Authorities say undercover buys led to arrest and search of Winnikee Avenue home.
Poughkeepsie, NY – A suspected drug dealer was arrested in Poughkeepsie following an investigation that included multiple undercover purchases of crack cocaine on the city’s north side, authorities said.
Jermaine Thomas, 49, was taken into custody Wednesday at College Hill Park without incident after Drug Task Force agents tracked his alleged activity across several locations. Investigators said they had conducted repeated controlled buys from Thomas during the probe.
At the time of his arrest, Thomas was allegedly in possession of multiple bags of crack cocaine packaged for sale, along with scales, packaging materials, and cash.
Search warrant yields additional evidence
Following the arrest, agents executed a search warrant at Thomas’s residence on Winnikee Avenue with assistance from the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office and City of Poughkeepsie Police.
Authorities reported recovering additional evidence tied to narcotics distribution inside the home.
Key Points
- Suspect arrested after multiple undercover crack cocaine purchases
- Drugs, scales, and cash recovered at time of arrest in College Hill Park
- Search of Winnikee Avenue home uncovered additional evidence
Felony charges filed, more possible
Thomas has been charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a class B felony, and fourth-degree possession, a class C felony. Officials said additional charges are pending as the investigation continues.
He was arraigned in City of Poughkeepsie Court and remanded to the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center.
“This arrest is the result of diligent investigative work and strong collaboration among our law enforcement partners,” said District Attorney Anthony P. Parisi. “The illegal distribution of crack cocaine poses a serious threat to public safety and quality of life in our neighborhoods. My office remains committed to aggressively prosecuting those who profit from the sale of dangerous drugs and to supporting efforts that make our communities safer.”