Vermont owner of now-defunct firearms training center is arrested
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Vermont Firearms Training Center Owner Arrested After Facility Shuts Down

In Pawlet, Vermont, a significant event unfolded as the owner of a firearms training center, which has sparked controversy, was arrested after a confrontation. This incident occurred on a Wednesday, as announced by the state police.

The arrest took place near the border between Vermont and New York. Daniel Banyai, the center’s owner, was encountered by the Pawlet town constable at an intersection in the afternoon. During the encounter, a struggle ensued, but the constable managed to subdue Banyai and take him into custody.

The legal issues surrounding Banyai stem from a December ruling by a Vermont Environmental Court Judge. The judge found Banyai in contempt of court for not removing all unpermitted structures from his property. This property, known as Slate Ridge, spans an area equivalent to 30 football fields and features multiple buildings and two firing ranges. The town had been trying for years to have these structures removed, following complaints from neighbors.

The situation escalated three years ago when the Environmental Court demanded that Banyai cease all firearms training at the center and dismantle the unpermitted structures. Banyai’s appeal to the Vermont Supreme Court was subsequently rejected.

In February 2023, a judge issued a stern order, declaring Banyai in contempt of court for ignoring multiple court orders since the case began. He was facing potential jail time and fines exceeding $100,000 if he did not comply by June 23.

A judge ordered Banyai’s arrest in July, stating he must remain in custody until he could prove that parts of the facility had been removed or demolished. However, the warrant expired after 60 days without an arrest being made. In early December, a new arrest warrant was issued, giving Banyai until December 22 to surrender. His attorney did not respond to requests for comment on the day of the arrest.

In response to the situation at Slate Ridge, the Vermont Legislature passed a bill making it illegal to own or operate paramilitary training camps in the state. This bill was signed into law by Republican Governor Phil Scott in May.