Valley man indicted for possessing explosive devices

PHOENIX - A federal grand jury in Phoenix has returned a three-count indictment against a Valley man for possessing explosive devices.

In a story ABC15's Christopher Sign has been following since Monday, we have learned Jeffrey Harbin of Apache Junction had 12 grenade-like improvised explosive devices built with PVC pipe filled with black powder, ball bearings and an improvised fusing system.

Harbin has ties to the National Socialist Movement according to a former member.

"I actually personally recruited Jeff into the National Socialist Movement, I am no longer a unit leader or with the National Socialist Movement," said J.T. Ready.

According to a spokesman for the Neo-Nazi hategroup, Harbin is no longer a member of the group.

The indictment alleges Harbin, 28, unlawfully transported one of the IEDs.

The ABC15 source said Harbin was pulled over in his pickup truck on January 14. Air15 was on the scene near Idaho Road and Southern Avenue in Apache Junction as officers searched the truck.

"Jeffrey Harbin built these IEDs in such a way as to maximize human carnage," said Dennis K. Burke, U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Nathan Gray said the investigation was a collective effort by the Apache Junction Police Department, Arizona Department of Public Safety, and the Phoenix and Mesa police department bomb squads.

A conviction for each of the counts carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.

Harbin is being held in federal custody, charged with possession of unregistered destructive devices and the unlawful transportation of explosive material.

More arrests are expected in the case.

When asked if he knew what Harbin planned to due with the bombs, Ready replied, "Things are still under investigation, you would have to talk to the feds and see what their official statement is on that but I will say that domestic terrorism is real."

Investigators would not say, at this point, what they believe Harbin may have planned to with the devices.

Check back for updates.