An Atlantic City man who says he believed he was lighting a firecracker when he ignited an explosion on a city street must undergo a mental health evaluation before a judge will consider releasing him from jail.
He told police that a stranger paid him $10 to light what is described as a "relatively complicated homemade explosive device."
Surveillance shows Thomas light the canisters and run away, but have not yet been able to locate the stranger.
Defense attorney Christina Naughton believes there could be other video captured nearby that will show that individual, she told a judge during Thomas' detention hearing Friday.
Thomas, who had been attending an AtlantiCare program for severe and persistent mental health issues "does not have the mental capacity or the ability to make such a device," Naughton argued.
She noted that her client consented to a full search of his home that turned up no evidence of any explosive-making components.
The search did lead to an additional disorderly persons charge of drug paraphernalia for an alleged crack pipe.
"I suspect an individual took advantage of Mr. Thomas' developmental disability," Naughton said.
His only first-degree charge in the case is the result of Thomas' claim that he was paid to light it.
Judge Donna Taylor signed an order to have Thomas undergo a mental health evaluation.
She said she decide on his detention until that is completed, "so I can determine what the appropriate conditions are, if any, to release him."
He remains in the Atlantic County Justice Facility.
