MADISON, Wis. -- A man from Janesville was sentenced Tuesday to two years in federal prison for possessing six homemade pipe bombs.
James Morgan, 31 and from Jefferson, pled guilty to the charge on April 16, 2024 after the FBI received information indicating Morgan's creations on destructive devices. Federal and local law enforcement agents executed a federal search warrant at Morgan's travel trailer on Dec. 21, 2023. The search warrant took place in Janesville.
Inside the trailer agents found a locked safe that contained six improvised and homemade explosive devices. Several nails were glued to the outside. The devices were sent out to the FBI lab for testing, and it was determined that the devices held explosive powder that were considered "destructive devices" under federal law.
Morgan admitted to making the explosives with his father, and often referred to them as "grenades" when interviewed by agents. He also said he knew the bombs were illegal.
"Homemade explosive devices pose a risk to the safety of Wisconsin residents," FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Milwaukee Division Michael Hensle said. "Mr. Morgan's reckless behavior could have caused destruction and death or serious bodily injuries. The FBI continues to work with our local law enforcement partners to hold criminals accountable and ensure public safety throughout the state."
During sentencing, the judge expressed concern over Morgan's actions, especially considering "Morgan's history of posting racist and anti-government sentiments" on his social media accounts. The judge pointed out the nails on the devices' exteriors may have served as a purpose "beyond a simple fascination" regarding explosives.
Morgan currently faces charges in the Eastern District of Wisconsin for allegedly possessing chemical weapons in his Whitewater storage locker based on the same chemicals found in his trailer park in December.
If convicted of the charge he faces in Whitewater, he can face a maximum penalty of life in prison.
COPYRIGHT 2024 BY CHANNEL 3000. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.