Father charged with attempted murder of prominent Idaho Falls attorney
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IDAHO FALLS — A Caldwell man was arrested Nov. 16 after trying to kill his son, Bryan Smith, an Idaho Falls attorney and vice chairman of the Bonneville County Republican Central Committee.
Dale Smith, 79, was charged with attempted first-degree murder, first-degree stalking, possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of a destructive device or bomb. All charges are felonies.
Police reports show at about 8 p.m. Bryan Smith called authorities to report a suspicious vehicle near his residence.
Bonneville County Sheriff deputies arrived and discovered Dale Smith in the vehicle. It was determined Dale was in violation of a protection order between the father and the son, according to a news release.
Deputies also discovered fictitious plates with the vehicle, cash, weapons and a note indicating he may have intended to harm Bryan. Dale also advised of World War II grenades in his vehicle. Detectives with the bomb unit were able to recover and secure the devices, according to Sheriff’s spokesman Bryan Lovell.
A detective also interviewed Dale and he admitted having a plan to kill Bryan.
Dale was arrested and booked into Bonneville County Jail. His vehicle was impounded as evidence.
Smith was arraigned on Nov. 17 in Bonneville County court. His bond was set at $500,000.
He is set to appear in court again on Dec. 1.