FBI Conducts Historic Seizure of Homemade Explosives in Virginia
The FBI has made a significant breakthrough in a case that has been described as the largest seizure of homemade explosives in the agency's history. A 36-year-old man from Virginia, identified as Brad Spafford, was arrested on December 17 after federal agents conducted a search of his property in Smithfield, located approximately 29 miles northwest of Norfolk. The raid was prompted by allegations surrounding the possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle.
During the investigation, authorities uncovered a staggering stockpile of over 150 homemade explosive devices, some of which were labeled as 'lethal.' These explosives were primarily stored in a detached garage on Spafford's 20-acre farm, while others were reportedly preloaded into a wearable vest. Additional explosive materials were found in a backpack in his bedroom, which was decorated with a hand grenade patch and a controversial phrase.
Recent court documents reveal that Spafford had expressed extreme anti-government sentiments and exhibited a desire to engage in political violence, including references to political assassinations. An FBI detective involved in the case testified that Spafford harbored dangerous beliefs and had made troubling comments about political figures.
The investigation into Spafford began in 2021 when a confidential informant alerted authorities to his activities, stating that he had previously injured himself while handling homemade explosives and was stockpiling weapons and ammunition. Prosecutors are now preparing to file additional charges against him.
During a preliminary hearing, Spafford's legal team argued for his release, emphasizing that he has no prior criminal history and that there was insufficient evidence to support the severity of the accusations. They claimed that if the explosives were indeed functional, the prosecution would have charged him with more serious offenses. Furthermore, they contended that using images of political leaders for target practice is a common practice protected under the First Amendment.
Despite these arguments, the prosecution maintains that Spafford poses a significant risk to both the community and to those involved in his oversight. The judge initially set a bond of $25,000, but this was later stayed pending an appeal from the government.
This case highlights the ongoing concerns about domestic terrorism and the potential threats posed by individuals with extreme ideologies. The FBI has emphasized the importance of monitoring such individuals, especially in light of Spafford's troubling history and the materials found during the raid.
