Greece Police rifle, tactical gear stolen from car outside gym

GREECE, N.Y. – An AR15-style rifle belonging to a police officer was stolen Tuesday — and is still missing.

Greece Police say it happened between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. at ESPORTA on West Ridge Road near Latona Road.

“The suspect(s) damaged the window of the locked vehicle to gain entry and defeat several measures taken to secure the firearm and vest carrier to the body of the vehicle,”

statement from Greece Police

A rifle bag and green body armor vest carrier were also stolen. The rifle has “TAC10” inscribed on it.

According to Greece Police Chief Michael Wood, the officer’s car was the only car broken into in the parking lot. He said the officer will not face disciplinary action. “Proper protocols were followed for storage. Vehicle was forcibly entered and additional damage was done inside the vehicle to access and steal the equipment,” Wood said.

Wood said officers were exhausting early leads throughout the week before deciding to go public with the information three days later.

Gym members were shocked to hear about the incident.

“I don’t get the whole concept of breaking into cars and stealing things, let alone a gun,” said Bailey Sykes, who has been coming to the gym for two years and has never felt unsafe parking his car. “For the most part, I’ve had no real safety concerns. I keep tools in the back of my car. It’s expensive stuff. I’ve personally had no issues.”

Carney Cacciavillano, another gym member, says he always hides his belongings before heading in for a workout due to the risk of theft.

“The gym, this particular one, opens at 5 a.m., and you feel a little vulnerable at that time, so you are vigilant on your car, making sure everything is covered,” Cacciavillano said. “I have a Jeep too, so it’s very easy to break into, but also cover all your valuables too because especially toward the city? That’s fair game.”

Greece Police say whoever stole the equipment broke through the window and was able to bypass several security measures taken to secure the rifle.

“I go to several gyms, and I worry about valuables in the car. And in some cities, it’s very important,” Cacciavillano said.

“Quite honestly, I’m surprised anyone would have the gall to do that,” said one Greece resident, reacting to the theft.

This isn’t the first time Greece Police have had to deal with a stolen firearm. Back in 1999, then Police Chief Merritt Rahn’s service revolver was stolen from his unlocked police car parked in his driveway. Rahn left the department in 2009 and spent more than two years in prison for a police cover-up.

Police are asking anyone who has information to call the tipline at (585) 581-4016, email GPDTIPS@greeceny.gov, or call 911.

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