A man accused of plotting to detonate an explosive at a large Jewish center in South Florida has made his first federal court appearance.

A magistrate judge on Monday appointed a public defender for 40-year-old James Medina, who was arrested Friday. Medina faces life in prison if convicted of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction.

A bond hearing for Medina is set for Thursday. His attorney had no immediate comment.

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz identified the intended target as the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center, which includes a synagogue and school. Wasserman Schultz represents many of its congregants, who were celebrating Passover last week.

Authorities say an FBI undercover investigation provided Medina with an inert device, and he was arrested after accepting it.

(AP)