Omaha, Nebraska – In a formal announcement, Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr disclosed that Willie Harbour, 61, from Omaha, faced sentencing in Omaha’s federal court for his unlawful possession of an explosive device, given his previous felony record.
On August 2, 2022, in the early hours, an explosive device was strategically placed by Harbour near the entrance of an apartment in Benson Towers, a property overseen by the Omaha Housing Authority. The subsequent detonation led to significant property damage. This included the malfunction of an overhead sprinkler system, light fixtures, and considerable distortion to a metal door frame, which unfortunately confined the apartment’s occupant.
Surveillance footage procured from Benson Towers captured Harbour in the act of initiating and placing the device. Upon detention, Harbour conceded to the act, confirming his involvement in the incident at Benson Towers.
Presiding over the case, United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher handed down a verdict of nearly five years of incarceration for Harbour. Following his sentence, a mandatory three-year supervised release period awaits him. It’s essential to note that the federal judicial system does not entertain parole. The diligent investigative efforts in this case were spearheaded by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, in collaboration with the City of Omaha Fire Department.
