Judge to rule on custody request by Clarkston man facing explosives charges

A Clarkston man facing federal charges related to explosives is seeking a temporary release from custody so he can undergo surgery.

According to court documents, Joseph J. Brice wants to be released on Nov. 28 to his father's house and remain there for six weeks following a surgical procedure scheduled for Dec. 1. U.S. Magistrate Judge Cynthia Imbrogno will make a ruling on the motion at 1:30 p.m. Monday in U.S. District Court in Spokane.

Brice's attorney, Amy H. Rubin, a federal defender, has stipulated her client will remain under house arrest during his release, have no access to computers or the Internet and comply with all local, state and federal laws.

Earlier this year, Brice, 21, pleaded innocent to manufacturing an explosive device, distributing information relating to explosives, destructive devices and weapons of mass destruction, and attempting to provide material support to terrorists. He is being held without bond pending trial.

Brice was arrested in Clarkston May 9 after federal agents raided his apartment. The FBI began investigating Brice after he was seriously injured by a homemade explosive device near Red Wolf Crossing Bridge in 2010.

During the investigation that led to his arrest, federal agents reportedly monitored Brice's now-closed Youtube channel, email accounts and cell phone messages. He is accused of posting bomb-making instructions and videos online and ordering explosive materials. Brice also allegedly plotted to rob a Lewiston bank, according to court documents.

A pretrial conference is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Dec. 20 before Judge Lonny R. Suko, and a jury trial has been set for April 9. It is anticipated to take three weeks. Russell E. Smoot of the U.S. attorney's office in Spokane is handling the prosecution.

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Sandaine may be contacted at kerris@lmtribune.com or (208) 848-2264.