Arsenal found in Calabasas

A Calabasas man is being held on $5 million bail after deputies discovered a large collection of weapons and explosives in his home.

Michael Bruce O'Connell, a 57-year-old resident of Calabasas Highlands, was arrested July 14 on eight felony counts of possessing weapons, destructive devices and ingredients to make destructive devices, according to Det. F. Bausmith of the Lost Hills Sheriff's Station.

Kern Dardick, a neighbor, had obtained a restraining order against O'Connell and called the Lost Hills station July 14.

"She indicated that the person was in violation of the restraining order," Bausmith said. "A search was made and that's when the discovery of weapons took place."

A neighbor said deputies spent eight hours retrieving the weapons and devices from O'Connell's home. No indication was given as to why he had the items.

Among the weapons were a machine gun and a silencer.

Charges were filed in Los Angeles Superior Court at Van Nuys.

Bausmith said O'Connell had been arraigned and was still in custody on $5-million bail.

"In totality, when you have these types of charges and are violating laws pertaining to assault weapons and explosive devices, especially ones that are active, eight counts will really jump the bail," Bausmith said.