ARIZONA — A 27-year-old Arizona man has been charged with making a terrorist threat after prosecutors alleged that he planned a mass-casualty attack against a Jewish or Muslim house of worship using explosives and firearms.

Matthew Bjornholt, of Chandler, appeared in a Maricopa County courtroom on Friday, October 16, where prosecutors outlined allegations that he had discussed a plan to detonate explosives at a religious facility before an accomplice would open fire on survivors.

During the hearing, prosecutor Stephen Garcia described Bjornholt as a potential danger to the community and requested that his bond be set at $500,000.

Authorities reportedly recovered three firearms and ammunition during a search of Bjornholt's residence. Prosecutors also alleged that he possessed a copy of The Anarchist Cookbook, a publication containing instructions for making explosives, which he reportedly referred to as his “Bible.”

However, Bjornholt's defense attorney, Chad Schell, strongly disputed the accusations, arguing that the case was based on unverified statements from a former acquaintance who had briefly stayed at his client's home before being asked to leave.

According to the defense, FBI agents searched Bjornholt's residence on September 29 and examined electronic devices that he voluntarily made available to investigators. Schell maintained that federal authorities found no evidence of terrorist activity or bomb-making materials and did not pursue federal charges.

The defense also argued that the firearms recovered from the residence were legally possessed.

After reviewing the initial allegations, the judge determined that sufficient probable cause existed for the case to proceed but acknowledged concerns about the prosecution's reliance on hearsay evidence.

The court rejected the requested $500,000 bond and instead set bond at $100,000, with electronic monitoring and other restrictions required if Bjornholt is released.

Authorities have not publicly identified a specific shul, mosque, or other religious institution as the intended target. It also remains unclear whether the alleged accomplice exists.

Bjornholt is scheduled to return to court on October 22 for a status conference, followed by a preliminary hearing on October 26.

The allegations have raised concerns about potential threats against religious institutions, including Jewish communities. The criminal case remains pending, and the accusations against Bjornholt have not been proven in court.