Bakersfield Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Meth, Dynamite Possession

Felon kept 50 pounds of explosives hidden in underground cave near trailer

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A 44-year-old Bakersfield man, Matthew Henry Jacober, has been sentenced to 5 years in prison for being a felon in possession of explosives and for manufacturing crystal methamphetamine. Authorities discovered that Jacober had 50 pounds of dynamite hidden in an underground cave about 10-15 feet from his travel trailer, in addition to being in the process of making meth in the trailer.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers posed by individuals with criminal histories who are able to obtain and conceal large quantities of explosives and illicit drugs. The combination of meth production and dynamite possession raises serious public safety concerns, especially in a residential area like Bakersfield.

The details

Jacober was previously convicted in 2021 of making a destructive device without a permit, a felony that prohibited him from legally possessing explosives. Despite this, authorities discovered that Jacober had 50 pounds of dynamite hidden in an underground cave near his travel trailer, where he was also found to be manufacturing crystal methamphetamine.

  • Jacober was convicted of making a destructive device without a permit in 2021.
  • Jacober pleaded guilty to the current charges in November 2025.
  • Jacober was sentenced to 5 years in prison in February 2026.

The players

Matthew Henry Jacober

A 44-year-old Bakersfield resident who was sentenced to 5 years in prison for being a felon in possession of explosives and manufacturing crystal methamphetamine.

U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California

The federal prosecutor's office that announced Jacober's sentencing.

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What’s next

The judge's sentence of 5 years in prison for Jacober's crimes will take effect immediately.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for stronger enforcement and monitoring of individuals with criminal histories who may pose a threat to public safety through the possession of illegal drugs and explosives, even in residential areas.