In a startling turn of events, a Florida man was arrested on an Amtrak train carrying an arsenal of weapons, posing a significant risk to public safety.
At a Glance
- Jeffrey O. Kennerk was arrested for possessing an arsenal on an Amtrak train.
- The weapons included assault rifles, handguns, and a booby-trapped firearm.
- Kennerk faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault.
- Law enforcement’s prompt actions averted a potential disaster.
Details of the Arrest
Jeffrey O. Kennerk, 34, of Fort Lauderdale, was found aboard an Amtrak train with a significant cache of weapons. He carried ammunition, multiple handguns, assault rifles, and booby-trapped weapons. Kennerk initially boarded the train in New Jersey, concealing weapons like an AR-15-style rifle and multiple ammunition magazines, raising alarms due to the sheer arsenal he possessed.
Kennerk’s situation first drew attention when New Jersey Transit Police discovered an unattended zebra-patterned suitcase at Newark Penn Station. The bag contained a loaded handgun and more ammunition, while a secondary compartment held a loaded AK-47-style rifle. Surveillance footage captured Kennerk leaving this suitcase, highlighting his reckless disregard for public safety.
The Train and Arrest
Kennerk was intercepted in Trenton while traveling on the Amtrak train. Law enforcement arrested him before he could board another train. During the arrest, officers found him carrying additional weapons, including an AR-15-style rifle. These weapons, combined with his earlier arsenal, emphasized the potential threat posed to passengers.
“This defendant allegedly hauled a small arsenal of deadly weapons and ammunition through busy transit stations, and on a train filled with passengers. He allegedly left a suitcase containing assorted weapons and ammunition – including an assault rifle – in the concourse of Newark Penn Station, where anyone could have been harmed by them. If not for the outstanding police work done in this matter, we can only imagine where this defendant and these weapons would have ended up.” – Matthew Platkin.
The arrest uncovered more weapons, including silencers and hollow-point ammunition. A further issue arose when a firearm discharged within a suitcase without officer engagement, showing it was booby-trapped. These dangerous circumstances further stressed the severity of Kennerk’s actions.
Legal and Safety Implications
Kennerk now faces various charges, such as possession of weapons for unlawful purposes, unlawful possession of firearms, aggravated assault, and holding large-capacity magazines. Deputy Attorney General Karen Bracizewsk is expected to prosecute him. This ordeal illustrates the hazards posed by individuals illegally amassing weapons.
“New Jersey’s Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin stated that Kennerk allegedly transported these deadly weapons through busy transit stations and onto a train filled with passengers.” – Matthew J. Platkin.
This case underscores the importance of law enforcement in preventing possible disasters. Through their swift actions, officers potentially saved many lives. New Jersey Transit Police commend this arrest, emphasizing diligence and commitment to public safety. Such wake-up calls remind communities of the necessity to stay vigilant and alert.
