Authorities have apprehended a man in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, as part of a counterterrorism probe involving multiple levels of law enforcement. The man, identified as 24-year-old Saleh Edwards, faces charges related to the attempted possession or creation of weapons of mass destruction.
The Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office has announced the charges against Edwards, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of local, state, and federal agencies in the investigation.
The investigation was initiated after officials were alerted to suspicious activities at a residence on Saint Clair Street in Wilkes-Barre. This led to a coordinated response from the District Attorney’s Office, Wilkes-Barre City Police, and the FBI.
FBI special agents, in conjunction with county detectives and local police, executed a court-sanctioned search at Edwards’ residence on Sunday, gathering evidence pertinent to the case.
The property, which is allegedly linked to Edwards, is situated in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. This location has become central to the investigation into the terror-related charges. (Source: Google Maps)
As the investigation continues, court documents pertaining to the case remain sealed, limiting public access to specific details about the allegations.
According to WNEP in Scranton, key court records remain sealed, limiting public details about what investigators found during the search of Edwards’ home. The documents could remain sealed until a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled for Jan. 5.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Sanguedolce for additional information about the investigation.
A photo of Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce speaking at a press conference. (Sam Sanguedolce For DA via Facebook)
Sanguedolce told WNEP he would not discuss a possible motive or say whether investigators believe Edwards constructed or used an explosive device. It was unclear whether Edwards had retained an attorney.
The DA also said the investigation began after a neighbor on Saint Clair Street reported suspicious activity at the residence.
Inside a courtroom with gavel in plain view. (iStock)
Edwards was arraigned on Sunday evening by Magisterial District Judge Donald L. Whittaker, who denied bail, citing concerns the defendant posed a danger to the public.
Court records show Edwards remains held at the county jail.
Court filings reportedly reviewed by WNEP show the district attorney’s office submitted at least one arrest warrant under seal Sunday. Luzerne County President Judge Stefanie J. Salavantis approved a 60-day sealing order.
Authorities blocked off Saint Clair Street as Wilkes-Barre police, county detectives and FBI special agents executed the search warrant.
