Search Warrant Leads To Weapons And Explosive Material Seizure

On December 9, 2025, following a lengthy investigation, the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), executed a search warrant at a residence within a mobile home park on Douglas Road, in the Town of Newfield.

 During the search, investigators recovered 15 firearms, including six handguns, an Uzi-style firearm with a 50-round magazine, and two additional high-capacity magazines. While searching, investigators also located materials believed to be used in the construction of improvised explosive devices.

 Out of an abundance of caution, investigators halted the search and requested assistance from the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad. The Bomb Squad responded to the scene, safely removed the materials, and rendered them safe. Investigators took steps to ensure no area residents were put in harm's way.

As a result of the investigation and execution of the search warrant, 48 year old Ransome S. Vanriper of Newfield was charged with 12 felony counts, including:

• Six counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree

• Five counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree

• One count of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Fourth Degree

Vanriper was arraigned through Centralized Arraignment and remanded to the Tompkins County Jail on $50,000 bail.

 “The Sheriff’s Office is taking decisive action to address gun-involved violence through focused enforcement and intelligence-driven GIVE (Gun Involved Violence) initiatives," said Sheriff Osbourne. "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 Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this investigation.