POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — A routine traffic stop on July 30 led to the arrest of three men after authorities discovered over 40 grams of crack cocaine, according to the New York State Police.
At approximately 1:18 p.m., troopers from the State Police Troop K Community Stabilization Unit conducted a stop on a 2021 Jeep near Main Street for multiple traffic and vehicle law violations. During the stop, officers identified the driver as 41-year-old Julio C. Tejada of Manhattan.
Two passengers were also in the vehicle: Cedric Thomas, 59, also of Manhattan, and Robert Ravetti, 39, of Poughkeepsie.
A subsequent search of the vehicle—conducted based on probable cause—revealed approximately 40.6 grams of crack cocaine. Police reported that the narcotics were packaged in a manner consistent with drug distribution operations.
As a result, all three individuals were charged with:
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Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree (Class B felony)
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Criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell (also a Class B felony)
Following their arrests, Tejada and Thomas were remanded to Dutchess County Jail, where they remain in custody. Ravetti was released on his own recognizance pending further court proceedings.
A preliminary hearing for all three suspects is scheduled for Monday, August 5, at 9 a.m. in Dutchess County.
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