May 14, 2025
The vehicle occupants were identified as Julio C. Tejada, 41, and Michael Barnes, 45, both of New York, NY. With the assistance of K-9 Vinn, troopers received a positive alert for illegal narcotics, which led to a probable cause search of the vehicle.
The search led to the seizure of a significant quantity of illegal substances, including:
- 47 grams of crack cocaine
- 14.6 grams of powdered cocaine
- Approximately 180 glassine envelopes containing fentanyl
- 2.6 grams of fentanyl in pill form
As a result, Tejada and Barnes were arrested and charged with the following offenses:
- One count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 4th Degree – Class C Felony
- Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree – Class B Felony
- Three counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree with Intent to Sell – Class B Felony
- Three counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 7th Degree – Class A Misdemeanor
Both individuals were arraigned in the Town of East Fishkill Court and remanded to Dutchess County Jail without bail.
Contact Troop K Public Information Officer: Trooper Krystal P. Paolicelli
Troop K Commander:
Major Mark A. Nielson