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FBI Seizes Over 150 Homemade Explosives from Brad Spafford's Farm in Isle of Wight County, Virginia

Jan 1, 2025, 07:00 AM

The FBI has uncovered what is believed to be the largest seizure of homemade explosives in its history at a Virginia farm. Brad Spafford, a 36-year-old man from Smithfield, Virginia, was arrested following the discovery of over 150 pipe bombs and other explosive devices at his 20-acre property in Isle of Wight County. The seizure occurred after a neighbor reported Spafford's stockpiling of weapons and explosives. Some of the devices were found in a detached garage, while others were unsecured in a backpack in a bedroom. Additionally, a jar of HMTD, a highly unstable explosive, was found in the freezer alongside food items. Spafford, who shares the home with his wife and two young children, was initially charged with possessing an unregistered short-barrel rifle. Federal prosecutors have indicated that additional charges related to the explosives are likely forthcoming, with each charge potentially carrying a maximum sentence of ten years in prison. Spafford's defense attorneys argue that he poses no threat to the community, describing him as a hard-working family man with no criminal record. Reports also indicate that Spafford used photos of President Joe Biden for target practice and expressed support for political assassinations, with some devices marked with 'No Lives Matter'.