On Wednesday, authorities reported the retrieval of ghost guns and 3D printers from Alay’s Day Care, situated on East 117th Street, nestled between Park and Madison Avenues in Harlem. Three individuals were apprehended in connection with this incident, including an 18-year-old and two minors.
Mayor Eric Adams expressed his dismay, stating, “This is a heart-wrenching situation: Imagine thinking you’re leaving your child in a place of safety, only to discover it’s a hazardous environment where someone is manufacturing firearms.”
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism Rebecca Weiner emphasized, “It’s crucial to note that this privately owned residence, operating as a licensed day care under the subject’s mother, was the epicenter of these activities. Inside the day care premises, investigators uncovered a 3D printer, 3D printing tools, plastic filament, two fully assembled 3D printed firearms, one 3D printed assault pistol in the final stages of assembly, and an additional 3D printed lower receiver. Some of these acquisitions were accomplished through fraudulent means, including alleged identity theft involving multiple victims across the United States.”
Join me and @NYPDPC Caban at 1 Police Plaza now for a major announcement. https://t.co/zvf70vQulU
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) September 27, 2023
This discovery follows a recent tragedy in which a toddler tragically lost their life, and three others fell ill due to fentanyl exposure at a day care center in the Bronx.
Mayor Adams remarked, “Who would have anticipated that we’d need to add new items to our inspection checklist – such as the presence of 3D printers capable of producing firearms and substances like fentanyl?” He continued, “This is a distressing case. Now, in addition to fentanyl, we’re discovering that similar establishments also house ghost guns and the tools necessary for their production.”
Expressing his resolve for necessary changes, Mayor Adams stated, “We derive no satisfaction from discussing yet another incident where a home-based day care provider exposed children to a perilous environment. We simply want to assure parents entrusting their children to these centers that we will remain vigilant and adapt our regulations to stay one step ahead of individuals engaged in nefarious activities within environments where our children are placed.”
