A 36-year-old Virginia man has pleaded guilty to possessing illegal firearms and explosive devices after authorities uncovered a disturbing stockpile of homemade bombs and threats against political figures.
Brad Spafford was arrested after an investigation revealed troubling behavior and a dangerous obsession with firearms and explosives.
The Investigation and Discovery of Dangerous Behavior
Spafford’s criminal activities came to light in early 2023 when a neighbor—who also worked as a law enforcement officer—became a confidential source for the FBI. The informant reported disturbing behavior from Spafford, including his ongoing production of homemade explosives and a history of mishandling dangerous materials, which had caused him to lose three fingers in an explosion.
The investigation revealed that Spafford had been making dangerous bombs using Tannerite, a highly explosive compound often used in target practice. He had also been discussing and bragging about his desire to “bring back political assassinations” during a conversation with a family member.
This statement was made after Spafford and the informant went shooting together, and it was clear that he was openly expressing violent and extreme views about political figures.
Disturbing Comments and Actions
Spafford’s statements escalated when he allegedly discussed creating even more powerful explosives, claiming that he was capable of making Tannerite as strong as dynamite. He also described how he had devised a solution to remove fingerprints and DNA from weapons to evade identification.
This frightening conversation was followed by an invitation to the informant to “go shooting” with him, using homemade targets featuring photographs of then-President Joe Biden.
Authorities also uncovered additional alarming behavior when Spafford sent a text to the informant following a shooting attempt on former President Donald Trump, expressing hope that the shooter would “not miss Kamala” — a comment made after Vice President Kamala Harris announced her presidential campaign.
Bombs and Explosives Found in Spafford’s Home
When authorities executed a search warrant at Spafford’s home in December 2024, they found 155 homemade explosive devices, including highly sensitive peroxide-based explosives like hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD), which is incredibly dangerous and can detonate with minimal impact.
The explosive devices were found in an unlocked garage, alongside household items and children’s toys, raising further concerns about the potential risk to those living in the home.
In addition to the bombs, authorities recovered an unregistered AR-15 rifle that Spafford had illegally modified into a short-barrel rifle, along with other firearms and weaponry. He had also expressed plans to install a 50-caliber firearm on the roof of his home to prevent any intruders from approaching.
Legal Consequences and Sentencing
Spafford, who had been under investigation for nearly a year, pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm in violation of the National Firearms Act and possession of an unregistered destructive device. These offenses carry severe penalties, and Spafford’s past actions, including his history of domestic violence and extreme statements, could lead to an even harsher sentence.
Spafford is currently in detention and is scheduled for sentencing in December 2025 before U.S. District Judge Arenda L. Wright Allen.
The case of Brad Spafford is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who stockpile weapons and explosives while espousing violent ideologies. His case raises significant concerns about the accessibility of dangerous materials and the potential for radicalization.
As authorities continue to investigate, the community remains on alert, hoping that this conviction will prevent further harm.
