(WNY News Now) – Silver Creek – A Silver Creek man faces serious charges after being found with a defaced loaded firearm, following an altercation on August 11.

On August 11, 2024, Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the Village of Silver Creek in response to a reported altercation. The investigation, which was subsequently taken over by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division, led to the arrest of James M. Hurley Jr., 31, of Silver Creek.

Hurley was discovered to be in possession of a defaced Rock Island Armory Model 206 .38 Special, a firearm loaded with ammunition. This discovery prompted his arrest on September 4, 2024. He has been charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Penal Law 265.03) and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Penal Law 265.02).

Hurley was transported to the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office for arraignment. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to review the circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm. As are all persons accused of a crime, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.