Multiple suspects arrested, illegal handgun, Fentanyl and Crack Cocaine Seized
The Dutchess County Drug Task Force reports making multiple arrests and seizing dangerous drugs and an illegal
handgun after search warrants were executed in the City and Town of Poughkeepsie.
The Dutchess County Drug Task Force has been actively investigating the sale of fentanyl and crack cocaine in the
Dutchess County area. As a result of this investigation two search warrants were executed by the Dutchess County Drug
Task Force with the assistance of the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services Unit. During the execution of
the warrants on 07/18/2023 a loaded illegal handgun was seized as well as a large quantity of Fentanyl and Crack
Cocaine. The following individuals who reside in the City of Poughkeepsie were arrested as a result of the search
warrants executed by the Drug Task Force;
1. Phillip Stephens – Criminal Possession of Weapon – Loaded Firearm, a class C Felony offense.
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree, a class B Felony
2. William Moore – Felony warrant held by the New York State Police
3. Marisol Rivera – Felony warrant held by the City of Poughkeepsie Police
4. Michelle Butler – Felony warrant held by the New York State Police
Phillip Stephens is being held by the Drug Task Force pending his arrangement in City Court later this morning. All other
suspects were turned over to the agencies that held the warrants of arrest.
The Drug Task Force was assisted by the City of Poughkeepsie NRU and NYSP. If anyone has information regarding this
case or about any other individuals selling drugs in Dutchess County, you are urged to contact the Drug Task Force
confidential tip line at 845-463-6040 or by sending an email to the following web address:
DrugTaskForceTips@gmail.com As with any criminal case, the charges described above are merely an accusation and
James R. Scott is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
