NYPD Discovers 3D Printed Ghost Guns in Manhattan Day Care

New York City officials sounded the alarm Wednesday after police found materials for 3D printed ghost guns at a Manhattan day care facility. This shocking discovery comes in the wake of the recent death of a 1-year-old from fentanyl exposure at a Bronx day care.

Mayor Eric Adams, along with NYPD and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, held a press conference at police headquarters to address the concerning situation. Adams expressed concern for parents who trust these day care centers with their children's safety, emphasizing the need for vigilance and staying ahead of those who engage in dangerous activities.

The tragic death of 1-year-old Nicholas Dominici at a Bronx day care on September 15 has raised serious questions about the safety protocols in such facilities. Despite passing a surprise inspection just weeks before the incident, three other children were hospitalized due to fentanyl exposure. The city's Health Commissioner, Ashwin Vasan, admitted that the inspectors were not trained to detect fentanyl, highlighting the need for updated inspection protocols.

In a separate investigation, the NYPD executed three search warrants related to the sale and manufacture of privately made firearms, known as PMFs. As a result, three individuals, including an 18-year-old and two minors, were arrested. Notably, these arrests led the authorities to a licensed day care facility in Manhattan, where they discovered a 3D printer and materials used for creating ghost guns.

The discoveries of 3D printed firearms and the presence of fentanyl have underscored the growing trend of dangerous activities happening in day care centers. Mayor Adams expressed disbelief that methods of creating unsafe environments, such as 3D printers, necessitate additional inspections. He emphasized the importance of modifying and expanding inspection protocols to keep up with the evolving methods of those who seek to do harm.

City officials have pledged to remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure the safety of children at day care centers. They plan to form a working group comprising health professionals, law enforcement officials, and prosecutors to review and enhance the existing inspection list. Training inspectors to recognize firearms, illegal substances, and other dangerous items will be a priority.

The alarming rise in privately made firearms, including ghost guns, has become a global problem. In the last three years alone, the NYPD has recovered a significant number of PMFs and gun parts. Additionally, the Manhattan day care facility that was recently raided had violated certain documentation requirements during its last inspection.

Mayor Adams warned parents about the dangers lurking on online forums, where individuals openly share blueprints for 3D printed firearms and provide instructions on making ghost guns. He emphasized that these activities prey on young individuals who are adept at using technology and noted the need to address this frightening issue.

Ultimately, this recent incident has shed light on the critical need to strengthen safety measures in day care facilities. The story serves as a reminder that the well-being of our children should always be our top priority.