Findlay, Ohio – Federal authorities have secured a prison sentence against an Ohio man after investigators uncovered a large collection of firearms, homemade explosives, silencers, and materials tied to explosive devices inside storage locations connected to him.
Robert J. Niederbrack, 70, of Findlay, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to several serious weapons and explosives offenses. The case centered on allegations that Niederbrack illegally possessed dozens of firearms and explosive materials despite being prohibited from owning them because of earlier felony convictions.
According to federal prosecutors, Niederbrack admitted guilt to charges including felon in possession of firearms, possession of unregistered firearm silencers, and felon in possession of explosives.
The sentence was handed down on May 5 by Jeffrey J. Helmick. In addition to prison time, the judge ordered Niederbrack to complete three years of supervised release once he leaves custody. The court also ordered the forfeiture of a large cache of weapons that investigators seized during the case, including 16 rifles, 11 pistols, and six shotguns.
Explosives And Firearms Found During Searches
Court records show that federal agents first became involved after receiving information that explosives were allegedly being manufactured out of a residence. During the investigation, authorities identified Niederbrack as a suspect and later obtained search warrants tied to locations connected to him.
One of the major searches took place at a storage unit in Ottawa. During that operation, agents recovered 33 firearms along with ammunition and firearm silencers. Investigators also discovered sealed tubes containing explosive powder fitted with fuses designed for detonation.
Authorities said they additionally found roughly 25 pounds of explosive powders, including sulfur and aluminum, along with various tools and components commonly associated with homemade explosive construction. The materials allegedly included funnels, measuring devices, cardboard tubes, fuse cords, and end cap seals.
Federal agents also recovered documents and materials discussing warfare devices and techniques, adding to concerns surrounding the investigation.
A second court-authorized search at another residence where Niederbrack had been staying resulted in additional seizures. Investigators recovered more firearms, firearm silencers and parts, ammunition, and a taser.
The case carried added weight because Niederbrack already had prior felony convictions dating back to 2009. Those convictions included Possession of Firearm/Ammunition by a Felon, Possession of Place for Trafficking/Sale/Manufacture of Controlled Substances, Cultivation of Cannabis, and Possession of Cannabis over 20 grams.
Federal officials said the investigation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Dexter L. Philips for the Northern District of Ohio.
