A man arrested for allegedly leaving bomb threats at a Racine County business last week apparently just wanted a few days off to celebrate Halloween.
Notes were found at the Poclain Hydraulics facility on October 29 and again on Oct. 31, indicating that an explosive had been planted in the building. Both times, the facility was evacuated and other businesses in the Grandview Business Park were put on alert, but no explosives were found.
According to court documents, the distinct style of handwriting on the notes was similar to that of 28-year-old Jacob Vanderhoef of Racine. Investigators say he admitted leaving the notes, saying he wanted Halloween off, but didn’t have any vacation time left. He had hoped management would shut down the plant for a few days because of the threats.
Vanderhoef is now facing two counts of making a bomb scare. In convicted of both charges, he could face up to seven years in prison.
Janet Hoff, WRJN