Troop F Community Stabilization Unit Arrest Howard Beach Man on Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop

On April 13, 2025, at approximately 4:23 a.m., members of the Troop F Community Stabilization Unit (CSU) observed a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling westbound on State Route 17 in the town of Mamakating, in violation of New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law. Troopers initiated a traffic stop and interviewed the operator and sole occupant, identified as Rafael A. Dejesus, age 67, of Howard Beach, NY.

A subsequent exterior search of the vehicle, assisted by K9 Wink, resulted in a positive alert for narcotics. Troopers then conducted a more thorough search of the vehicle, uncovering over 3,300 grams of Fentanyl.

During the investigation, Dejesus was placed under arrest and became unresponsive due to medical issues. EMS responded to the scene, and he was transported to Garnet Health Medical Center for evaluation. Dejesus was later discharged from the hospital and transported to State Police Wurtsboro for criminal processing.

Dejesus was charged with the following:

•  Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, a Class A-1 Felony

Dejesus was arraigned in Mamakating Town Court on April 13, 2025, and remanded to the Sullivan County Jail without bail, where he will await future court proceedings.