Santa Ana Man Arrested as FBI Sweeps for Explosives

The FBI arrested a Santa Ana man Thursday after receiving information that he was storing explosives in his home.

An extensive search of his mobile home found no explosives, although authorities said they were still investigating.

“The FBI became aware of information yesterday [Wednesday] that required an immediate response.... There were allegations of explosives,” said FBI spokesman Matt McLaughlin, who would not elaborate further. “The house contained no explosives of any kind. The house is completely clean.”

Authorities refused to release the name of the suspect, saying all information on the case was sealed under federal court order.

“It is possible this man will be unarrested and not charged,” McLaughlin said. “We want to protect his privacy.... We are planning to sort this out through the night.”

The search occurred at Stoneridge Mobile Home Park on Harbor Boulevard in Santa Ana. Residents were evacuated from their mobile homes Thursday evening, watching in amazement as SWAT officers marched toward the man’s home.

Assistant Sheriff George Jaramillo said the arrest capped an investigation by the Joint Terrorist Task Force in Orange County, the FBI in Los Angeles and Orange counties.

“The system is working the way it’s supposed to work. Information is being sifted through and leads are being aggressively followed, and agencies are cooperating,” he said.

“We are just two weeks or so away from Sept. 11. People should not let down their guard too much,” he added.

“While there are reasons to feel safe, there are also reasons to remain vigilant. Little things like this are a wake-up call for that notion.”