Here are some stories making headlines across the Hudson Valley.
Federal and county authorities have successfully dismantled a significant drug trafficking organization in Ulster County. Nine individuals have been apprehended, each facing charges related to the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine. Notably, law enforcement seized four kilograms of fentanyl, equivalent to a potentially 200,000 deadly doses. Additionally, five firearms were recovered.
Ishmael Benreuben, a resident of Mount Vernon, has entered a guilty plea in connection with a widespread check fraud operation. Federal court documents reveal that Benreuben and accomplices stole checks from the mail between November 2021 and March of the following year. Approximately $760,000 in fraudulent checks were deposited, and Benreuben was apprehended while hiding under a couch at a co-conspirator's residence.
The Green Haven Correctional Facility has officially lifted a lockdown that was initiated last week due to an escalation of violence within the facility. During the lockdown, officials discovered 76 weapons, made 21 suspected drug findings, uncovered 13 instances of homemade alcohol production, and seized various other forms of contraband, including a cellphone. There were reported 15 assaults on staff members during this period.