Peter Celentano, a 36-year-old resident of Bergen, NY, has pleaded guilty to illegal possession of machineguns. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. The offense carries a potential maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola detailed the events leading up to the plea. On September 29, 2024, law enforcement agencies including the New York State Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives executed a search warrant at Celentano’s residence in Bergen. This search yielded numerous items such as 3D printed pistol frames and two 3D printed machinegun conversion devices among other firearm-related materials.
Further searches at properties in Lyndonville and Medina resulted in the seizure of over 200 firearms linked to Celentano. These included AR-style lower receivers and additional firearm parts.
The investigation revealed that Celentano provided another individual with nine lower receivers—two of which were classified as machineguns due to their "third pin hole." These firearms were later discarded into the Erie Canal off Beals Road Bridge by an associate known to Celentano. A dive team from the New York State Police recovered several items from beneath the bridge including a cardboard box containing AR-style receivers and an unmarked handgun.
The case is part of an ongoing investigation conducted by multiple agencies: New York State Police led by Major Kevin Sucher; Genesee County Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff Joseph M. Graff; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives headed by Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller.
Sentencing for Peter Celentano is set for October 6, 2025 before Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
