Sheriff's Department Discovers Hidden Nazi Extremist Arsenal in Quiet Washington Suburb
Authorities arrest two white supremacists in Washington state home amid discovery of military-grade weapons and Nazi memorabilia.
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Authorities in suburban Washington state have uncovered what they described as a dangerous cache of firearms, explosives, and Nazi-related items following a coordinated law enforcement operation. The discovery took place at a residence in Lacey, just outside of Olympia, and involved the Thurston County Sheriff's Office working alongside the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) and an FBI special weapons and tactics team.
According to Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders, the operation was prompted by an investigation into a violent robbery involving the theft of military-grade weaponry and armor. Law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at the property, where they encountered an arsenal of military-grade weaponry and armor, including short-barrel rifles, an MG42 machine gun, grenade launchers, explosives, body armor, ammunition, and ballistic helmets. The department also reported finding multiple rifles positioned at windows throughout the home, suggesting the occupants had taken steps to defend or potentially attack from their location.
Authorities confirmed that two individuals were taken into custody on firearms-related offenses and booked into Thurston County Jail. Their identities have not been released as federal charges are pending. Notably, the court sided with prosecutors and set bail at $500,000 each, far higher than the $5,000 initially requested. This significant bail figure emphasizes the severity of the case and concerns over public safety.
In addition to the large stockpile of arms, investigators found significant quantities of Nazi paraphernalia in the residence. Items recovered included a red Nazi flag emblazoned with a black swastika, literature espousing pro-Nazi sentiments, and artwork depicting Adolf Hitler. Photographs released by authorities documented more than 35 firearms distributed throughout the property, with Nazi imagery and messaging prominently displayed. Sheriff Sanders stated, “The suspects identified in this case were actively involved in Nazi White Nationalist efforts.”
Federal authorities are expected to provide more details as a criminal complaint is unsealed. The two suspects are due to make their initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Tacoma. The case has heightened concerns among local residents and law enforcement over the growing threat posed by extremist groups amassing weapons and promoting hate ideologies within the community.
The ongoing investigation underscores the priority placed by authorities on dismantling violent extremist networks and preventing potential acts of terror or hate-fueled violence. Additional updates are expected as federal proceedings advance.
