LIVINGSTON COUNTY — Jospeh Martino, 34, accused bomb maker, was sentenced in court Wednesday after making a plea deal that will send him to state prison. The hobbyist bomb maker accidentally blew up his own home.
The incident, which took place back in June, drew national attention to the small town of Springwater after police discovered over 30 bombs. Apparently, Martino was drying explosive chemicals in his oven when they ignited.
Law enforcement officials from multiple agencies, including the DEA, swept in for fears they had a homegrown terrorist on their hands.
“Mr. Martino was a mere hobbyist that had a fascination with explosives,” said Greg McCaffrey, Livingston County District Attorney. “This was a very scary scenario and we are fortunate no one was more seriously injured.”
Martino, who pled guilty to D-felony criminal possession of a dangerous weapon, was near the stove when it exploded, and he was treated for minor injuries.
According to Matino’s Lawyer, John Parinello, Martino’s curiosity for explosives emerged after a motor bike accident when he was a teen left him confined to a wheelchair.
“I take responsibility for what I did,” stated Martino prior to sentencing by Judge Dennis Cohen.
Martino was also ordered to pay restitution of $1,050 for damages to the home.