South Jersey man arrested with 200 bombs at D.C. church, targeting Supreme Court, ICE, Catholics, and Jews, according to police.

A South Jersey resident has been remanded to custody following his arrest in Washington, D.C., for possessing an extensive cache of explosives. The individual, identified as 41-year-old Louis Geri of Vineland, was apprehended near St. Matthew’s Cathedral, where he had set up a tent in anticipation of a Mass commemorating the commencement of the Supreme Court’s new term, known as the Red Mass. The incident, which occurred over the weekend, has raised significant public safety concerns, prompting legal action.

During a hearing held in Washington’s Superior Court, prosecutors articulated that Geri posed a substantial threat to public safety. Court documents reveal that Geri filled his tent with over 200 homemade explosive devices. Authorities contend that his actions were indicative of a deliberate intent to create chaos, particularly in proximity to an event attended by prominent figures in the judiciary.

On the morning of his arrest, Geri reportedly warned law enforcement officers that they should maintain their distance, indicating that he possessed explosives. He further escalated the situation by making threats to utilize these devices in a violent manner, expressing a willingness to throw them at individuals, trees, or vehicles. This alarming behavior culminated in remarks implying that harm would befall law enforcement personnel and others present.

Upon inspection of the tent, officers discovered additional materials, including notes authored by Geri that expressed considerable hostility towards various groups, including the Catholic Church, Jewish individuals, Supreme Court members, and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. Consequently, Geri has been charged with multiple offenses, including possession of destructive devices.

Due to the early-morning investigation, the Supreme Court justices chose not to attend this year’s Red Mass, reflecting heightened security concerns. Geri, who remained silent during the court proceedings, had an attorney present, who noted that Geri had graduated from Rowan University and emphasized that he had not activated or tested any of the explosives found.

Despite the defense’s claims, preliminary assessments indicated that the devices were functional and contained nitromethane, a substance commonly associated with homemade explosives. After weighing the evidence and potential threats posed by Geri, Magistrate Judge Heide Herrmann ordered that he remain in custody while his case progresses through the legal system. A subsequent court appearance is slated for later this month.

This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding public safety and the implications of extremist behaviors in today’s society. As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant in addressing threats that jeopardize communal harmony and security.

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