STATEN ISLAND, NY – An off-duty New York City Police Department detective was arrested Thursday morning on Staten Island and charged with an illegal weapons offense, authorities said.
Police identified the officer as 36-year-old Anthony Sciortino, a detective assigned to the NYPD.
The arrest took place at 8:25 a.m. within the confines of the 120th Precinct, which covers the St. George area.
Key Points
- Off-duty NYPD Detective Anthony Sciortino was arrested Thursday morning in Staten Island.
- The 36-year-old detective faces a charge of criminal purchase or disposal of a weapon.
- The arrest occurred within the 120th Precinct at approximately 8:25 a.m.
NYPD confirms internal investigation
An NYPD spokesperson confirmed Sciortino’s arrest and said the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau has opened an investigation into the incident. The spokesperson declined to provide details about the alleged weapon transaction or whether it involved an unauthorized firearm.
Administrative action pending
Sources said Sciortino has been suspended from duty pending the outcome of the criminal case and departmental review. The NYPD routinely places officers on modified or suspended status when facing serious charges involving firearms or misconduct.
Charge details under review
Under New York State law, the charge of criminal purchase or disposal of a weapon generally applies to individuals accused of unlawfully buying, selling, or transferring firearms outside authorized channels. Officials have not yet disclosed whether the incident involved an undercover operation or a private transaction.
Department policy and oversight
The arrest underscores the department’s continued enforcement of internal accountability measures. The NYPD has maintained that all officers — on or off duty — are held to the same legal standards as civilians when it comes to firearm laws.
Sciortino’s case has been referred to the Richmond County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.