Man Charged in PA Governor’s Residence Arson Case

A Pennsylvania man faces multiple charges after his arrest for allegedly setting fire to the governor’s residence in April 2025. The building sustained damage, although media reports have said no one was injured.

At both the federal and state levels, arson convictions carry serious penalties, including significant jail time. These cases can also have additional charges, especially if anyone is injured.

The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team works with individuals charged with federal and Pennsylvania state crimes. We help our clients understand their options and build a strong defense against the accusations against them. Call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.

Millions of Dollars in Damages

In the early hours of April 13, Cody Balmer allegedly scaled the 7-foot fence that surrounds the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence. While Balmer did trip an alarm, authorities say that he had enough time to get to the residence and throw two lit gas-filled bottles into it. Police have said they have video footage of Balmer on the property.

The fire occurred only hours after Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family hosted a Passover Seder. Shapiro is Jewish, and authorities have not publicly disclosed if they believe the crime was religiously motivated. Firefighters evacuated Shapiro and his family, as well as guests, without any injuries.

The residence suffered extensive damage, estimated to be in the millions of dollars. Balmer’s family has since claimed he suffers from mental illness, which Balmer denies.

Arson as a Federal and State Crime

Arson can be either a state or federal crime. For both, it’s a serious crime that carries heavy penalties if convicted.

As of April 2025, Balmer has been charged by the state of Pennsylvania. While the governor’s residence is a government building, it’s owned by the state of Pennsylvania.

While federal arson laws cover all government-owned buildings, they generally refer to buildings that the federal government owns. Federal arson laws also cover buildings involved in interstate or international commerce. For example, if Balmer had set fire to a bank, he would likely be facing federal arson charges.

Balmer currently faces charges from the state of Pennsylvania, and federal authorities have not yet said if he will face any federal charges. In Pennsylvania, the majority of arson cases are either first or second-degree felonies. If arson causes the loss of life, and if someone is convicted, they face life in prison without parole or the death penalty.

For both federal and state arson cases, individuals may face additional charges beyond arson. In Balmer’s case, he faces attempted criminal homicide, aggravated arson, burglary, and terrorism charges.

In Pennsylvania, aggravated arson is a first-degree felony. To convict a defendant of aggravated arson, the DA must show that the defendant intended to start a fire or explosion.

Protect Your Future

Arson and related charges are serious crimes that can permanently and significantly affect your life and your future. Individuals charged with arson shouldn’t rely on authorities uncovering all relevant evidence.

If you’re facing federal or state arson charges, contact the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team. Call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.