A Purple Heart recipient who has openly discussed his struggles with PTSD will now be transferred to a VA facility after his arrest Tuesday.
Timothy Payne was at North Tonawanda City Hall that day discussing veterans issues.
He was arrested after police say they found a loaded pistol, two loaded military-style rifles and about 400 rounds of ammunition in his van parked outside.
They had initially thought he had a bomb, but after the bomb squad's investigation it turned out to be a hitch lock.
Authorities say no explosives were found, there were no bomb-making components and no threats were made.
Payne is charged with criminal possession of a weapon, which is a violent felony.
The Niagara County district attorney said Payne's preliminary hearing in North Tonawanda City Court Friday was waived. The case now goes to Niagara County Court.
The DA says Payne is still in custody on $75,000 bail unless he is transferred directly to the VA for evaluation and treatment.