CITY OF NEWBURGH, NY — A sweeping pre-dawn raid conducted on Wednesday morning has led to one of the largest gun trafficking crackdowns in Orange County history. The operation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in collaboration with approximately 20 law enforcement agencies from across the region.
Multi-Agency Crackdown Targets Illegal Firearms Pipeline
The large-scale operation focused on dismantling a gun trafficking network believed to have brought illegal firearms into Orange County for resale. Agencies involved in the raid included the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and police departments from Newburgh, Middletown, and Port Jervis, among others.
Raids were carried out in multiple jurisdictions, including the Town of Wallkill, City of Newburgh, and extended into New York City, Pennsylvania, and Georgia — indicating the scope and reach of the criminal enterprise.
Firearms and Narcotics Recovered
Authorities seized a substantial cache of weapons during the coordinated raid. The haul included pistols, rifles, and even automatic firearms, underscoring the serious threat posed by the trafficking ring. Alongside the illegal guns, law enforcement also recovered narcotics, further deepening the charges against the suspects.
In total, around 20 individuals were arrested and face various charges related to illegal firearm possession and drug trafficking. Officials confirmed that the firearms were trafficked across state lines and sold illegally in Orange County communities.
Upcoming News Conference to Reveal More Details
Officials have scheduled a news conference for 10 a.m. on Friday to release additional details regarding the operation, the identities of those arrested, and the broader implications for gun violence and trafficking in the region.
Law enforcement representatives say the bust is a major step toward curbing illegal firearms activity in the Hudson Valley and nearby areas.
Community Impact
This coordinated raid marks a significant victory for public safety officials, as illegal firearms are often tied to violent crimes in the region. By targeting the supply chain, authorities aim to reduce gun violence and keep high-powered weapons out of the hands of criminals.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious firearm activity to local authorities. The collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies showcases a united front in the fight against illegal gun trafficking.
Further updates will follow as the investigation continues and more information is released.
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