Local man charged after police investigate discovered handgun at Boonville-Oneida County Fair

BOONVILLE- A local man from Oneida County is accused of criminally possessing a firearm at this year’s Boonville-Oneida County Fair.

Last Wednesday, investigators from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Keith Ouderkirk, 42, of Lee Center, NY for one felony count of criminally possessing a firearm in a sensitive location.

It was on July 25 when police responded to a report of a handgun found on one of the rides at the fair. Upon arrival, it was learned that the handgun was found by an adult patron who was entering the ride.

The handgun was loaded at the time it was found but was safely turned over to law enforcement without any injuries.

Per their investigation, Deputies said that Ouderkirk, who had a valid New York State Pistol Permit, entered the fairgrounds despite signage that firearms and weapons were not allowed.

His handgun somehow fell out of his pocket while at the fair, police said.

Ouderkirk was issued with an appearance ticket, which is returnable to Boonville Town Court at a later date.

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