Threat complaint leads to major drug bust in Utica

1Utica man arrested after ERPO enforcement leads to major drug bust

UTICA, NY – A court-authorized firearm restriction order led to the discovery of over 100 grams of illegal drugs and more than $13,000 in cash during a search of a Utica residence, police said Thursday.

Utica Police executed an Emergency Risk Protection Order (ERPO) at 748 Blandina Street on Wednesday after receiving a report of a man making threatening statements. The ERPO, approved by a judge, allowed officers to temporarily seize firearms and conduct a protective search of the property.

During the initial search, officers uncovered a large quantity of suspected narcotics, prompting investigators to pause enforcement and secure a separate search warrant for contraband. Once granted, the warrant led to the discovery o