Largest Seizure of Homemade Explosive Devices in FBI History
A Virginia man was arrested after federal authorities found a cache of homemade explosive devices, some of which were marked as "lethal," at his home. This marks the largest seizure by number of finished explosive devices in FBI history, officials said.
Arrest and Charges
Authorities took Brad Spafford into custody on December 17 at a farm in Smithfield, about 29 miles northwest of Norfolk. He was charged with unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle, according to court filings.
FBI Discovery
FBI agents found the rifle along with "a stockpile of more than 150 homemade improvised explosive devices, assessed as pipe bombs," during a search of his home. The devices were found in a detached garage, where the FBI also found tools and manufacturing materials, including homemade fuses and pieces of PVC pipe.
Markings and Symbolism
Some of the devices were marked "lethal." The phrase "#nolivesmatter" was written outside a backpack in the home’s bedroom, which was completely unsecured. No Lives Matter is an extremist ideology that promotes mass killings, criminal activity, and targeted attacks.
Other Findings
The FBI also found a jar labeled "Dangerous" and "Do Not Touch" next to what appeared to be Hot Pockets and other food items in the freezer. Spafford allegedly told authorities that he kept a jar of an explosive material that is so unstable it can explode as a result of friction or temperature changes.
Support for Political Assassinations
Prosecutors said Spafford used images of the president for target practice, "expressed support for political assassinations, and recently sought qualifications in sniper-rifle shooting at a local range."
Release Considerations
Prosecutors argued that Spafford’s release poses an "extreme danger" to the people he lives with, the community, and "the pretrial officers who will be tasked with periodically inspecting his residence for firearms including dangerous and unstable explosives."
Investigation
The investigation into Spafford began last year when a source told authorities that Spafford had disfigured his hand while working with a homemade explosive device. The source also said that Spafford was stockpiling weapons and homemade ammunition.
Conclusion
The seizure of over 150 homemade explosive devices is a significant concern for authorities, and the investigation is ongoing. The court will determine whether Spafford’s release poses a danger to the community and whether he will be held without bail.
FAQs
Q: What was the total number of homemade explosive devices seized?
A: Over 150 homemade improvised explosive devices, assessed as pipe bombs.
Q: What was the location of the arrest?
A: A farm in Smithfield, Virginia, about 29 miles northwest of Norfolk.
Q: What was Spafford charged with?
A: Unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle.
Q: What was the significance of the phrase "#nolivesmatter" found at the scene?
A: The phrase is associated with the extremist ideology No Lives Matter, which promotes mass killings, criminal activity, and targeted attacks.
