It all started when Lake County sheriff's detectives learned that an unincorporated Barrington man was selling brand-new appliances at unusually low prices on social media.
Detectives conducted an undercover operation and purchased an LG oven from 36-year-old Jeffery L. Hendon Jr., who lives in the 27600-block of West Cuba Road.
Authorities confirmed that the oven was stolen by checking its serial number. Further investigation revealed that the oven and several other LG appliances were stolen from a Lockport warehouse in February. The appliances were part of a shipment taken from a cargo truck at a distribution center.
Sheriff's detectives executed a search warrant at Hendon's property on Thursday. There, authorities recovered tens of thousands of dollars' worth of stolen LG ovens and dryers.
Detectives also found a large number of what appear to be homemade explosives. The Waukegan Bomb Squad responded to safely collect and dispose of them.
Hendon has been charged with Online Sale of Stolen Goods, Theft Over $10,000 and Unlawful Possession of Explosives.
Hendon is due in court on Friday, and additional charges are likely, the sheriff's office said.