Au Sable Forks Sex Offender Archer Caged for Gun Stash

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – James L. Archer, Sr., 52, of Au Sable Forks, New York, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced today to 46 months for being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and a massive ammunition hoard. The case underscores the relentless pursuit of those who illegally arm themselves despite a criminal history.

Federal authorities descended on Archer’s Ausable Forks residence on August 22, 2016, executing a search warrant that turned up a disturbing cache: eight firearms and approximately 1,757 rounds of ammunition stashed on the property. The raid was a joint operation spearheaded by the United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department.

Archer’s prior convictions – felony sex abuse – explicitly barred him from legally owning any firearms or ammunition. Despite this prohibition, he amassed a substantial arsenal, raising serious questions about public safety and his disregard for the law. The investigation revealed a clear pattern of illegal weapon storage.

The announcement of the sentencing came from United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian, United States Marshal David McNulty of the Northern District of New York, Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s New York Field Office, and Clinton County Sheriff David Favro, signaling a unified front against gun crime. The collaborative effort demonstrates a commitment to removing dangerous individuals and weapons from the community.

Senior United States District Judge Norman A. Mordue didn’t stop at the 46-month prison sentence. Archer will also serve a three-year term of post-imprisonment supervised release, ensuring continued monitoring after his release. This adds an extra layer of accountability and attempts to prevent recidivism.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Collyer successfully prosecuted the case, built on the investigative work of the US Marshals, ATF agents, and Clinton County Sheriff’s deputies. The case serves as a stark reminder that possessing firearms with a felony conviction carries severe consequences, and authorities will aggressively pursue such violations. This conviction sends a message: illegally possessing weapons will not be tolerated.