse protruding from one end.

Upon questioning, Jones initially claimed he was unaware of the items in his bag and offered to discard them. Officers explained the seriousness of possessing explosive devices, leading Jones to deny ownership of the backpack. Authorities arrested him at the airport while bomb technicians secured the area and safely removed the device.

Further Investigation

In addition to the device, Jones was found with five cellphones, each with tape covering the front-facing cameras. One phone had a 15-minute timer set to start, and another displayed a message from an unidentified number, stating a party awaited his call.

Bomb technicians tested the device. Prosecutors report that investigators determined the powder and fuse were viable and energetic. The device contained about 9.29 grams of powder, believed to be pyrotechnic or flash powder. Laboratory testing remains pending.

According to court documents, the device had the potential to inflict serious injury. Detonating it at high altitude beside a window could damage the aircraft and possibly cause cabin pressure loss.

Authorities’ Action

Jones’ checked luggage was screened and loaded onto the flight before his arrest. Upon arrival in North Carolina, the luggage was inspected by explosive-detection dogs and investigators, who found nothing suspicious.

Federal investigators believe Jones contacted them multiple times before his arrest, alleging threats and surveillance. The FBI received about 13 such reports linked to Jones.

Jones chose to remain silent post-arrest, opting against an interview with investigators. A second court filing remains under seal.

Potential Consequences

If convicted, Jones may face up to five years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to two years of supervised release.

Stepheny Price, a writer at Fox News, covers West Coast and Midwest news, crime stories, and border security.