NEWFIELD — A months-long investigation led Tompkins County sheriff’s deputies and federal agents to a mobile home park in Newfield on Tuesday, where authorities say they seized 15 firearms and materials believed to be used for constructing improvised explosive devices.
The search warrant was executed December 9 at a residence on Douglas Road with assistance from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Deputies reported recovering six handguns, an Uzi-style firearm equipped with a 50-round magazine, and two additional high-capacity magazines.
During the search, investigators found materials they suspected could be used to build explosive devices. Out of caution, deputies stopped the search and requested the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad. The squad responded, removed the materials, and rendered them safe. Officials said no nearby residents were put at risk during the operation.
Ransome S. Vanriper, 48, of Newfield, was charged with 12 felony counts following the raid. Those charges include six counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, five counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property. Vanriper was arraigned through centralized arraignment and remanded to the Tompkins County Jail on $50,000 bail.
Authorities emphasized that the charges are accusations and that Vanriper is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Sheriff Derek Osborne said the case underscores the department’s wider efforts to curb gun violence.
“The Sheriff’s Office is taking decisive action to address gun-involved violence through focused enforcement and intelligence-driven GIVE initiatives,” Osborne said. “These efforts are aimed at removing illegal firearms from our communities, holding those who commit violent crimes accountable, and preventing further harm. Our priority remains the safety of residents while respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals we serve.”
The Sheriff’s Office thanked the DEA and the Onondaga County Bomb Squad for their assistance.
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