Chateaugay, N.Y. – U.S. Border Patrol agents—with the assistance of New York State Police—arrested three U.S. citizens involved in transporting 60.36 pounds of marijuana near Chateaugay, NY.
On Thursday, March 7, U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to Burke Border Patrol Station attempted to perform a vehicle stop on a suspect vehicle traveling eastbound on Rt. 11 in Chateaugay. After activating their emergency lights, the Border Patrol vehicle was intentionally struck by a second vehicle that was driving in tandem with the initial suspect vehicle. The second suspect vehicle came to a stop while the initial vehicle fled the scene. New York State Police was advised of the situation, responded and were able to locate of the suspect vehicle. A New York State Police Trooper and canine unit apprehended the fleeing suspect near Ellenburg Center, NY. Clinton County Sheriffs also assisted in taking the suspects into custody.
"I am proud of the vigilance shown by these Border Patrol agents and impressed by the rapid response of the New York State Police,” said Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge Michael Estrella. “Without their help, a smuggler may have escaped with his contraband.”
After initial processing by the U.S. Border Patrol, the three individual were turned over to the New York State Police. The driver of the fleeing vehicle was charged with felony possession of Marijuana, while the driver of the second vehicle faces multiple pending criminal charges including; Reckless Endangerment of Property, Criminal Mischief, and Reckless Endangerment. Additional charges may be added in the future.
The Swanton Sector is responsible for securing the land border between ports of entry in Vermont, New Hampshire and northeastern New York. The coordination with assistance of citizens is invaluable to the Border Patrol's border security mission and we welcome community members' help to keep our nation’s borders safe. Please report suspicious activity at 1-800-689-3362.
Original Posting at Customs and Border Protection CBP website.