A Smithtown man was arrested after Suffolk County Police discovered a cache of weapons and fireworks in his home during a raid on Independence Day.
Fourth Precinct Crime Section officers executed a search warrant at 22 Pia Boulevard on July 4, at approximately 2:40 p.m. During their investigation, they found the homeowner, Christopher Giancola, in possession of a dangerous arsenal.
The police confiscated two assault rifles, two handguns, several high-capacity feeding devices, and numerous bullets. In addition to the weapons, they seized 15 boxes of fireworks, including approximately 100 mortars and two large firework cakes.
Giancola, 52, faces a litany of charges: five counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, five counts of Criminal Contempt 2nd Degree, two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th Degree, and one count of Possession of Fireworks. Giancola pled not guilty to charges on July 6th and released on bail. He is due back in court on July 10th.
Authorities emphasized that a criminal charge is an accusation, and Giancola is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This significant seizure underscores the ongoing efforts by Suffolk County Police to maintain community safety, especially on holidays when illegal fireworks can pose heightened risks.
Photos: SCPD.
