What began as a simple case of illegal camping on state land in Dutchess County turned into a much more serious situation after a Forest Ranger discovered one of the campers was a wanted fugitive.
Incident in Wassaic, Dutchess County
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Forest Rangers – Week in Review, the arrest occurred on Monday, June 9, in the hamlet of Wassaic, located in Dutchess County. Forest Ranger Russo was conducting a routine patrol of the Wassaic Multiple Use Area when he came upon two individuals camping illegally.
The duo had set up camp less than 150 feet from a creek, which is a violation of DEC regulations. Additionally, they were found using a motorized vehicle on state land—another prohibited action in that area.
Routine Patrol Leads to Major Discovery
While speaking with the campers, Ranger Russo contacted dispatch to run a background check. That’s when the situation escalated. One of the campers was discovered to have two active bench warrants and a revoked driver’s license.
Bench warrants are typically issued when an individual fails to appear in court or comply with legal orders. These warrants empower law enforcement to arrest the person at any time, especially during routine interactions like this one.
Violation of Protection Order
To make matters worse, authorities determined that the wanted individual was also violating an active order of protection by being in contact with the second camper. These protection orders are issued by courts to keep individuals away from someone they may pose a threat to, and violating them can carry serious legal consequences.
Arrest and Legal Action
The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office quickly responded to the scene and took the suspect into custody without incident. The identity of the individual has not been made public due to the nature of the ongoing investigation and legal processes.
The second camper, who was not wanted by law enforcement, was allowed to move to a legal campsite in the area. However, they were still issued a ticket for illegal camping, as they had been set up too close to a waterway and in violation of state land use policies.
Ongoing Forest Ranger Enforcement
The DEC’s Forest Rangers routinely patrol state land to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Illegal camping, unauthorized vehicle use, and violations of conservation laws are among the many infractions they encounter on a regular basis.
This incident highlights how what might seem like a minor infraction can lead to significant legal consequences. It also underscores the importance of adhering to camping regulations, especially on state-managed land.
For those planning outdoor activities in the Hudson Valley and throughout New York, it’s crucial to understand and follow all DEC guidelines to avoid fines—or worse, arrest.
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