04/18/2026
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗔𝗿𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘀
Smithtown, NY — A proactive patrol by Smithtown Department of Public Safety officers resulted in the arrest of a 24-year-old Salvadoran national on multiple weapon-related charges. As a result of the subsequent case presented by Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney’s Office, the defendant was indicted by a Suffolk County grand jury.
Miguel Enrique Astudillo Ruiz was arraigned on Friday, April 17, 2026, before Suffolk County Supreme Court Justice John Collins following his indictment by a Suffolk County grand jury. He was ordered held on $50,000 cash, $500,000 bond, or $500,000 partially secured bond while the case is pending. He is due back in court on May 7, 2026.
The defendant was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, under New York State Penal Law §265.03(3), for allegedly possessing a loaded fi***rm. He was also charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, under New York State Penal Law §265.02(8), for allegedly possessing a large capacity am******on feeding device, as well as Criminal Possession of a Fi***rm, under New York State Penal Law §265.01-b(1). If convicted on the top count, the defendant faces up to 15 years in prison.
Sergeant Dennihy observed a male individual signaling to two additional males while loading scrap metal into the vehicle. Upon approach, the Sergeant noted tools commonly used for removing metal, along with scrap materials already inside the car. Recognizing the suspicious circumstances, Sergeant Dennihy requested backup units while attempting to identify the individuals involved.
Responding to the scene were Fire Marshal McCarthy, Park Rangers Abbazia and Crocilla and Fire Marshal Lauri, who assisted in the investigation. During the interaction, Sergeant Dennihy observed spent shell casings in the vehicle’s center console.
During further investigation officers observed and recovered a handgun which was seen protruding from beneath the passenger seat. The individual was immediately taken into custody without incident and transported to the Suffolk County Fourth Precinct, where he was processed by Fourth Squad Detectives.
Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
“This arrest highlights the exceptional instincts and professionalism that our officers bring to the job every single day. All of our officers demonstrated exactly what proactive policing should look like— situational awareness, knowledge of their sector, observation, sound judgment, and the ability to quickly assess and address a potentially dangerous situation. Just as importantly, their calm, measured approach and effective de-escalation tactics ensured that this incident was resolved safely and without injury. I commend all of the officers involved for their commitment to serving the residents of the Town of Smithtown in the highest fashion and removing an illegal fi***rm from the streets.” - Chief Thomas J. Lohmann, Director of Smithtown Department of Public Safety
