A Camden County man was charged today for detonating an explosive device at a local business and unlawfully possessing unregistered destructive devices and a short-barreled rifle, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Officials say Mr. Dwayne A. Vandergrift Jr., 35, of Gloucester City, is charged by complaint with malicious use of explosives, unlawful possession of two destructive devices, and unlawful possession of a short-barreled rifle.
According to officials, Vandergrift will make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen M. Williams at a later date.
According to the complaint:
During the early morning hours of August 26, Vandergrift placed an explosive device on the front door of a local gym near his home in Gloucester City.
Security camera footage recorded Vandergrift fleeing the area moments before the device exploded, badly damaging the front door and shattering its glass.
On August 28, federal and local law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Vandergrift’s home and found substantial quantities of bomb-making materials, numerous weapons, including an unregistered short-barreled rifle, several tactical vests outfitted with body armor and loaded 30-round ammunition magazines, and a marijuana growing operation containing approximately 85 marijuana plants.
Upon examining Vandergrift’s personal computer devices, investigators discovered that he had recently researched how to construct and utilize various explosive devices, including pipe and pressure cooker bombs.
Vandergrift was arrested by local authorities on August 28, and charged by the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office. He is presently in custody on those charges.
The malicious use of explosive charge carries a maximum prison term of 20 years and a maximum fine of $250,000.
The charges for possession of the unregistered destructive devices and short-barreled rifle carry maximum prison terms of 10 years each and maximum fines of $250,000.