Las Vegas ? An unemployed graphic designer who authorities believe was nearly killed by ricin was arrested Wednesday on federal charges that he possessed the deadly toxin as part of an “exotic idea,” never carried out, to poison his enemies.

Roger Bergendorff, who authorities allege began making ricin a decade ago, was arrested upon his release from the hospital where he had been treated since Feb. 14.

He is charged with possession of a biological toxin and two weapons offenses stemming from materials authorities said were found Feb. 26 and Feb. 28 in his room at an extended-stay motel several blocks off the Las Vegas Strip.

The charges carry a possible penalty of 30 years in federal prison and a $750,000 fine. After a court appearance Wednesday afternoon, a federal judge ordered that Bergendorff, 57, remain in custody until a preliminary hearing May 2.