The Arrest of Lawrence Costa: Man with Loaded Gun Caught Sleeping in Brooklyn Subway Station
Video footage has surfaced showing the arrest of a man known to the NYPD who was found sleeping in a Brooklyn subway station with a loaded gun visible in his waistband. The man in question, identified as 45-year-old Lawrence Costa, was apprehended around 6:40 a.m. on Sunday at the Myrtle Avenue and Broadway station in Bed-Stuy.
Discovery of the Loaded Gun
When officers arrived at the station, they noticed a black gun in plain sight in Costa’s waistband as he slept on a subway staircase. Body camera footage captured the moment officers approached the sleeping suspect, revealing the gun and a colorful hoodie underneath.
As one officer pushed Costa awake and asked if he was okay, another officer proceeded to remove the gun from his waistband and handcuff him, ensuring the safety of the situation.
Smooth Arrest Process
Despite the potentially dangerous circumstances, Costa was arrested without incident. The NYPD shared the video of the arrest, emphasizing how straightforward the process was and commending the officers for their handling of the situation.
According to NYPD Traffic Chief Michael M. Kemper, Costa’s decision to fall asleep in a public place with an illegally possessed and loaded firearm was ill-advised. The department shared photos of the confiscated illegal firearms as evidence of the arrest.
Legal Ramifications for Costa
As a result of his actions, Costa is now facing multiple charges related to the unlawful possession of a weapon. The NYPD did not elaborate on Costa’s prior history with the department, leaving some details surrounding the case undisclosed.
Overall, the incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of illegal possession of firearms and the potential consequences individuals may face if caught violating the law. It also highlights the swift and effective response of law enforcement in ensuring public safety and handling such situations with professionalism.
