A shocking discovery was made in a Long Island man’s home when a cache of nearly two dozen high-powered guns was found hidden behind a false wall in the basement closet. Todd Pinnell, 54, was arrested after officers uncovered 14 handguns, eight assault rifles, and ammunition feeders in his Lindenhurst house. Additionally, four ghost guns, firearms without serial numbers often used by criminals to conceal their tracks, were also among the weapons found.
During a bail hearing, Judge Alonzo Jacobs expressed shock at the number of weapons discovered, setting Pinnell’s bail at $100,000 cash or $200,000 bond, which was more than double what prosecutors had requested. This alarming find occurred during a parole sweep of Pinnell’s residence, with the suspect having a previous arrest and conviction for misdemeanor criminal weapons possession in 2023.
Facing 47 felony weapons charges, Pinnell’s attorney argued that he was simply a gun enthusiast and collector with no criminal record prior to the 2023 incident. Describing Pinnell as a range shooter and security professional with expertise in fire management, the attorney emphasized that the weapons were unloaded and posed no threat to the public. Pinnell’s lifelong involvement with firearms in a legal capacity, passed down from his grandfather, father, and brother, was also highlighted to support his innocence.
The attorney asserted that there was no intent to use the firearms recovered, as none were loaded. This information was shared in court to demonstrate that Pinnell’s possession of the weapons was not for nefarious purposes. Despite the gravity of the situation, Pinnell’s legal team maintained that he was a responsible gun owner with a legitimate interest in firearms.
