NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Army veteran arrested Tuesday following the discovery of three loaded guns, including two military-style rifles and nearly 400 rounds of ammunition, is awaiting transfer to a Western New York VA hospital.
36-year-old Timothy Payne was in North Tonawanda City Court Friday morning for second degree charge of criminal possession of a weapon, Payne's lawyer Robert Singer tells 7 Eyewitness News the case is in the process of being transferred to Niagara County Veterans Court.
Singer says the plan right now is to get Payne into a VA hospital in Western New York so he can get help, he is hopeful that could happen by the end of Friday. He remains in jail until then.
Timothy's father, Doglas Payne, spoke to 7EWN earlier this week and says his son has been suffering from PTSD and other mental issues since he lost his legs in combat.
"Whatever triggered him to go off the end is a mystery to me," said Doglas. "His behaviors were getting a little...difficult."
"He needs help" he said. "I'm glad he's getting it."
North Tonawanda Police released a statement Wednesday night: "there was nothing found that would indicate that he was in the planning stages of any type of event."
The North Tonawanda Police Department will be working closely with the Niagara County District Attorney’s office to resolve this case in the most appropriate manner that takes into consideration the needs of Mr. Payne who served his country honorably and was severely injured during his service, both physically and emotionally."
