MIT student arrested with “fake bomb” - updated

An MIT student wearing what turned out to be a fake bomb was arrested at gunpoint Friday at Logan International Airport and later claimed it was artwork, officials said. [Emphases added. -c]

You really have to read the whole article. I appreciate journalistic care that must be used when describing crimes—actions are “alleged” until proven guilty—but the diction and charges greatly imply there was intent on the student’s part to deceive with the device.

The battery-powered rectangular device had nine flashing lights, and Simpson had Play-Doh in her hands.

You’d think a legit bomber might be able to reduce the number of flashing lights to three or four. You know, for stealthiness.

AP article on MIT student’s “hoax bomb” via schneier

Update

How should the lede have read? Maybe something like this:

An MIT student wearing what authorities believed to be a bomb was arrested at gunpoint Friday at Logan International Airport and when questioned asserted it was artwork.