SALISBURY — A Salisbury man charged in a number of break-ins had a homemade pipe bomb inside his jacket when detectives searched him.

In January, detectives with the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office began investigating a break-in at Apple Baking Co. and at the Franklin Fire Department.

Multiple types of lawn care equipment were stolen from Apple Baking, and fire equipment and tools were stolen from the Franklin Fire Department.

In their investigation of multiple larcenies and other break-ins in the area, detectives found $15,000 worth of stolen property at 180 Burmac Circle.

After a search of the home, David Boardman, 24, of 13020 Cool Springs Road, Cleveland, was charged on an outstanding warrant for felony possession of stolen property.

Investigators searched Boardman and found a homemade pipe bomb inside his jacket pocket. The pipe bomb was threaded on both sides with a fuse.

The Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad was called to deactivate the pipe bomb. It was turned over to the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office as evidence.

Boardman was charged with felony possession of stolen property and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. He was issued a $20,000 secure bond.

The investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected, officials said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lt. Chad Moose at 704-216-8687, Staff Sgt. Rodney Mahaley at 704-216-8711, Detective C.K. Youngo at 704-216-8683, or Salisbury-Rowan CrimeStoppers 866-639-5245.