A Wisconsin man was sentenced to 29 months in prison for possessing chemicals that could be used to create chlorine gas, a substance considered dangerous and potentially lethal. James Morgan, previously known as Karactus Blome, received the sentence from United States District Judge Brett Ludwig on August 1, 2025.
Morgan had pleaded guilty to one count of possessing chemical weapon precursors with intent other than peaceful purposes. The chemicals found in his storage unit by the FBI during a search on December 21, 2023, could be combined to produce large amounts of chlorine gas.
Court documents show that Morgan studied chemistry at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and described himself as a weapon designer who did not need conventional weapons. In videos and messages, he discussed plans to make significant quantities of chlorine gas quickly. He also talked about using the gas against government agents if they came for his guns and shared information about purchasing the chemicals.
The FBI Laboratory determined that the substances Morgan possessed could result in serious health effects or death if released as chlorine gas.
During sentencing, Judge Ludwig emphasized the danger posed by chlorine gas and noted Morgan’s awareness of its potential harm to law enforcement. The judge also highlighted the importance of deterring others from similar actions.
“The defendant’s conduct posed a serious risk to others and the community as a whole,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard G. Frohling. “This individual spent substantial time discussing and constructing weapons and expressing opposition to law enforcement and individuals whose race, ethnic origin, or backgrounds differed from his. I commend the hard work and collaboration of everyone involved in seeking to hold him accountable for his criminal activity.”
FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle stated: “Mr. Morgan obtained commercially available chemicals with an intent to manufacture chemical weapons which could have had a devastating impact to citizens and law enforcement officers in Wisconsin. Morgan is already serving a two-year sentence for possessing destructive devices. The Milwaukee Field Office of the FBI will continue to work aggressively with our partners to prevent the acquisition and use of weapons of mass destruction."
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Scully with assistance from Trial Attorney Justin Sher from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
