Teenager faces weapons charges after Thursday night arrest

Ghost gun found during search

UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — A Utica teenager faces weapons charges after a late-night arrest on Thursday, April 18, according to Utica Police.

Officers were conducting a detail relative to shooting investigations in the city at approximately 9:15 PM Thursday night. During their patrol, police say they attempted to conduct a citizen stop of two parties, when one of them fled on foot.

The teenage male allegedly attempted to run down a driveway and behind a residence. Officers then were able to catch up with him and detain him. As officers took the suspect into custody, the suspect made an admission that he had a handgun.

Officers say they then found a nine-millimeter ghost gun in a fanny pack when conducting a search of the suspect. Due to his age, the suspect was transported to the Juvenile Aid Unit at the Utica Police Department.

The teenager has been charged with:

• second-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon, a Class C Violent Felony,
• Criminal Possession of a Firearm, a Class E Felony,
• Obstruction of Governmental Administration, a Class A Misdemeanor, and
• a New York State Vehicle and Traffic law violation.

Police say the suspect will be seen in Oneida County Family Court, Youth Part on Friday, April 19 for initial arraignment.