Michael Brown: Picton man and army veteran accused of making firearms, explosives

An army veteran and explosives expert who allegedly manufactured his own weapons and explosives in a “doomsday preparation” scenario has returned to court.

An army veteran and explosives expert charged with 10 offences related to manufacturing his own weapons and explosives in an alleged “doomsday preparation” scenario has had the matter delayed in court.

Michael Timothy Brown, 54, has been charged with possessing an unauthorised prohibited firearm, making explosives for an unlawful purpose, acquiring a firearm part without a permit, manufacturing a prohibited firearm without a licence, intentionally importing prohibited goods, and five counts of possessing various types of ammunition.

According to court documents, the Australian Federal Police were notified on July 9 Brown had purchased a number of firearm parts for a semiautomatic rifle and a handgun, in addition to a 3D printer which police claim he wanted to use to build his own weapons.

Court documents state the imported goods, sourced mainly from South East Asia and the United States, were sent to his Picton home.

Michael Timothy Brown has been charged with manufacturing weapons and explosives in his home on Argyle St, Picton. Picture: Google Maps

In their search of Brown’s home on July 20, police allegedly seized an illegal gel blaster which resembled a military style rifle wrapped in a blanket.

Police allege they also discovered $190,000 in cash hidden under the sink in plastic bags.

According to court documents, police uncovered a large quantity of chemicals, as well as lab equipment, wiring, and detonators. Police allege the chemicals Brown had allegedly imported could be combined to manufacture explosives.

Police also claim they found a manual on how to manufacture explosives among an arsenal of triggers, explosive device tails, restricted military documents, and kevlar ballistic vests.

In previous court appearances, police have alleged Brown was fortifying himself in a “doomsday preparation” scenario.

Court documents reveal Brown was a decorated member of the Australian Defence Force for 30 years until his discharge in 2019.

According to the documents, he served as an explosive ordinance disposal technician and had undergone training which gave him an intimate knowledge of the creation and disarmament of explosive devices.

Michael Timothy Brown served as a member of the Australian Defence Force for 30 years. Picture: Alix Sweeney

The documents state Brown has maintained his handling qualifications in the explosives field, including reassessments and requalification.

On March 4, Picton Local Court heard there were a large number of items outstanding from the brief of evidence against Brown. The defence and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution requested an adjournment, which was granted by Magistrate Mark Douglass.

The matter has been before the court since July last year and Mr Brown has not yet entered pleas to the charges.

The case will return to the same court on May 6 for committal.