A multi-agency operation led by the New York State Police Troop E Violent Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team uncovered a large stash of narcotics, firearms, and explosives during a raid at a residence on Staples Road in Erin on February 4. The raid followed a three-month investigation into suspected criminal activity.
The operation involved numerous specialized units, including the State Police Special Operations Response Team (SORT), Contaminated Crime Scene Emergency Response Team (CCSERT), and the Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU), alongside the Elmira Police Department’s Drug Enforcement Unit. Authorities also deployed unmanned aerial systems and crisis negotiators to assist with the search.
During the raid, police seized approximately four ounces of methamphetamine oil, one ounce of crystal methamphetamine, and drug packaging materials. They also discovered and confiscated $4,700 in cash.
Among the 20 firearms seized were several with defaced serial numbers, including an AK-47, a “ghost gun” AR-10, and an SKS rifle. Officers recovered two sawed-off shotguns, multiple bolt-action and lever-action rifles, and high-capacity magazines. Authorities also removed 10,000 rounds of assorted ammunition and approximately 20 pounds of binary explosive material.
Two men were arrested. Robert R. Budnick, 42, of Erin, faces charges of second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He was arraigned in Horseheads Town Court and is being held at Chemung County Jail on $250,000 bail or $1,000,000 bond.
Buck L. Bates, 40, of Elmira, was charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. He was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Erin Town Court on February 25.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing.
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