Department of Justice
For Immediate Release
Randolph County Man Indicted in Connection to Destructive Devices
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert C. Ard, of Elkins, West Virginia, was indicted today by a federal grand jury on charges related to two homemade explosive devices found in his home, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Ard, age 54, is charged with one count of “Making an Unlawful Firearm” and one count of “Possession of Unregistered Firearm.” Ard is accused of making a firearm, that is a destructive device, and possessing a destructive device that wasn’t registered with the National Firearms Registry.
On June 18, 2018, a search warrant was executed at Ard’s residence because agents had reason to believe there were explosive devices and materials used to make an IED. Upon searching the apartment, agents found two destructive devices and additional components used to construct said devices.
Ard faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of $10,000 fine for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.