The FBI has made a record-breaking seizure of homemade explosives on a Virginia farm, raising concerns about domestic security and the potential for violence.
At a Glance
- FBI discovered over 150 homemade explosive devices on a Virginia farm
- Brad Spafford arrested for possessing an unregistered short barrel rifle
- Explosives found in various locations, including a wearable vest
- Prosecutors argue Spafford is a danger, while defense cites lack of criminal record
- Judge ruled for house arrest, but Spafford remains detained pending further arguments
Record-Breaking Explosive Cache Uncovered
In a shocking discovery, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has uncovered what they claim to be the largest cache of homemade explosive devices in the agency’s history. The find occurred on a 20-acre farm in Virginia, owned by Brad Spafford, who was initially arrested on December 17 for allegedly possessing an unregistered short barrel rifle.
The scale of the discovery is unprecedented, with over 150 homemade improvised explosive devices, mostly pipe bombs, found on the property. Some of these devices were labeled “lethal” and were preloaded into a wearable vest, raising alarming questions about their intended use.
Dangerous Materials in Unexpected Places
The investigation revealed that explosive devices were not confined to a single location on the property. They were discovered in various places, including a detached garage and a backpack in a bedroom. Perhaps most concerning was the presence of HMTD, a highly unstable explosive material, found in Spafford’s freezer next to food items.
“Even after losing his own fingers as a result of his homemade explosive materials, he made the apparent remarkable decision to keep an extraordinarily dangerous explosive material in the home’s freezer next to food items that could be accessed by the entire family,” prosecutors said.
This reckless storage of dangerous materials highlights the potential risks not only to Spafford but also to his family and the surrounding community.
Allegations of Extremist Views
The investigation into Spafford’s activities began after a neighbor reported concerning behavior, including the stockpiling of weapons and an incident where Spafford lost three fingers. Further investigation uncovered allegations of extreme political views and troubling behavior.
Prosecutors claim that Spafford used photos of President Biden for target practice and expressed other extreme political views. They also allege that he discussed fortifying his property with a turret and a 50-caliber rifle, raising concerns about his intentions.
Legal Battle Unfolds
As the case moves forward, a legal battle is shaping up between prosecutors and Spafford’s defense team. Prosecutors argue that Spafford poses an extreme danger to the community and should remain in custody. They have indicated that additional charges related to the explosives may be forthcoming.
On the other hand, Spafford’s attorneys are pushing for his release, citing his lack of criminal record and absence of any history of substance abuse or mental illness. They argue that there is no evidence of Spafford planning violence and question the usability of the explosive devices found.
“There is not a shred of evidence in the record that Mr. Spafford ever threatened anyone and the contention that someone might be in danger because of their political views and comments is nonsensical,” his lawyers countered.
A federal judge has ruled that Spafford could be released to house arrest, but he remains detained pending further arguments from the government. As the case continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public safety and national security.
