An Ogden, Utah, man is facing a range of federal charges, including attempting to commit a hate crime, after allegedly making threats to bomb a synagogue.
Skyler AJ Rose, 22, was indicted by a federal grand jury on Wednesday. The charges detailed by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Utah include possession of an unregistered destructive device, threatening to kill or injure individuals and demolish a structure with an explosive, and attempting to commit a hate crime, among other offenses.
“There is no place for hate motivated violence—attempts or otherwise—in our communities. A place of worship should be a refuge of safety, not fear,” stated U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak for the District of Utah. “Thanks to the dedicated work of the FBI and the outstanding efforts of our local police partners, these alleged threats were identified and stopped before anyone was harmed. Let these charges serve as a clear warning: if you attack or attempt to attack a place of worship, you will face the full force of the federal government.”
Investigation Uncovers Alleged Online Threats and Explosives
According to court documents, Rose allegedly posted multiple threatening messages on social media on December 23, 2025. Prosecutors indicated that one of these posts explicitly stated, “I wanna blow up a synagogue.”
An investigation was initiated, which revealed that the posts originated from an IP address linked to Rose’s residence. The FBI subsequently contacted the Ogden City Police Department for assistance. During a home visit, authorities reportedly confirmed that the social media handle belonged to Rose.
Investigators then executed a search warrant at the property. During the search, they reportedly discovered six improvised explosive pipe bombs and one inert device. Additionally, explosive precursors and components, which officials believe could be used to construct more improvised explosive pipe bombs, were recovered. Authorities also seized a black Samsung cellphone and two rifles, along with their magazines and ammunition.
A subsequent forensic examination of Rose’s cellphone allegedly revealed that he had conducted online searches for synagogues located near him in November 2025.
“Today’s indictment stops in its tracks an alleged plan to carry out a violent attack on a synagogue,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will take decisive action to protect American worshippers from violent threats, no matter where they occur.”
Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls of the Salt Lake City FBI emphasized, “no one should have to fear for their safety because of their faith.” He added, “Every person deserves to worship freely, without threats, intimidation, or fear. The FBI takes every threat seriously. Thanks to the swift, seamless collaboration with our law enforcement partners, we were able to address the threat and protect lives from potential physical harm.”
Additional Charges Include Child Sexual Abuse Material
The investigation further uncovered evidence of child sexual abuse material on Rose’s cellphone. Prosecutors allege that hundreds of cached images and screenshots depicting child sexual abuse material were found. As a result, Rose was also indicted on charges related to the receipt and possession of child pornography.
Rose is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court in Salt Lake City on October 23.
