Crime & Safety
Florida Teen Arrested After FBI Investigates Explosive Materials
Gainesville, FL – A 15 year old Buchholz High School student has been arrested following a joint investigation by the FBI and Alachua County Sheriff's Office that uncovered suspected explosive materia
By Evan Cross · 2026-10-27T17:18:12.174Z
Gainesville, FL – A 15 year old Buchholz High School student has been arrested following a joint investigation by the FBI and Alachua County Sheriff 's Office that uncovered suspected explosive materials inside a Gainesville residence, prompting an emergency response from bomb technicians.
According to the Alachua County Sheriff's Office, investigators began examining the activities of Jude Sleeper on Friday, Oct. 23, after receiving intelligence suggesting the teenager had allegedly communicated with individuals associated with ISIS on social media.
Authorities said Sleeper reportedly sought guidance about constructing drones and explosives to attack people at an unidentified indoor location.
Investigators contacted Sleeper and his parents at their residence in the 9000 block of Northwest 59th Lane. His parents consented to a search of his cellphone, which deputies said contained instructions for manufacturing explosive devices, chemical compounds and ISIS propaganda.
On Monday, Oct. 26, investigators returned to the home for additional questioning.
During the visit, deputies learned that Sleeper's mother had discovered two jars inside his bedroom containing chemical substances.
According to investigators, Sleeper identified the substances as ingredients associated with TATP, an unstable explosive compound capable of detonating unexpectedly.
The residence was immediately evacuated, and the Alachua County Sheriff's Office Bomb Team responded to assess the materials and secure the property.
After bomb technicians determined the residence was safe, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant.
Sleeper was subsequently arrested and charged with making or attempting to make a destructive device.
Authorities indicated that additional charges remain possible as the investigation continues.
The sheriff's office has not identified a specific intended target or confirmed that a completed explosive device was recovered.
Officials also have not announced any direct threat against Buchholz High School.
The investigation remains active, with authorities declining to release additional details because of the case's sensitive nature.
The allegations have not been proven in court.