On August 4, 2026, members of the New York State Police Violent Gangs and Narcotics Enforcement Team (VGNET) executed a search warrant at a residence located at 8 Birchwood Drive in the town of Black Brook.
As a result of the search warrant, State Police seized 42 firearms, including two fully assembled assault rifles, one modified (sawed-off) shotgun, multiple major components for additional assault rifles, 11 high-capacity ammunition feeding devices, a large quantity of assorted ammunition, and approximately 50.9 grams of psilocybin mushrooms.
Michael S. Ward was arrested and charged with:
•Three counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd Degree (Class D Felony)
•One count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm (Class E Felony)
Ward was arraigned and remanded to the Clinton County Jail.