An argument over an unreturned engagement ring, and a gun police say was left at Dave & Buster’s are all what led to a Guilderland teacher’s arrest, according to court documents.

Akili-Abdul Duncan, 53, of Albany, is facing charges of criminal possession of a weapon in both Rensselaer and Guilderland.

The gun was found at the restaurant in Crossgates in 2021, but Duncan was just arrested on March 20.

Duncan did not have a New York state pistol permit, investigators said.

He was hired in August 2022 by Guilderland Central Schools, and is a teacher at Farnsworth Middle School. Duncan underwent a rigorous review process, which included a fingerprinting and background check, according to the superintendent. He is on administrative leave.

Duncan is also facing charges in Rensselaer Police for allegedly having a .380-caliber pistol during a domestic-related incident.

It happened on Dec. 2, 2024. Duncan had called police because he said his ex-fiancée was not returning the engagement ring after they broke up. Officers told him that he would have to go to civil court. He and the ex-fiancée were arguing and police asked if he had any weapons in the house. He said he had two shotguns in a safe. The ex said he also had a handgun, which he denied, according to court paperwork.

Duncan claimed that he was cleaned a gun for friend but gave it back. He declined a request to search his property, but said officers could search his car, documents stated. They returned with a warrant and did find the pistol as well as the two shotguns.

Duncan was charged with criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a firearm.

Rensselaer Police have not stated why Duncan was not arrested until March 21 – one day after the Guilderland arrest. Rensselaer and Guilderland Police have not commented further on the arrests.

Duncan is due back in Guilderland Town Court on Thursday, March 27 at 5:30 p.m. He is scheduled to appear in Rensselaer City Court on April 2.