FBI Seizes Over 150 Explosives in Largest Cache in Agency History

Virginia man Brad Spafford arrested after discovery of homemade bombs and materials, raising concerns about potential extremist activity.

Brad Spafford, 36, was arrested on December 17 at his Virginia farm after the FBI discovered over 150 homemade explosive devices, the largest seizure in the agency's history.
Most of the explosives, including pipe bombs labeled 'lethal,' were found in a detached garage, while others were unsecured in a backpack inside the home shared with his wife and two young children.
Prosecutors allege Spafford expressed support for political violence, used photos of President Joe Biden for target practice, and discussed fortifying his property with a turret and sniper capabilities.
Investigators also uncovered a jar of highly volatile HMTD explosive stored in a freezer near food, as well as a notebook containing recipes for making bombs, grenades, and other devices.
Spafford is currently charged with possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle, with additional charges related to the explosives expected as legal proceedings continue.