Mission man charged with producing counterfeit bills, explosives

A 37-year old St. Ignatius man appeared in federal court last week on multiple charges of distribution of explosive materials, manufacturing counterfeit currency and possession of counterfeit currency.

Donald Paul Roberts pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Bill Mercer, U.S. attorney for the district of Montana, said that on or around June 30, Roberts allegedly dealt in importing, manufacturing and dealing in explosive materials without a license.

The investigation was carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

During the same time, Roberts also allegedly unlawfully taught or demonstrated the making or use of an explosive, a destructive device, and a weapon of mass destruction, and distributed information pertaining to the manufacture and use of said devices.

The U.S. attorney also alleges Roberts falsely made and counterfeited $20 and $100 bills.

If convicted, Roberts faces up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years supervised release.