Weapons stash found after Needham man arrested for alleged threats against synagogues

A Needham man's stash of weapons was found as he was arrested on Monday night for allegedly making threats against synagogues in and outside of Alabama. 

According to the Clarke County Sheriff the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), 1st Judicial Circuit District Attorney, and 1st Judicial Circuit Special Response Team (SRT) were alerted to threats allegedly made by Jeremy Wayne Shoemaker. 

"Last night likely acts of violence were averted before they happened," said a post by the sheriff's office on social media. 

Shoemaker was identified and a search warrant was executed at his residence where the weapons and ammunition was found. 

"The subject was taken into custody along with weapons, more than a suitcase full of ammo, body armor and other items related to the plans of violence," said the post. "Further investigation revealed that the subject had intentions of not being taken alive and was possibly planning attacks on public figures as well."

The post further stated that the investigation will involve "numerous" federal agencies and "multiple" federal charges are likely. 

An FBI field officer was quoted as saying, "having a local team with such training, capabilities, and ability to immediately respond prevented multiple violent acts with minimal incident."

Thanks were given to the FBI, Clarke County Deputies, Choctaw County Deputies, and the Jackson, Grove Hill, Thomasville, and Butler police departments.