Albert Lea Man Accused of Making a Bomb That Caused the Evacuation of the Freeborn County Government Center Appears in Court

An Albert Lea man accused of making a pipe bomb that led to an evacuation of the Freeborn County Government Center appeared in court Thursday.

The appearance on Thursday, known as a Rule 8 hearing, was to inform 48 year old Adam Penhollow, of his rights, including thr right to counsel, ensure the defendant had a copy of the complaint or indictment, allow defendants to plead guilty, request or waive an Omnibus Hearing and give the defendant the right to hire a lawyer or public defender.

Penhollow faces seven charges including possession of a dangerous weapon and transporting an explosive device.

On July 5th, Penhollow was arrested on traffic charges.

After a search of his vehicle, a lock box was found that Albert Lea Police took to the Freeborn County Government Center.

Once it was searched, officers found a pipe bomb and controlled substances.  The building was then evacuated before the St. Paul bomb squad helped remove the device.

Penhollow is being held on a $200,000 unconditional bond or a $100,000 bond with conditions in the Freeborn County Jail.

His omnibus hearing is scheduled for August 7th in Freeborn County Court.