Authorities in Alabama have arrested a man following the discovery of alarming plans to target synagogues across Alabama and nearby states. This development comes after what were described as credible threats of violence against these religious centers.

The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Jeremy Wayne Shoemaker from Needham, was apprehended after a coordinated effort between the FBI and local law enforcement. The Clarke County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on Tuesday confirming the arrest and emphasizing the seriousness of the threats.

“Potential acts of violence were prevented last night, thanks to swift intervention,” the sheriff’s office declared, highlighting the crucial timing of their actions.

During their investigation, authorities confiscated a cache of weapons, a substantial amount of ammunition stored in a suitcase, body armor, and other items linked to Shoemaker’s alleged violent plans. These findings underscore the potential severity of the threat.

Shoemaker, captured in his mugshot with visible bruises, reportedly sustained injuries while resisting arrest, according to Clarke County Sheriff DeWayne Smith. (Clarke County Sheriff’s Office)

“He had stockpiled some ammunition, some of it was old, some of it was new,” Clarke County Sheriff DeWayne Smith told FOX10 WALA. “He had a newly purchased assault rifle, he had extended magazines which were loaded and the way that the ammo was fixed was like he was ready to go and utilize it somewhere.”

Investigators seized weapons, more than a suitcase full of ammunition, body armor and other items from Shoemaker’s residence. Authorities said the items were related to the alleged plans of violence. (Clarke County Sheriffs Office)

The investigation further revealed that Shoemaker did not plan on being taken alive, according to the sheriff’s office.

“He had planned to shoot it out with the police, but, due to tactics, he was unable to do so,” Smith said, adding that the bruises seen in Shoemaker’s mugshot were sustained while he resisted arrest.

Shoemaker was also accused of potentially planning attacks on public figures. Authorities did not immediately release the names of any figures Shoemaker was allegedly targeting due to the ongoing investigation. The names of the synagogues he allegedly planned to target were also not immediately provided.

Shoemaker was charged with resisting arrest and certain persons forbidden to possess a firearm. Additional federal charges are likely, authorities said.

Shoemaker was being held on $150,000 cash bond. He was due to appear in court on Nov. 7.