Man pleads guilty to keeping explosives at his Escondido home

VISTA - A man who kept explosives and converted fireworks into bombs at his Escondido home pleaded guilty today to possession of a dangerous or deadly weapon - a felony - and a misdemeanor charge of possession of fireworks without a permit.

Richard Hinkel, 46, is expected to be sentenced on Nov. 21 to 180 days in jail and probation, said Deputy District Attorney Terri Perez. She said a three-year prison term will be stayed, but would be imposed if Hinkel violates probation over the next five years.

Hinkel will also be prohibited from possessing fireworks and must complete alcohol and mental he...