Airmont Official Accused Of Illegal Weapons Arsenal: Rockland DA

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — Brian Downey, Airmont's deputy mayor, was arrested Thursday and accused of buying illegal gun after federal and county agents with a search warrant searched his house.

Downey was charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the first degree (B felony), seven counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree (D felony), and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree (D felony).

Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh announced the arrest as a result of a federal, county and local investigation into the purchasing of illegal gun parts. Department of Homeland Security agents made the District Attorney’s Office aware of the delivery of a rifle suppression device over the internet.

After the search and arrest, Downey, 47, was transported to the Ramapo Police Department for processing.

The investigation consisted of the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, Department of Homeland Security, and the United States Postal Service Inspectors.

"Today's arrest of an individual who was entrusted by the public to serve his community is a sad day for our County. I pledged during my campaign that if elected, that I would be a District Attorney that would act without fear or favor. Today's arrest is another example of my commitment to the citizens of Rockland County," Walsh said in a statement.

"Gun-related violence is on the rise in Rockland County and around our Country. The District Attorney's office is committed to find ways to drive down the sale of illegal firearms, possession of unlawful firearm components, as well as the modification of weapons that the public should not have in their possession. During an early morning raid on the defendant's home, the Rockland County District Attorney's office and our federal partners removed an arsenal of weapons from his residence."

"Our community is without a doubt safer today than it was yesterday," Walsh said. "We would like to extend our gratitude to Homeland Security and the United States Postal Inspector for their assistance with our office's investigation. In addition, we would like to thank the Town of Ramapo Police Department for their assistance today in the apprehension of this individual. Cooperation like this only amounts to better service for our citizens and to a safer Rockland County for all of us."

Additional charges are expected, he said.

Gun enthusiasts peppered the DA's Facebook announcement of the arrest with comments about tyranny and the Second Amendment.