"Johnny 5-0" Removes Old Dynamite in Colorado

Douglas County, Colorado The Douglas County Bomb Squad had an opportunity to utilize their bomb disposal robot after being called in to dispose of old dynamite found in a Colorado shed, once belonging to a construction company owner.

According to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office (DCSO), the dynamite was found in a metal container inside a residential shed. A spokesperson for office said, dynamite "can become extremely unstable with age."

The bomb squad rolled out "Johnny 5-0" for the removal operation, an Andros Spartan robot. The robot was remotely operated to grab the dynamite and move it to a pre-dug blast pit where it was countercharged with an explosive charge in a controlled detonation.

Johnny 5-0 was acquired by the department in early June. "Our previous robot was becoming outdated and couldn't handle many of the critical tasks this advanced tool now can," the sheriff's office said.

"Thanks to full federal funding, we've upgraded to a state-of-the-art asset that plays a vital role in keeping our community safe." The community helped name the robot Johnny 5-0, an apparent reference to 1986 sci-fi comedy film "Short Circuit."

The Douglas Fire Department was also on the scene during the disposal operations. The sheriff's office reminded residents who may encounter old explosives to avoid touching them and to call emergency services.