Skyler Philippi, 24, had plans to “shock the system.” So he decided to orchestrate a devastating attack on the energy infrastructure in Nashville. Reportedly, he was planning on using a drone to drop explosives on a Nashville electricity substation.
CNN reports that Philippi had ties to a white nationalist group. He had been on the FBI’s watchlist for months. The FBI had reportedly assigned an undercover operative to Philippi, not only to understand the white nationalist’s plans but also his motives.
Philippi had reportedly acquired explosives and extensively surveyed the Nashville electricity substation until he concluded that he would need a drone to carry out his plan. Investigators informed the public that Philippi was being motivated by unspecified violent ideologies and apparently “wanted to do something big.” This, they said, would have been one of the worst cases of domestic terrorism. Something that the Donald Trump administration was previously suspected of being unable to handle.
The FBI director has had a very controversial stint at the top of one of the most critical agencies in the nation, but this is certainly one of his biggest achievements. Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee added a final statement on the case, saying, “Our office is fully committed to thwarting dangerous attacks motivated by hate.”
It is a very trying time in the nation right now. The assassination of Charlie Kirk has sparked important discussions about how Americans need to express their differences. Cases like this show how ideology can quickly descend into acts of violence. It is vital for the FBI to remain in a position where they can make sure each and every American feels safe.
Philippi is from Columbia, Tennessee, and he was federally charged by the Middle District of Tennessee for attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and attempting to destroy an energy facility. He pled guilty right away and is scheduled to face sentencing on Jan. 8.
As more details of Philippi’s crime started to emerge, it was confirmed that he was flying a drone with a three-pound bomb attached to C-4 plastic explosives. Undercover FBI agents reportedly watched him right up until he attached the bomb, even pretending to act as lookouts as he finalized his plan. From an evidence standpoint, the FBI seemingly presented an undoubtable case to the prosecutor. They even reportedly handed in the drone as evidence.
Philippi is reportedly a member of several white supremacist groups that intend on “eradicating the Jews,” among other goals. These groups believe that if they succeed in attacking vital energy systems and infrastructure in the U.S., they will be closer to disrupting normalcy, creating chaos, and gaining some control.
Initially, Philippi had pleaded not guilty, claiming that the FBI had violated his due process rights. He eventually changed his stance. This is one of the most trying moments in American history. Law enforcement agencies get their fair share of criticism for all the missteps they have made over the years, but it is moments like this when they reassure the public that they are vital and can bring positive effects when they focus on criminals.
