Judge orders arrest of gun training center owner in Vermont

Gun Training Center Owner in Vermont Ordered for Arrest by Judge

In a recent development, a judge has issued an order for the arrest of the owner of a controversial firearms training center in Vermont. The owner, Daniel Banyai, must provide proof that certain portions of the sprawling 30-acre facility, known as Slate Ridge, have been either removed or demolished.

Slate Ridge encompasses multiple buildings and two firing ranges, spanning an area equivalent to 30 football fields (12 hectares). Due to complaints from neighboring residents, the town of Pawlet has been attempting, albeit unsuccessfully, for several years to compel Banyai to dismantle structures that he constructed without obtaining the necessary permits.

This latest order, issued by the Vermont Environmental Court, represents another attempt to hold Banyai accountable, as he has already accumulated fines exceeding $100,000 this year alone. The arrest, which can be carried out by a constable or county sheriff, is required to take place within the next 60 days.

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Efforts to reach Banyai for comment have been unsuccessful, and his lawyer has not yet responded to the request for comment. The lawyer representing Pawlet has declined to provide any statements regarding the order.

Slate Ridge’s neighbors have long expressed concerns about the frequent sound of gunfire and alleged threats and intimidation from Banyai and his supporters. Many residents are reluctant to speak publicly due to safety concerns.

Banyai described his property as a safe and environmentally friendly place for individuals to engage in firearms discharge, as well as offering lessons in first aid and various outdoor activities related to firearms. However, in 2019, the town issued a violation notice to Banyai for constructing multiple structures on the property without proper zoning approval. Subsequently, in March 2021, the Environmental Court directed Banyai to cease all firearms training at the center and remove any structures lacking permits.

Banyai’s appeal to the Vermont Supreme Court was rejected in January 2022.

In response to the situation at Slate Ridge, Vermont State Senator Philip Baruth, a Democrat and Progressive from Burlington, introduced legislation in the Legislature this year to ban paramilitary training centers within the state. The bill successfully passed and was signed into law by Republican Governor Phil Scott in May.

Violators of the law may face up to five years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $50,000, or both. It prohibits individuals from teaching, training, or demonstrating the use, application, or creation of firearms, explosives, or incendiary devices capable of causing harm or death, particularly in relation to civil disorder. Additionally, it prohibits assembling with others for such training, instruction, or practice.

Banyai purchased the property in 2013 and began operating what he referred to as a firearms training facility in 2017, despite the property being solely permitted for a garage with an attached apartment.

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• Judge orders arrest of gun training center owner in Vermont
• Vermont Environmental Court
• Slate Ridge firearms training facility
• Vermont paramilitary training ban
• Vermont State Senator Philip Baruth
• Governor Phil Scott