NYPD detective from Staten Island charged again for stockpiling untraceable firearms, previously arrested for similar offenses.
A Staten Island-based NYPD detective, Anthony Sciortino, has found himself entangled in legal troubles once again, facing weapons charges following a previous arrest concerning the possession of illegal firearms. On Thursday morning, the 36-year-old detective was apprehended around 8:20 a.m. on Staten Island’s North Shore. He has been charged with attempted criminal purchase or disposal of a weapon, according to police reports.
Sciortino’s legal issues began in November 2024 when authorities executed a raid on his residence in Princes Bay. During this operation, law enforcement officials discovered an alarming collection of 19 unregistered firearms, including four ghost guns—firearms manufactured without serial numbers and thus difficult to trace. His original charges included manufacturing a machine gun and a rapid-fire modification device, outlined in a 17-count indictment.
In addition to the firearm-related allegations, prosecutors contended that Sciortino had falsified police reports and unlawfully accessed NYPD records for unethical purposes. The implications of these actions are significant, as Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon noted that Sciortino’s activities could have posed a severe threat to public safety. McMahon pointed out that the proliferation of ghost guns is particularly concerning due to their untraceable nature, which complicates law enforcement efforts to track illegal weapons.
According to McMahon, Sciortino’s actions represent a profound breach of trust. He abused his position to conduct unauthorized searches and manipulate sensitive information, which undermines the integrity of the law enforcement profession and diminishes public trust in the justice system. Sciortino’s behavior, deemed a serious misconduct, could jeopardize the safety of the very community he is sworn to protect.
Following his initial arrest in 2024, Sciortino has been suspended without pay. As the case proceeds through the judicial system, he was granted supervised release during his arraignment. His record with the NYPD reveals a problematic history, including three substantiated complaints for misconduct and involvement in at least seven lawsuits related to allegations of false arrest and unauthorized searches.
The latest round of charges appears to be linked to an incident from 2021. During his recent arraignment, Sciortino entered a plea of not guilty and was released on his recognizance. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 25, 2024, as he continues to navigate the complexities of his ongoing legal battles. As the case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement agencies in maintaining public trust and integrity.
