Explosive materials found in Bay residence

During a residence check by Parole and Probation of registered sex offender John Eugene Barta, DOB 12/15/60, of 309 Elprado Place, Panama City Beach, officers noted potentially explosive materials in the home, according to a report from Bay County Sheriff's Office. The Bay County Sheriff's Office was contacted at approximately 6:30 pm Friday afternoon, September 3. Field Service deputies, Special Investigations Division narcotics officers, and the BCSO Bomb Squad responded to the home.

Based on the findings of Parole and Probation, a search warrant was obtained and served. A search of the home revealed that Barta had 8 to 10 pounds of high explosives and 30 to 50 detonators, items that can only be purchased and stored under strict federal regulations and guidelines. Also found in the home was numerous prescription pills. Barta, who lives alone, denied any prior knowledge of the explosive materials.

The explosive materials were disposed of in a safe manner by the BCSO Bomb Squad. Barta was arrested and charged with Violation of Probation for a charge of Failing to Maintain Proper Registration as a Sex Offender in February of 2010, and Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription. Additional charges related to the explosive materials are expected.