Feds: Ky. man, fearing world's end, built bombs

[December 13, 2010]  OWENSBORO, Ky. (AP) -- A Kentucky man has pleaded guilty to making bombs, claiming he feared the end of the world after watching the movie "2012."

The Courier-Journal reports that James Byron Birkhead told federal agents he was making bombs to protect his family when the government fails and food riots occur.

Agent Kevin Kelm, with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, says police were called to Birkhead's home when a social worker sent to check on the well-being of Birkhead's daughters heard that he was acquiring weapons.

On Thursday, the 52-year-old pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Owensboro to possessing and manufacturing explosive materials without a license.

He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 4. The government has recommended a six- to 12-month sentence.

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Information from: The Courier-Journal, http://www.courier-journal.com/

[Associated Press]

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