DETROIT — A retired miner accused of leaving pipe bombs and threatening letters across northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula was sentenced to more than six years in federal prison Wednesday in a case that raised fears of an imminent domestic terror attack.
John Douglas Allen, 76, of Whittemore was sentenced to 75 months by U.S. District Judge Thomas Ludington in Bay City more than one year after he was arrested following an FBI investigation involving makeshift bombs, coded letters and surveillance cameras. The unique nature of the crimes coincided with an increased focus by federal agents on domestic violent extremism and high-profile crimes, including the plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Prosecutors allege Allen planted bombs at cell towers because he was upset telecommunications companies broadcast pornography, cursing and "immoral content."
