WASSAIC, NY — What began as a routine check for illegal camping on New York State land turned into a significant arrest after a wanted individual was found in violation of multiple laws in Dutchess County.
The incident occurred on Monday, June 9, at the Wassaic Multiple Use Area, a piece of public land managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Illegal Camping Uncovers More Serious Violations
Forest Ranger Russo, while patrolling the Wassaic area, discovered two campers illegally set up within 150 feet of a creek, a violation of state land use rules. The pair were also found to be using a motorized vehicle, another infraction on DEC-managed land.
Upon further investigation and coordination with dispatch, Ranger Russo learned that one of the campers had two active bench warrants and a revoked driver’s license. Bench warrants are typically issued for failing to appear in court or ignoring a court order, making the individual subject to immediate arrest.
Violating an Order of Protection
To complicate matters further, the wanted individual was found to be in violation of an active order of protection, which prohibited any contact with the second camper at the site. According to the DEC’s report, the individual’s presence with the protected party constituted a direct violation of that court-issued order.
Arrest and Charges
The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and promptly took the suspect into custody. Their name has not been released at this time. The other camper, who was not wanted or in violation of any court orders, relocated to a legal camping location and was issued a ticket for illegal camping.
Forest Rangers’ Broader Role
The arrest is part of the New York State DEC Forest Rangers’ ongoing efforts to enforce environmental laws and ensure public safety on state lands. Rangers frequently encounter various violations during their routine patrols, from illegal fires and camping to more serious offenses like this one.
The case highlights the importance of routine environmental patrols, which can uncover unrelated but serious criminal activity that may otherwise go unnoticed.
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