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Glastonbury Man Facing Federal Gun Charge
A Glastonbury man, Andrew Payne, is currently facing a federal gun charge after failing to turn in allegedly illegal firearms and manufacturing equipment in his possession. The 40-year-old has been charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm while being a user of a controlled substance, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. This charge carries a maximum term of 15 years in prison if convicted.
Background of the Case
Payne came under investigation by the ATF for his possible involvement in purchasing machine gun conversion devices, which are illegal under federal law. In March 2023, investigators met with Payne and informed him about the illegality of the devices. Payne, through his attorney, had agreed to surrender all his illegal devices to the ATF.
Incident at a Hotel
On November 29, 2023, the Hartford Police Department responded to a hotel on Brainard Road after employees found a firearm in the hallway. The guest in possession of the firearm, identified as Payne, was reportedly behaving erratically. During a search of his room, police found used hypodermic needles and evidence of drug use, along with a firearm registered to Payne.
Subsequent Arrests and Seizures
Following the hotel incident, Payne was charged with state offenses and ordered to surrender his firearms. However, on March 18, he was arrested by the Simsbury Police Department for violating the conditions of his release. Multiple firearms, firearm components, and manufacturing equipment were found in two units of a business complex in Simsbury linked to Payne.
Investigators seized the firearms and manufacturing equipment, including the illegal machine gun conversion devices Payne was aware of. Additionally, during a search of his vehicle, suspected fentanyl, glassine envelopes, and hypodermic needles were allegedly found and seized.
Court Proceedings
Payne was released after his initial arrest but was detained in state custody upon his second arrest. He made his initial appearance in Hartford federal court on Thursday to face the charges against him.
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