CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE -
A Coast Guardsman from Training Center Cape May is facing multiple weapons charges after he allegedly stole from the base.
Petty Officer First Class Preston Blair
was arrested Friday after an on-going investigation and raid of his home, car,
and storage unit revealed assault weapons and high capacity magazines according to the county prosecutor.
"This investigation commenced after special agents from
the Coast guard investigative service found evidence that Petty Officer First Class Preston Blair allegedly found or stole a number of large capacity or high
capacity magazines from training center cape may," Coast Guard C.W.O Donnie Brzuska said.
Blair is a Company Commander at Training Center Cape May
where he instructs new recruits.
We knocked on Blair's door Monday afternoon, but we got no
answer. Later on we received a phone call saying he did not want to
comment on the charges. Neighbors and friends say the allegations are shocking.
"I never would have expected it. He's a good
guy. You can definitely ask him anything you want and he will tell you all about
it," Neighbor Nathan Reynolds said.
Blair now faces charges of possession of an assault weapon
and possession of large capacity ammunition magazines. According to the county
prosecutor, if convicted, Blair could face up to 10 years in prison.
"The Coast Guard is going to work closely with the Cape May County Prosecutors Office to determine a final disposition in this case
regarding military and civilian charges.
The Coast Guard says Blair is innocent until proven guilty and as of now
he will no longer be training new recruits pending the out come of the
investigation. Officials say he will be reassigned to general duties around the
base.
