• The FBI has seized more than 150 homemade explosive devices from a Virginia farm, marking a record in the agency's history.
• The suspect, Brad Spafford, has been arrested and is currently facing charges for unlawful possession of a rifle.
• Authorities were alerted by a neighbor who reported Spafford's alarming behavior and stockpiling of weapons.
• Explosives found included pipe bombs and even a jar of HMTD, a highly unstable explosive, stored in his freezer next to food.
• Prosecutors are seeking to detain Spafford as the investigation unfolds, citing the large quantity and nature of the explosives.

The FBI uncovered over 150 homemade explosives during a raid at the residence of a Virginia man, Brad Spafford. This discovery is regarded as the largest collection of finished explosive devices ever found by the agency. Following a tip-off from a neighbor who expressed concerns about Spafford’s troubling behavior—such as stockpiling weapons and discussing fortifying his property with a turret for a .50-caliber rifle—authorities initiated an investigation. According to court documents, Spafford, who lives with his wife and children, had made various explosives, including pipe bombs, some of which were unceremoniously placed in a backpack within his home.

Notably, among the contraband, authorities located a jar of HMTD, a highly unstable explosive, labeled with a cautionary note and stored next to food in his freezer. Moreover, records found on the premises included instructions for crafting grenades and other explosive devices. With an existing charge pertaining to an unregistered short-barreled rifle, Spafford is also expected to face further charges for the deadly cache of explosives discovered.

The investigation into Spafford’s activities raised alarms not only due to the quantity of weapons but because of his alleged expressions of support for extremist views, having reportedly used images of prominent political figures for target practice. Federal agents remain diligent as they assess the implications of this case within the broader context of domestic security threats.

For further details, visit the Le Monde article.