ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY, VA — A Virginia man allegedly stockpiled 150 pipe bombs and kept a highly explosive substance in a freezer accessible to children, according to federal authorities.
Brad Spafford, 36, was arrested last month after an FBI investigation revealed the largest seizure of explosive devices in agency history on his Isle of Wight County farm. The probe began in early 2023 after tips about Spafford’s stockpiling of weapons and ammunition, court documents state.
Spafford, who lost three fingers in a 2021 homemade bomb accident, reportedly used pictures of President Joe Biden for target practice and owned an unregistered short-barreled rifle. The FBI informant revealed Spafford’s comments about fortifying his property with a 50-caliber firearm and his disdain for firearm registration.
A search of the property uncovered 150 pipe bombs, some marked “lethal,” tools for bomb-making, and a freezer containing HMTD, described as so unstable it could detonate from temperature changes. The freezer, located among food items, was accessible to children, officials said.
Federal agents determined several devices were too dangerous to transport and destroyed them on-site. Others were confiscated for testing, including one capable of causing death or property damage, investigators said. Handwritten bomb-making instructions were also found.
Authorities say Spafford showed support for political assassinations and referenced prior attacks, allegedly stating he hoped one shooter “doesn’t miss Kamala.”
The government has charged Spafford with possession of a firearm in violation of the National Firearms Act. Despite his attorney’s argument that he had no intent to commit crimes, a judge ordered Spafford to remain detained, citing probable cause for his arrest.
Further court proceedings are pending.
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