New York Man Gets 10 Years For “Arsenal” Of Ghost Guns

Many States have no laws against ghost guns, but New York has taken a strict stance against these firearms. This should hardly come as a surprise, as the Empire State has some of the toughest gun laws in the entire nation. Nevertheless, the penalties associated with ghost guns may be shocking – especially if you’re facing them personally. In this situation, it’s best to get in touch with a defense attorney right away.

Brooklyn Man Sentenced to 10 Years for “Over a Dozen” Ghost Guns 

In May of 2024, NBC New York reported that a man had been sentenced to 10 years behind bars for possessing an arsenal of ghost guns. Police found more than a dozen of these firearms in his apartment, which were apparently constructed using mail-order kits. He used these kits to construct four AR-15 style rifles, five handguns, and four other rifles. He was also found with 50 rounds of ammunition.

As the police continued to search the apartment, they found more incriminating evidence. Perhaps most notably, they uncovered a 3D printer and a range of gun-making tools. There were also plenty of materials to construct and “reload” ammunition – including shell casings and gunpowder.

Possessing the ghost guns was not the man’s only offense. He also failed to get a license before obtaining the weapons. Although the reporters pointed out that he did not lock his ammunition in a safe, this is not technically required under New York State law. The only requirement is that you keep your firearms locked and separate from the ammunition.

Are Ghost Guns Illegal in New York? 

The 2021 Scott J. Beigel Unfinished Receiver Act effectively banned ghost guns in New York. For reference, ghost guns are firearms without proper serial numbers. By purchasing an unfinished receiver online (or anywhere else), it is possible to assemble a complete firearm without ever having a “serialized” component. This makes the firearm difficult to trace for law enforcement purposes. Possession of a single ghost gun can lead to up to four years in prison.

A firearms license is only necessary for shotguns and manually operated rifles in New York City. Outside of New York City, you do not need to obtain a firearm license for these weapons. Examples of manually operated rifles include pump-action, bolt-action, lever-action, and single-shot. Even though ghost guns are illegal in New York, they are relatively easy to purchase in other states over the Internet. Some of these online companies will ship ghost guns to New York addresses – as the recent case illustrates.

Find an Experienced Rockland County Defense Lawyer 

If you’ve been searching for an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Rockland County, look no further than Philip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law. Over the years, we have helped numerous defendants fight charges. We understand how serious firearms offenses can be in New York – especially when it comes to ghost guns. Reach out today to discuss your situation in more detail – and get started with an effective action plan.

Sources: 

nbcnewyork.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/brooklyn-arsenal-ghost-guns-rifles-found-bushwick-apartment/5409094/

nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/PEN/265.45