Feds Charge Man For Having Molotov Cocktail In Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — Federal charges have been filed after a man was allegedly in possession of a homemade firebomb, better known as a Molotov cocktail, in Philadelphia on New Year's Eve.

Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams said Jacob Dean Robotin, 25, of Willow Grove, have been charged with possessing an unregistered destructive device.

Robotin was taken into custody by the FBI Tuesday but released on conditions which were not made available.

According to the criminal complaint, a large group vandalized the Federal Detention Center, the Robert C. Nix Federal Building, and other property in Center City Philadelphia by spraypainting, setting off fireworks, and breaking windows.

Police stopped three members of the group, one of which was Robotin, nearby and found Robotin in possession of a glass bottle containing liquid and fuses, along with some tape inside, authorities said.

Officers noticed that the glass bottle had a heavy odor of flammable liquid and Robotin had more fuses, lighters, camping heat sources, and fireworks, among other items in his backpack, according to authorities.

If convicted, he faces a maximum possible sentence of 10 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.

"Homemade Molotov cocktails can be incredibly dangerous," Williams said. "Here, the defendant is alleged to have carried all of the materials needed to endanger the lives of many people. Luckily, Philadelphia Police arrested Robotin before anyone was hurt. Let this case serve as a warning to others who might consider acting in a similar way – possession of a Molotov cocktail is not protected speech nor harmless hijinks; it is a serious federal crime."