New York authorities are investigating a Queens man who was arrested on multiple illegal weapons charges after being found with an arsenal of weapons and NYPD uniform items just blocks from LaGuardia International Airport. The man, identified as Judd Sanson, 27, was pulled over by police for an illegally blacked-out license plate, leading to the discovery of a 9 mm Glock handgun, nine loaded magazines, 179 rounds of ammunition, body armor, handcuffs, a stun gun, knives, a sword, a weighted whip, an expandable baton, and two axes in his possession.
Additionally, a Guy Fawkes mask, an orange MTA vest, and an NYPD bulletproof vest were recovered from Sanson's vehicle. The District Attorney emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that the police potentially averted a disaster for the citizens of Queens, New York City, and beyond.
Authorities are now scrutinizing Sanson's social media accounts to determine his motivations. A disturbing photo on his Facebook page has raised concerns, prompting a deeper investigation into his intent. The recovered weapons, some of which were makeshift, along with threatening language inscribed on a baton found in his possession, have added to the suspicion surrounding Sanson.
While terrorism charges have not been filed yet, the investigation is ongoing, focusing on Sanson's mental state and any potential connections to extremist groups or individuals. The search for a missing weapon, as well as the discovery of a lockbox with a mismatched serial number, has further complicated the case.
Former New York Homeland Security adviser Michael Balboni outlined the process of investigating potential threats on social media, highlighting the importance of analyzing contacts, training history, and past criminal activities. The FBI's involvement in the case remains undisclosed at this time.
