State Police arrest Elmira man after responding to a reported disturbance at a Southport residence

Elmira, New York – New York State Police arrested an Elmira man Friday afternoon after responding to a reported disturbance at a home in Chemung County that left a resident fearing for their safety.

According to state police, troopers took Christopher A. Decker, 43, of Elmira, into custody following an incident that unfolded on Universal Avenue in the town of Southport. The response came at approximately 2:57 p.m. on January 24, 2026, after authorities received a call reporting a disturbance inside a private residence.

When troopers arrived at the scene, they made contact with an adult resident of the home who described a tense and alarming situation. The resident reported that Decker was inside the house creating a disturbance and was allegedly in possession of a stun gun. Investigators said the complainant told troopers that the device was repeatedly activated and waved nearby, behavior that caused the resident to fear for their personal safety.

Read also: DEC confirms red substance spotted in the Genesee River in downtown Rochester was diesel fuel from delivery error

State police conducted an on-scene investigation and located Decker inside the residence. Troopers were able to secure a conducted electrical weapon, commonly known as a stun gun, which was collected as evidence. Authorities reported that Decker was taken into custody without incident and no injuries were reported during the response.

Following his arrest, Decker was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree, a D felony, as well as Menacing in the second degree, an A misdemeanor. These charges stem from the alleged possession and use of the stun gun during the disturbance and the fear it reportedly caused to another individual in the home.

After being taken into custody, Decker was transported to SP Wellsburg for processing. He was later arraigned in the Town of Southport Court. According to police, the court released Decker on his own recognizance, allowing him to remain free while the case proceeds through the legal system.

Read also: Nassau County detective faces federal charges after alleged attempt to sexually exploit a child through online communications

As part of the court’s order, Decker was directed to return for a future court appearance scheduled for February 12, 2026. No additional conditions of release were announced at the time of arraignment.

The investigation highlights the role of state police in responding quickly to domestic disturbances, particularly those involving weapons that can pose a risk to occupants inside a home. Authorities did not release further details about the circumstances leading up to the disturbance or the relationship between the individuals involved.

The case remains pending in the Town of Southport Court, and all charges are allegations. Decker is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.