FOND DU LAC, WI — Caiden Sage Stachowicz made an initial court appearance today in connection to a January 19, 2025, arson attack on U.S. Congressman Glenn Grothman’s district office in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The charges stem from allegations that Stachowicz set the fire in retaliation for Congressman Grothman’s vote in favor of legislation requiring the sale of the popular social media app TikTok.
Stachowicz faces charges of arson, terrorist threats, attempted burglary, and criminal damage to property. During the court proceedings, a cash bond of $500,000 was set, and a preliminary hearing has been scheduled for January 30, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Tricia Walker.
District Attorney Eric J. Toney commended the rapid response of local authorities. “We are grateful for the quick actions of the Fond du Lac Police and Fire Departments that ensured nobody was injured in this attack and prevented more significant property damage,” Toney said in a statement. “We will continue to aggressively prosecute anyone that attempts to intimidate government officials from performing their lawful duties, regardless of whether we agree with the government action.”
The incident, which occurred in the early morning hours, is being investigated by the City of Fond du Lac Police Department with support from the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to contact Detective Vance Henning at 920-322-3725.
No injuries were reported, but the attack has raised concerns about escalating threats to government officials over policy decisions. Further details about the case will be addressed during the upcoming preliminary hearing.
Read the Criminal Complaint
Last Update: Jan 22, 2025 12:47 pm CST
