COLUMBIA, S.C. – Prosecutors have dropped a major federal charge against an 18-year-old South Carolina teen accused of plotting an attack against his high school. The teen still faces three other federal offenses.
Ryan Schallenberger was arrested April 19 after his parents discovered a package addressed to him containing 20 pounds of ammonium nitrate, which is a material commonly used to create bombs. Police then searched his residence and discovered other bomb-making materials.
Originally, Schallenberger was accused of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction, which would have given him life in prison if convicted. However, the charge was dropped, although prosecutors have not explained the reasons for their actions.
The suspect faces three other federal explosive charges that carry a maximum sentence of 40 years. Additionally, Schallenberger faces state charges.
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