The FBI discovered what they have described as the largest cache of "finished explosive devices" in their history at the home of Brad Spafford in Virginia earlier this month. This seizure occurred during an arrest on December 17, where Spafford was initially charged with unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle. During the search of Spafford's 20-acre farm in Isle of Wight County, investigators found more than 150 homemade improvised explosive devices, primarily identified as pipe bombs, some of which were marked as "lethal."
These devices were found in various locations including a detached garage and inside the home in an unsecured backpack. Additional findings included bomb-making materials like fuses and pieces of PVC pipe, and a particularly unstable explosive material known as HMTD, which was stored in a freezer next to food items. Spafford allegedly used photos of President Joe Biden for target practice and expressed extreme views, including support for political assassinations and the hope that Vice President Kamala Harris would be assassinated.
The investigation into Spafford began after a neighbor, who used to be in law enforcement, reported his activities following an incident where Spafford lost three fingers in 2021 while handling explosives. This led to a detailed investigation culminating in the December raid. The case has drawn significant attention due to the scale of the explosives found, with federal prosecutors arguing for Spafford to remain in custody, citing him as an "extreme danger to the community."
Spafford's defense has countered by stating there's no evidence he intended to use the devices for harm and highlighted his lack of criminal history. Legal proceedings are ongoing, with discussions about Spafford's detention status, including arguments for his release under house arrest. The situation underscores heightened concerns about domestic security and personal weapon manufacturing.
Comments