(WNY News Now) A Franklinville resident was arrested when the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) discovered a more serious criminal violation during a regular wildlife inquiry.
Franklinville, New York After the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) launched a criminal investigation into the unlawful harvesting of three deer, Patrick G. Stone, 55, was taken into custody.
Stone, a convicted criminal, was found to be in possession of a firearm throughout the investigation, which was a clear violation of New York State law. It is illegal for convicted felons to handle or possess weapons.
The Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office then arrested Stone and charged him with fourth-degree criminal possession of a handgun.
Stone will face the accusations when he appears in Franklinville Town Court later. The accused is deemed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, just like everyone else who is accused of a crime.