William Turri’s attorney entered a denial, akin to a not guilty plea, at his client’s arraignment.
Turri is accused of selling methamphetamine on three occasions, all sales “within the confines” of his campus at Stony Brook, the prosecutor said. The prosecutor said “in excess of 2 ounces” of methamphetamine was recovered.
Authorities said in addition to methamphetamine, ketamine and items used for drug sales were recovered in Turri’s dorm room.
According to court documents Turri “did possess a quantity of packaging which is consistent with the distribution of street level narcotics.”
Turri's charges were not bail eligible, but the judge did set supervised release with GPS monitoring.
Turri is from Fairport, New York.
Turri’s father was at his son’s arraignment. Turri’s lawyer, who said in court that his client has never been arrested and is studying economics with a 3.1 GPA, declined to talk to reporters following the arraignment. He told the judge that his client is taking the matter very seriously.
The prosecutor said the defendant could face three to 10 years behind bars if convicted.
Stony Brook University officials told News 12:
“We are aware of the arrest of a Stony Brook University student following a joint investigation with the Suffolk County Police Department that started after receipt of an anonymous Crimestoppers tip. Stony Brook University maintains strict policies regarding illegal activity and campus safety. As is standard practice, the University works closely with law enforcement partners when necessary. Due to the ongoing legal process, we cannot comment on the specifics of this case.”
The judge talked about the dangers of drugs and told Turri to keep his head up.
Turri is due back in court on May 19.