NEWTON, NJ — A Sparta man was arrested following an investigation into a report that a firearm was brandished in a parking lot last summer.
The Newton Police Department received a report on April 14 that a firearm had been brandished in a parking lot within the town around July 2025.
Patrolman Donald Wagner and Detective Peter Vex concluded the investigation on April 17.
Scott Vilardo, 20, of Sparta, was positively identified and taken into custody.
During a lawful search, officers recovered an air pistol from Vilardo’s vehicle that was substantially similar in appearance to a striker-fired Glock handgun.
Vilardo was charged with aggravated assault by brandishing and pointing a firearm, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
Police said imitation firearms have become increasingly realistic in appearance.
Advances in technology, including 3D printing, along with the growing popularity of products such as airsoft replicas, have led to imitation firearms that closely resemble actual weapons, according to police.
In some cases, these products are manufactured under license from legitimate firearms companies due to their high level of detail.
Often, the only distinguishing feature is an orange tip, which may be removed, obscured or not readily visible, police said.
