Federal authorities have charged a New Jersey man for allegedly constructing a sophisticated homemade bomb laboratory in his suburban home and manufacturing over 100 explosive devices. Joseph Rizos, 37, of Denville, faces federal charges including unlawful receipt of explosive materials, unlawful storage of explosive material, and unlawful possession of plastic explosives without a detection agent.
The charges stem from an investigation that began in April 2020, when Rizos allegedly started purchasing explosive materials, fuels, fuses, chemicals, and lab equipment from various online retailers. These materials were reportedly stored at his residence.
Investigators executed a search warrant at Rizos's home on Avondale Road in Denville on June 24, after he was detained from his vehicle. During the search, law enforcement officials discovered a home laboratory and a significant quantity of precursors commonly used to create homemade explosives. The search also yielded blasting caps, cell phones, firearms, and ammunition.
According to investigators, approximately 109 homemade bombs were recovered from a shed on the property. Additional illicit materials were allegedly found in the bedroom, basement, and garage of the residence. Neighbors were temporarily evacuated from their homes during the search due to the potential danger posed by the discovered materials.
Rizos had previously been charged by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office with second-degree recklessly endangering widespread injury/damage and four counts of third-degree possession of destructive devices.
If convicted on the federal charges, Rizos could face over 20 years in prison and fines totaling up to $600,000. The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The New Jersey State Police, Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office also provided assistance.