FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — Editor’s note: Because of a production error, an earlier version of this story included the incorrect name of the suspect. CBS12 News apologizes for the error.
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Fort Pierce man after deputies found what they believe were multiple destructive devices at his home Thursday.
According to the sheriff’s office, at about 12:20 p.m. Thursday, detectives with the SLCSO Targeted Violence Unit were serving a risk protection order at the home, located near Balsam Drive, when they identified numerous suspected destructive devices. Detectives secured the residence and surrounding area while requesting assistance from the Bomb Disposal Team.
Bomb technicians removed seven suspected destructive devices from the home and placed them in a containment vessel. After obtaining a search warrant, deputies found and safely removed an eighth suspected explosive device, along with a large quantity of materials used to make explosive devices.
Eight firearms were also seized from the home as part of the risk protection order.
“This investigation underscores the seriousness of what our detectives encountered and the importance of being alert to the threats around us,” said Sheriff Richard Del Toro. “Our Targeted Violence Unit detectives recognized the potential danger and took immediate action, and our Bomb Disposal Team technicians put themselves in harm’s way to safely secure and remove these devices. I’m proud of their professionalism and courage, and grateful for the expertise and partnership of the FBI and ATF as we continue this investigation.”
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As a result of the investigation, Keith Anthony Morrone, 57, was charged with eight counts of possessing, making or attempting to make a destructive device. Morrone is being held at the St. Lucie County Jail on a $20,000 bond.
The investigation remains ongoing. The sheriff’s office said there is no immediate threat to the community.