In a shocking turn of events, a Cleveland man named Joseph Findley, 43, has been arrested and charged with terrorist attacks against railroad carriers. Findley is accused of attempting to derail trains in Ohio by jamming metal materials into the tracks and rail switches. This discovery was made by CSX train employees after a near-catastrophic derailment in August, according to court documents.
The investigation revealed that the materials found along the tracks matched methods taught by international terrorist groups to make homemade derail devices. The incident quickly raised concerns about the risk of domestic terror attacks. Evidence presented by the FBI and federal prosecutors showed that Findley had allegedly placed obstructions, including tie plates, spikes, and other pieces of metal, between the guardrail and the rail.
The objects and their specific placement indicated a clear understanding of how the tracks and the switch operate, suggesting that Findley had knowledge of disrupting normal operations. Multiple instances of debris being placed on the tracks were reported by CSX work crews, further confirming the deliberate nature of these actions.
Surveillance cameras captured footage of Findley near the tracks on several occasions, wearing distinctive clothing. With the help of nearby store employees, investigators were able to identify Findley and execute a search warrant at his home. The search yielded the clothes seen in the surveillance videos, and Findley allegedly admitted to placing railroad spikes on the tracks.
Findley’s mother, however, denies that her son is a terrorist and attributes his alleged actions to depression caused by job loss and a failed relationship. She believes that the situation has been exaggerated, as her son has never exhibited any violent tendencies.
The potential consequences of Findley’s actions are chilling. The Amtrak train along that line typically carries between 180 and 200 passengers twice per day. The discovery of these attempted derailments highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance and ensuring the safety of railway systems.
The arrest of Joseph Findley serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the need for robust security measures to protect critical infrastructure. Investigations into Findley’s possible motives and any connections to larger terrorist networks are still ongoing.
As this story continues to develop, it serves as a stark reminder that threats to public safety can come from unexpected sources. The diligent work of CSX train employees and law enforcement agencies has potentially averted a major disaster. Their efforts should be commended, and the public should remain vigilant in reporting any suspicious activities that could jeopardize the safety of transportation systems.
