State Police arrested five people in Deerpark on gun charges foll...

On October 16, 2024, at approximately 4:47 p.m., members of Troop F Community Stabilization Unit (CSU) observed a 2006 Lexus traveling east bound on Interstate 84 in the town of Deerpark, NY, in violation of numerous New York Vehicle and Traffic Laws.

Troopers initiated a traffic stop and identified the operator as Jaykris Vargas, age 23 of Middletown, NY. While interviewing Vargas, troopers developed probable cause to search the vehicle. While searching the vehicle, troopers located a loaded semi-automatic handgun. The vehicle was occupied by four male passengers, Paris Hinds, age 19, of Middletown, NY, and three juveniles all ranging from the ages of 16 to 17.

All occupants of the vehicle were subsequently arrested and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd and Criminal Possession of a Firearm both felonies. Vargas and Hinds were arraigned in the City of Middletown Court and the three juveniles were arraigned in the Orange County Youth Court.