RUTLAND, NY — State Police responded to a residence on State Route 3 on May 25, 2026, at approximately 10:32 a.m. for a report involving an individual experiencing a mental health crisis.
Troopers made contact with Joshua L. Stephens, 33, of Black River, outside the residence.
During the investigation, Troopers learned Stephens allegedly possessed a suspected improvised explosive device inside the residence.
Troopers subsequently located what appeared to be a suspected pipe bomb on a kitchen table inside the home.
The residence was evacuated, and the New York State Police Bomb Disposal Unit responded to the scene.
The device was safely disassembled by the Bomb Disposal Unit and secured as evidence.
Stephens was arrested and charged with attempted criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a class E felony.
Stephens was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Jefferson County CAP Court on June 14, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
He was transported to Samaritan Medical Center for evaluation.
