Hidden compartment bust leads to major drug seizure on I-684 in Westchester
LEWISBORO, NY — A routine traffic stop uncovered a hidden stash of narcotics after investigators discovered a secret compartment packed with cocaine, crack and fentanyl inside a vehicle on a Westchester highway, officials said.
The stop happened around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday on northbound Interstate 684, where members of the New York State Police Troop K Community Stabilization Unit pulled over a vehicle for traffic violations.
The driver was identified as John Williams, 36, of the Bronx, while the front-seat passenger was Jorge L. Centeno, 48, of Brooklyn.
During the investigation, troopers conducted a consent search of the vehicle and uncovered an aftermarket electronically operated hidden compartment — a tactic often used to conceal illegal drugs.
A K-9 unit, Vinn, performed an exterior scan and alerted to the presence of narcotics, prompting a deeper search.
Inside the hidden compartment, authorities said they discovered approximately 2 kilograms of cocaine, multiple individually packaged quantities of crack cocaine and about 28 grams of fentanyl.
Both men were taken into custody and hit with a series of serious felony charges, including first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, one of the most severe drug charges under New York law.
They also face additional counts related to possession with intent to sell.
Williams and Centeno were arraigned in North Castle Court and ordered held at the Westchester County Jail.
Key Points
- Traffic stop on I-684 led to discovery of hidden drug compartment
- Police seized cocaine, crack and fentanyl from the vehicle
- Two New York City men arrested and facing major felony charges