A Stoneham resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly using an explosive device to damage an ATM in Woburn, Massachusetts. The indictment was issued on November 20, 2025.
Christopher Silva, 43, faces one count of maliciously damaging by means of an explosive real property used in and affecting interstate commerce. He was initially arrested and charged by complaint in October 2025 and remains in custody as he awaits trial. Silva is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court in Boston on December 9, 2025.
According to charging documents, the incident occurred shortly after 4:00 a.m. on September 4, 2025. Silva allegedly approached an Eastern Bank ATM while wearing a blue balaclava and black jumpsuit. He is accused of placing an explosive device on the machine before fleeing the scene. The device detonated several seconds later, causing significant damage to the ATM’s frame and lower right section. Authorities report that Silva was identified through DNA evidence and surveillance footage.
The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine that could reach $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge according to U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutes.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley stated: “The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.” Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Boston Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; as well as local police departments from Woburn and Stoneham assisted with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allegra Flamm from the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.