POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – A routine traffic stop in the City of Poughkeepsie led to the arrest of three men after State Police discovered more than 40 grams of crack cocaine, authorities reported.
Traffic Stop Leads to Major Drug Bust
On Wednesday around 1:18 p.m., the New York State Police Troop K Community Stabilization Unit (CSU) conducted a traffic stop on a 2021 Jeep near Main Street for multiple traffic and vehicle violations.
The driver of the vehicle was identified as Julio C. Tejada, 41, of Manhattan. Accompanying him were Cedric Thomas, 59, also of Manhattan, and Robert Ravetti, 39, of Poughkeepsie.
Discovery of Crack Cocaine
Upon conducting a probable cause search, Troopers uncovered approximately 40.6 grams of crack cocaine inside the vehicle. The narcotics were packaged in a way consistent with street-level distribution, suggesting the men intended to sell the drugs in the community.
According to authorities, this quantity of crack cocaine has a high street value and posed a significant risk to public safety, particularly in areas already battling drug-related crime and addiction.
Felony Charges Filed
All three suspects were arrested and charged with:
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Criminal possession of a controlled substance (felony)
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Criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell (felony)
The severity of these charges reflects both the amount of narcotics seized and the clear intent to distribute.
Detention and Release Details
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Julio C. Tejada and Cedric Thomas were remanded to the Dutchess County Jail following their arraignment.
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Robert Ravetti, the Poughkeepsie resident, was released on his own recognizance pending further court proceedings.
Officials did not elaborate on why Ravetti was released, but legal experts note that recognizance releases can sometimes occur if the individual has local ties or no prior felony convictions.
Ongoing Investigation
The New York State Police emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with potential for further charges or additional arrests. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the suspects are linked to a broader drug trafficking operation.
The seizure comes amid increasing concerns about drug trafficking through the Hudson Valley, a region that has seen a rise in narcotic activity and overdoses in recent years.
Community Impact
Law enforcement agencies continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. Crack cocaine remains a dangerous substance with devastating effects on individuals and communities. Police credit proactive patrols and targeted enforcement like Wednesday’s traffic stop as key tools in fighting the spread of illegal drugs.
Residents with information related to the case or other suspected drug activity are encouraged to contact the New York State Police Troop K or their local authorities.
The arrests mark a significant step in ongoing efforts to curb narcotic distribution in the area, as law enforcement continues to target those trafficking dangerous substances through Dutchess County.
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