Authorities have arrested a man from Virginia after the FBI found an enormous stock of explosives and ammunition at his home.
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Brad Spafford from Smithfield was originally charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm. Investigators found the explosive devices, including pipe bombs, when they searched the property.
According to NBC, prosecutors described the stockpile as "the largest seizure of homemade explosives in bureau history." NBC reporters explain that court documents say Spafford is an "extreme danger to the community." Prosecutors say he had over 150 pipe bombs with some "pre-loaded into a wearable vest." The prosecution is trying to keep him in jail.
Authorities found more pipe bombs in a backpack in the bedroom. Court filing photos show jars labeled with "Do Not Touch" and "Dangerous" alongside regular food in the freezer.
According to Court documents, Spafford is currently only being charged with ownership of an unregistered short-barrel rifle. The court documents also explain that "Spafford informed the CHS that he has a short barrel rifle, "which is not registered because he doesn't believe in registration." The documents also allege that Spafford made up to 50 rounds of ammunition per day.
Prosecutors have argued to the judge that he "should not be released on bond" because of the danger he poses.
The documents also allege: 'The defendant has used pictures of the President for target practice, expressed support for political assassinations, and recently sought qualifications in sniper-rifle shooting at a local range.'
The Investigation In Virginia Has Been Active For At Least A Year
The NBC reporter explains that a neighbor "became interested in him (Spafford)" when they learned he had lost several fingers while handling homemade explosives. This discovery ultimately led to the neighbor tipping off the FBI in secret. The FBI has been building a case against Spafford for a while and found the explosives when they received a warrant to search the property.
Spafford's lawyer hasn't released a statement regarding the explosive stockpile found at the residence. However, they have stated that the idea that their client is dangerous and an anti-government extremist is overblown.
