Jeffrey Michael Kelly, the individual detained in relation to the gunfire at Kamala Harris‘ campaign location in Arizona, reportedly had intentions for a “mass casualty” incident, according to prosecutor Neha Bhatia.
The prosecutor from Maricopa County clarified her position in court on Wednesday, asserting that federal agents informed her of the finding of over 120 firearms and 250,000 rounds of ammunition within Kelly’s residence following his apprehension.
She indicated that authorities discovered scopes, body armor, and suppressors in Kelly’s home during the investigation, along with a machine gun located in his vehicle.
Kelly is also accused of suspending bags containing a white substance from political posters adorned with razor blades in Ahwatukee, a community located to the south of Phoenix.
Based on the items retrieved during the search, Bhatia emphasized that agents believe Kelly was “on the verge of executing an act of mass harm.”
As reported by the police, Kelly initiated the incident by firing BB pellets at the campaign office, which also acts as the Tempe Democratic National Committee location. He then allegedly discharged gunfire at the front door and window of the office.
Bhatia reports that the shootings occurred during the early morning hours of September 16, September 23, and October 6, asserting that Kelly “possessed firearms matching those employed” in the incidents.
Fortunately, the office building was vacant during the shooting events … however, a spokesperson from the Tempe Police Department indicated that these repeated occurrences have sparked safety apprehensions among the employees inside.
Kelly — who was previously detained in 2022 for allegedly pilfering campaign signage — now faces various felony charges, including engaging in a terrorist act, improper firearm discharge, and shooting at a non-residential building. Additionally, he has been charged with misdemeanor property damage.
The judge has established Kelly’s bail at $500K and mandated that he be placed under house arrest should he manage to secure the bail amount and attain release from incarceration.