Austerlitz man arrested for felony drug and weapon possession

Austerlitz, New York – On February 23, 2021, the New York State Police Troop K Violent Gang and Narcotic Enforcement Team (VGNET) arrested Gary M. Wood, age 52, of Austerlitz, for Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 1st degree, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd degree with intent to sell, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd degree, all class B felonies, ten counts of Criminal Possession of an Assault Weapon in the 3rd degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd degree, all class D felonies, Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, a class A misdemeanor, and a violation of Environmental Conservation Law 11-0512 Possession of Wild Animals as Pets.
 
On February 23, 2021, Troop K VGNET and NYSP Special Operations and Response Team executed a warrant issued by the Columbia County Court for a residence located at 289 Rigor Hill Road in the town of Austerlitz.  The State Police seized 59 illegally possessed firearms.  Among the guns seized were sixteen illegal assault rifles and two handguns.  Approximately 17.7 grams of cocaine and $3,250 in cash was also seized.
 
In the residence, Wood also illegally possessed a Capuchin monkey which was turned over to the Department of Environmental Conservation.  It is illegal to possess wild animals in NY without a permit.
 
Gary Wood was arraigned before the town of Ghent Court and remanded to the Columbia County Jail without bail.  He is scheduled to appear before the town of Austerlitz Court on February 25, 2021, at 2:00 p.m.
 
This investigation remains ongoing and updates will be provided when they become available.