by A 41-year-old Des Moines man has been arrested and charged after two pipe bomb-style improvised explosive devices were discovered at Waveland Golf Course, prompting temporary closure and a bomb squad response.
- Michael James Valento, 41, is facing five criminal charges, including four felonies, in connection to the discovery and detonation of pipe bombs
- One pipe bomb was detonated on July 3 at Waveland Golf Course, according to police
- A second live device was found by golfers on July 10, leading to the course’s temporary closure
- The Des Moines Police Bomb Squad rendered the second device safe after about an hour
- The second bomb was found in an area not commonly accessed by golfers
Charges Valento Faces:
- Two counts of possession of an explosive or incendiary device with intent (Class C felonies)
- Arson – 1st Degree (Class B felony)
- Arson – 3rd Degree (Aggravated misdemeanor)
- Dominion or control of a firearm/offensive weapon by a domestic abuse offender (Class D felony)
- Police served a search warrant at Valento’s residence on July 11, located roughly a mile from the golf course
- Valento was arrested nearby shortly after midnight and is currently being held in Polk County Jail
Authorities continue to investigate Valento’s motives and any potential additional threats.
