NY State Police released this image after charging a convicted felon with illegally possessing firearms in Cortland County. (Photo from NYSP)


CORTLAND COUNTY - On March 6, the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation and uniformed NY State Troopers executed a search warrant at a property on Wildman Road in the Town of Solon, Cortland County, as part of an investigation into possible animal neglect.

The investigation resulted in the removal of 41 animals. It was determined that five goats, two cows, a pig, twenty-eight chickens, four ducks and a cat were in need of immediate medical care.

During the investigation, it was discovered that Kyle Heller, 38 ,of Solon, was in alleged possession of several firearms. Police said Heller is not able to legally possess firearms because he is a convicted felon.

Heller was charged with third degree criminal possession of a weapon, a class “D” felony; three counts of third degree criminal possession of a weapon(possession of large capacity magazines), class "D" felonies; third degree criminal possession of an assault weapon, Class “D” felonies; four counts of fourth degree criminal possession of a weapon, misdemeanors.

Charges related to the animals are pending as investigators are awaiting veterinary reports.

NY Troopers were assisted by the Susquehanna SPCA, the Cortland County SPCA and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Heller was transported to the Cortland County Correctional Facility pending arraignment in court.

The investigation is on-going.

- Information from the NYSP