Zachary Loewen, 28, of Sitka, was scheduled for arraignment in Anchorage on Oct. 25, after being indicted on federal charges alleging he illegally constructed and possessed a pipe bomb.
U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder said the indictment further alleges that on Oct. 14 that Loewen knowingly received and possessed a combination of parts intended for construction of pipe bombs.
According to state court documents, Loewen began purchasing materials for construction of a pipe bomb after failed attempts to purchase a firearm, due to prior felony convictions. Then on Oct. 4, Loewen allegedly attempted to ignite the bomb with a candlewick fuse, but abandoned the explosive device after failed ignition.
Loewen had two prior felony convictions in Washington state, so he was prohibited from possessing explosives.
If convicted, Loewen faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years on each count, plus a fine of up to $250,000.