Potential Extremist? FBI Finds Record-Breaking Stockpile of Bombs in Virginia Man’s Garage
A Virginia man’s home turned into a bomb factory—150 explosive devices seized, raising fears of political violence and domestic extremism. 🌐 #News #IsleOfWightCountyVA #Virginia #Crime
ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY, VA – Federal agents in Virginia uncovered a staggering cache of over 150 homemade pipe bombs at a residence in Isle of Wight County. Authorities have described the seizure as the largest haul of improvised explosives ever recorded by the FBI, sparking serious concerns about potential extremist activity.
Discovery and Arrest Details
The investigation began with the arrest of 36-year-old Brad Spafford in December on a firearms-related charge. When federal agents searched his property on December 17, they discovered the massive collection of explosive devices, prompting prosecutors to call it an unprecedented public safety threat. Spafford lived at the residence with his wife and two children.
Law enforcement was tipped off by an informant who had been a friend of Spafford. The informant reported that Spafford suffered a severe hand injury in 2021 while working with explosives, leaving him with only two fingers on one hand. Authorities were also informed of Spafford’s alarming statements, including his apparent support for political violence and assassination attempts.
Evidence Found at the Scene
During the search, investigators found most of the pipe bombs stored in a detached garage. Some devices were found unsecured in a backpack inside the house, while others were preloaded into a wearable vest. Additional bomb-making materials, such as fuses and PVC pipes, were also confiscated.
In one particularly disturbing discovery, agents found a jar of the highly sensitive explosive HMTD stored in a freezer alongside food items. Due to the instability of certain explosives, bomb technicians had to detonate several devices on-site.
Agents also recovered a short-barrel rifle from the property, leading to a charge under the National Firearms Act for possession of an unregistered firearm.
Allegations of Extremist Views
Court filings revealed that Spafford had allegedly voiced extremist views, including support for political violence. Prosecutors presented evidence that he used images of President Joe Biden for target practice and expressed a desire to see political assassinations reinstated. The informant further reported that Spafford made disturbing comments following a failed assassination attempt on a political leader, suggesting that future attackers should not miss Vice President Kamala Harris.
Spafford’s neighbors also reported that he frequently shared conspiracy theories, including claims about missing children being abducted by the government for nefarious purposes.
Legal Defense and Next Steps
Spafford’s attorneys have argued that there is no concrete evidence showing he intended to harm anyone. They emphasized that professional technicians had to modify the seized devices to make them functional. Defense lawyers further asserted that while Spafford’s remarks were controversial, they fell under the protections of free speech.
Initially, a federal magistrate judge approved Spafford’s release under house arrest at his mother’s home. However, prosecutors appealed this decision, citing concerns that he posed a serious threat to public safety. A preliminary hearing is set for January 3, where additional charges may be brought against Spafford.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is continuing to investigate Spafford’s activities. Authorities are working to determine whether he had any connections to organized extremist groups and whether the explosives were intended for use in criminal acts.
Prosecutors have indicated that further charges may be added as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, Spafford remains in custody, pending the outcome of the upcoming hearing.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Virginia
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