LIBERTY — A joint investigation by local law enforcement has resulted in the arrest of two Liberty residents and the seizure of a significant cache of illegal firearms, including so‑called “ghost guns” — privately manufactured, unserialized weapons that authorities say are increasingly linked to violent crime.

Darrin McCosco, 39, and Kimberly Murran, 33, were arrested on July 14 and face a litany of felony weapons charges, Sullivan County District Attorney Brian Conaty announced at a press conference Monday. The charges stem from a multi‑agency investigation that began with a stolen‑property complaint in Fallsburg and ultimately led police to a residence at 328 North Main Street in Liberty.

“This seizure is significant in both quantity and quality,” Conaty said. “Convicted felons in possession of over 10 firearms — many of which are untraceable and undetectable ghost guns — pose a very real threat to our community.”

According to Fallsburg Police Chief Brendan Pavese, the investigation began when his department received a report of stolen property. A drone unit was deployed to a location in Liberty, and law enforcement investigators discovered social media posts depicting what appeared to be illegal firearms.

Detectives from Fallsburg and Liberty collaborated to obtain a search warrant that night. The residence at 328 North Main and a vehicle under the defendants’ control were searched, resulting in the seizure of a large quantity of weapons and tactical equipment.

Among the items seized were several ghost guns — unserialized, privately made firearms, some of which police believe were likely 3D printed or assembled using unfinished parts. The search also uncovered five illegal semi-automatic handguns, multiple assault weapons as defined under New York law, seven unlawfully possessed rifles, a pump-action shotgun, and a semi-automatic handgun recovered from a vehicle McCosco was operating. In addition, officers seized 15 high-capacity magazines, unfinished firearm components, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and tactical gear, including a ballistic vest, night vision goggles, and armor-piercing rounds.

Murran was taken into custody at the residence. McCosco, who is legally barred from firearm possession due to a prior felony conviction under New York law, was arrested in Monticello as he exited a government building.

There was no indication the firearms were intended for immediate use, but their nature prompted alarm.

“Some of the simplest stuff — in the wrong hands — is real bad news,” Sheriff Michael Schiff said while standing near the table of confiscated weapons.

DA Conaty said the case would be presented to a grand jury and emphasized that both defendants remain innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. He credited the interagency collaboration with averting a potentially more serious threat.

“Because of the dedication of our law enforcement officers, they prevented something bigger from happening,” Chief Pavese added.

Authorities declined to comment on whether McCosco and Murran were involved in firearm manufacturing or distribution. The case remains under active investigation.