Camden, N.J. – Dwayne A. Vandergrift Jr., 35, of Gloucester City, was arraigned today on federal charges for detonating an explosive device at a local gym and unlawfully possessing unregistered destructive devices and a short-barreled rifle.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey announced that Vandergrift Jr. faces malicious use of explosives, unlawful possession of two destructive devices, and unlawful possession of a short-barreled rifle. He is scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen M. Williams at a later date.
According to the complaint, on August 26, 2020, Vandergrift Jr. placed an explosive device on the front door of a local gym in Gloucester City. The device detonated, causing significant damage to the door and shattering its glass. Security camera footage captured Vandergrift Jr. fleeing the scene.
Two days later, federal and local law enforcement executed a search warrant at Vandergrift Jr.’s residence, uncovering substantial quantities of bomb-making materials, numerous weapons, an unregistered short-barreled rifle, tactical vests equipped with body armor, loaded 30-round ammunition magazines, and a marijuana grow operation containing approximately 85 plants. Investigators found evidence that Vandergrift Jr. had researched constructing various explosive devices.
Vandergrift Jr. was arrested on August 28, 2020, by local authorities and charged by the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office. He remains in custody on those charges. The malicious use of explosives charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years and a fine of $250,000, while the charges for possession carry maximum sentences of 10 years each with the same fine.
Craig Carpenito, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, credited the FBI’s South Jersey Resident Agency, Philadelphia Joint Terrorism Task Force, Gloucester City Police Department, Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, Camden County Sheriff’s Office, ATF, New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, Homeland Security Investigations, and New Jersey State Police for their roles in the investigation.
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Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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