Utica man arrested for shooting threats

Sent messages threatening to shoot people with AK-47

UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — A Utica man faces multiple weapons charges after sending messages threatening to shoot people with an AK-47 on Wednesday, April 24, according to Utica Police.

Officers were advised regarding an incident where an individual — later identified as 42-year-old Edward Reesh of Utica — was making statements threatening to shoot individuals with an AK-47. It was reported to officers that Reesh was sending messages to other individuals threatening to shoot them, as well as sending pictures of the gun in his possession. Further investigation revealed that Reesh had allegedly made similar threats to other parties, allegedly threatening them by showing them rifle magazines.

Utica Police filed an Extreme Risk Protection Order for Reesh and units went to his residence, on the 1400 block of Taylor Avenue. Police say a search of Reesh’s residence found the rifle mentioned, as well as magazines and various other firearm parts.

After the search, Reesh was taken into custody and transported to the Utica Police Department.

Reesh is being charged with:

• Four counts of third-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon, a Class D Violent Felony.

According to Utica Police, one of those charges was because of a previous conviction. Two of those charges were for large-capacity ammunition devices, and the other charge was for the possession of the assault rifle.