A Salem man was arrested and arraigned this week after a search of his apartment uncovered large quantities of materials that could be used to make explosive devices, according to prosecutors.
Patrick Gordon, 42, was arraigned Tuesday in Salem District Court on charges of possession of an incendiary device and possession of an assault weapon, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office said.
Gordon pleaded not guilty. His bail was set at $100,000.
According to prosecutors, the investigation began on Dec. 15, when Massachusetts State Police received information that Gordon had ordered large-capacity magazines shipped to his mother’s home in Bedford. Authorities said they later learned Gordon had also ordered several firearm-related items and a kit capable of producing about four pounds of thermite, which was shipped to his apartment in Salem.
On Dec. 22, police searched the apartment and discovered parts for assault-style rifles, as well as a 3D printer that prosecutors said was used to manufacture “ghost guns” — privately made firearms that are undocumented and difficult to trace.
According to prosecutors, the search also uncovered large quantities of fuels, oxidizers and flash powder that could be used to create explosive devices.
Gordon’s probable cause hearing is set for Jan. 20.
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Mike Grimala is a breaking news reporter at MassLive.
