ATF Defendant Convicted

Denys Ray Hughes, 59, of Phoenix, was found guilty of Attempted Production of a Biological Toxin for Use as a Weapon, Possession of an Unregistered Destructive Device & Possession of an Unregistered Silencer, by a federal jury in Phoenix.

The evidence at trial showed that Hughes grew castor bean plants & cultivated thousands of their seeds, which contain the toxin called ricin. Hughes further possessed the necessary precursor materials, as well as written instructions for extracting the toxin. The government also proved at trial that Hughes possessed a destructive device, specifically, a pipe bomb, & multiple silencers.

A conviction for Attempted Production of a Biological Toxin for Use asa Weapon carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine or both. Hughes remained in custody after trial. Sentencing is set for Oct. 2nd, 2006.