A former Old Westbury student was arrested on campus for criminal possession of a firearm. University Police say the arrest occurred on February 1st following a traffic stop for excessive speeding and failing to stop at a stop sign. 

The suspect was identified through public court records as 22-year old Amir Leveque.

Charges against Leveque included criminal possession of a weapon with the intent to use, a misdemeanor, criminal possession of a weapon on school grounds, and criminal possession of a loaded firearm, both felonies, according to court documents.

University Police Chief Steven Siena said officers attempted to stop a vehicle for excessive speeding and failing to stop at a stop sign. The accused allegedly stopped in the middle of the road and attempted to exit the vehicle. He ultimately returned to the vehicle after receiving several verbal commands to do so.

Leveque’s most recent affiliation to the school was in 2020, according to Chief Siena. Police said he was the only occupant of the vehicle. He claimed to be on his way to visit a friend. 

Chief Siena said a large knife was observed through the vehicle’s window, leading officers to, “check further.” Upon conducting a search, officers discovered a loaded firearm. Siena added that Leveque was transferred to the Nassau County Police Department. 

Siena praised his entire team and particularly the officer on the scene, stating, “the knowledge and training of the officer, in addition to his calmness and professionalism, averted what had the potential to result in a very different and tragic outcome.”