Airmont Deputy Mayor Arrested on Multiple Gun Related Charges

Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh announced the execution of a search warrant and the arrest of the Airmont Deputy Mayor as a result of a federal, county and local investigation into the purchasing of illegal gun parts Thursday.

This afternoon Brian Downey, 47, of Airmont, NY was taken into custody for purchasing a rifle suppression device over the internet. Department of Homeland Security agents made the District Attorney’s Office aware of the delivery of the illegal device to the residence on Edgebrook Lane in Airmont. Downey, the Deputy Mayor of the Village of Airmont, 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.

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).

“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.

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 (see photos).

Our community is without a doubt safer today than it was yesterday. 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, said District Attorney Walsh.”

The investigation is on-going, and we expect additional charges will be forthcoming.

It should be noted that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.