Cody A. Balmer, 38, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has accepted a plea deal on Tuesday regarding the firebombing of the governor’s residence earlier this year, which will result in a prison sentence of 25 to 50 years. Balmer pleaded guilty to several serious charges, including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault, and aggravated arson, during proceedings at the Dauphin County courthouse.
The incident occurred on the first night of Passover, a significant Jewish holiday, shortly after Governor Josh Shapiro, who is Jewish, celebrated the occasion with family and friends at the residence. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported from the attack, although the fire caused considerable damage to two rooms in the house, necessitating the evacuation of Governor Shapiro, his wife, and their four children.
As part of the terms of the plea agreement, Balmer is required to pay $100,000 in restitution. During the court session, Balmer appeared in a brown prison jumpsuit, his hands and feet shackled, as he discussed the agreement with his attorney and Dauphin County District Attorney Francis Chardo, who presented surveillance footage of the crime before Balmer formally entered his plea.
This resolution of the case underscores a commitment to justice and the safety of public officials, notably during times of celebration and community gathering.