(WNY News Now) – A Bergen man faces federal charges after a raid uncovered a large cache of firearm components, including machine guns, across multiple properties.
BUFFALO, N.Y. – Peter Celentano, a resident of Bergen, NY, has been arrested and charged with illegal possession of machine guns following a multi-agency investigation, U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today. The criminal complaint against Celentano could result in up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted.
On September 29, 2024, a joint operation by the New York State Police, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) led to a search of Celentano’s residence on Rochester Street in Bergen. During the search, investigators discovered two 3D-printed pistol frames, firearm parts, ammunition reloading equipment, and tools used for firearm manufacturing, including an AR 80% style Jig, a drill press, and other accessories.
Authorities extended their search to additional properties linked to Celentano in Lyndonville and Medina, NY, uncovering more firearm-related items, including numerous AR-style lower receivers and 3D-printed handguns. Investigators revealed that 59 of the AR-style receivers had an illegal “third pin hole,” qualifying them as machine guns under federal law.
Further intensifying the investigation, a dive team conducted a search beneath the Beals Road bridge in the Erie Canal on October 9, 2024. There, a submerged cardboard box containing 10 AR-style receivers, an unmarked handgun, and additional firearm parts was retrieved.
The investigation was spearheaded by the New York State Police, under the leadership of Major Miklos Szoczei II, alongside the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr., and the ATF, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller of the New York Field Division.
Celentano’s charges are pending in federal court. As with all criminal complaints, the charges are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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