FBI arrests 2 'extremists' in alleged power grid attack plot targeting 5 substations

Sarah Beth Clendaniel with her weapon and swastika

Baltimore, MD -- The FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office announced they have arrested a man and a woman with extremist views who are alleged to have attempted to attack the power grid in Maryland. The FBI told the media they believe this was a "real threat" but it has been thwarted.

One suspect, Sarah Beth Clendaniel, of Catonsville, MD, allegedly told an  FBI confidential source that she planned to target five substations including in Norrisville, Reisterstown and Perry Hall, according to the Baltimore Banner. 

If they were hit in the same day, she allegedly said "it would completely destroy this whole city," according to charging documents. It appears that she doesn't like strangers very much.

Miss Clendaniel is accused of collaborating with Brandon Clint Russell of Orlando, FL on the plot, FOX 5 DC reported.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, Erek L. Barron and FBI Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Sobocinski announced the federal criminal complaint charging the dynamic duo of dirtbags with conspiracy to destroy an energy facility. 

The pair was scheduled for an immediate appearance on Monday.

“This alleged planned attack threatened lives and would have left thousands of Marylanders in the cold and dark,” Barron said. “We are united and committed to using every legal means necessary to disrupt violence, including hate-fueled attacks.”

But not Chinese "weather balloons."

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