A Peardale man who was badly injured from an ordnance explosion at his home, about 2 months ago, has now been arrested. Nevada County D-A Cliff Newell says 57-year-old Russell Hawkins was recently released from the hospital and is charged with 4 felony counts. That includes possession of illegal fireworks and ingredients for making a destructive device…

click to listen to Cliff Newell

Newell says Hawkins is also charged with possession of a destructive device and illegal assault weapons. He says Hawkins’ hobby also presented a danger to neighboring residents…

click to listen to Cliff Newell

Due to the volatility of the chemicals found at the home, on Old Stagecoach Road, along with other materials, authorities decided to destroy the items in place. Only a handful of live ordnances were found, but there were large amounts of precursor chemicals and hardware found for making fireworks.