Albany Man Pleaded Guilty to Illegal Gun Sale
A 32-year-old man was convicted after selling two firearms for $4,000 to undercover state troopers.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Drug Crime
Bazeil Phoenix has pleaded guilty to the criminal sale of a gun in the third degree following an investigation in Albany. The defendant sold an ATI Omni Hybrid rifle and a loaded Glock 10mm handgun to undercover officers for $4,000.
Why it matters
The conviction follows a multi-agency investigation that highlights law enforcement efforts to curb the illegal sale of firearms in the region. Authorities also seized a significant quantity of cannabis during the subsequent arrest of the defendant.
Bazeil Phoenix pleaded guilty to criminal sale of a gun in the third degree and is scheduled for sentencing on Jan. 6, 2027. He faces up to five years in state prison and three years of post-release supervision.
The players
Bazeil Phoenix
The 32-year-old defendant who pleaded guilty to the illegal sale of firearms.
New York State Police
The law enforcement agency that led the investigation through its Special Investigations Unit and Troop G.
Albany Police Department
The municipal police agency that assisted in the investigation and arrest process.
The details
Phoenix sold the firearms to undercover troopers from the New York State Police Special Investigations Unit in December 2025. Upon his arrest in January 2026, officers from NYSP Troop G and the Albany Police Department discovered 16 pounds of cannabis at his Cohoes apartment.
Timeline
December 14, 2025: Phoenix sold the firearms to undercover troopers in Albany.
January 2026: Law enforcement officers arrested Phoenix at his Cohoes apartment.
January 6, 2027: The defendant is scheduled to appear for sentencing.
Legal Context
The guilty plea follows strict prosecution patterns established by New York Penal Law Section 265.11 regarding illegal firearm sales. This case reflects broader regional efforts by law enforcement to reduce the flow of illicit weapons into local communities.
The successful prosecution helps increase public safety by removing illegal firearms and large quantities of controlled substances from circulation. Residents can expect continued monitoring of illicit gun and drug markets by the Albany Police Department and State Police.
The takeaway
This case underscores the severe legal consequences for the illegal sale of firearms in New York state. Individuals should be aware that undercover operations remain a primary tool for law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting such criminal activity.
What happens next
Bazeil Phoenix is scheduled for sentencing on January 6, 2027.
Further reading
For additional context on local enforcement efforts, visit Drug Crime.
