Ohio man arrested after investigators discover IED near soccer complex
A Mason, Ohio, man has been arrested for allegedly possessing a destructive device after an investigation into an improvised explosive device (IED) found at a soccer complex led to the discovery of bomb-making materials. James River Phillips, 20, was taken into custody by the FBI Cincinnati Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and charged with possession of an unregistered gun and possession of a destructive device.
The arrest followed a federal court-ordered search in Mason, where law enforcement officials uncovered evidence linking Phillips to the dangerous device. FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Elena Iatarola stated, “The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force arrested James River Phillips after he allegedly possessed a dangerous destructive device. The FBI and our partners worked together to ensure his actions were stopped before there was any risk to public safety.”
The investigation began when a Lebanon, Ohio, police officer discovered an IED at a soccer complex around midnight on September 22, 2024. The officer observed two individuals in their early 20s leaving the complex in a silver SUV, with the driver having long curly hair. After stopping the vehicle and instructing the men to leave the closed complex, the officer found the IED where the SUV had been parked. The device had wires connected to a control switch, indicating its destructive potential.
Butler County Bomb Squad (BCBS) analyzed the device and found that it contained nickel hydrazine nitrate and erythritol tetranitrate, both explosive substances. Through cellular data tracking, investigators linked Phillips to the scene of the incident, where his phone was present during the time of the discovery. Subsequent searches of Phillips’ Apple iCloud account revealed videos and photos of him constructing explosive devices in a shed, as well as engaging in detonation activities in a parking lot.
One video captured an explosion near portable restrooms and a soccer net, while another showed the destruction of a car following a detonation. The iCloud account also contained recipes and notes on constructing explosive devices, further incriminating Phillips in the possession of bomb-making materials.
Phillips is scheduled to appear in court for a bond hearing, where he will remain in custody until further legal proceedings. The case underscores the importance of diligent law enforcement efforts in preventing potential acts of terrorism and ensuring public safety.
As the details of this case continue to unfold, the community remains vigilant in standing against threats to security and upholding the rule of law. The swift action taken by authorities in apprehending Phillips serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and safeguard the well-being of all individuals.
