Albany Man Accused Of Having Stolen Handgun, Illegal Drugs

NEWBURGH, NY — A traffic stop on the Thruway led to accusations of illegal drug possession and a stolen handgun.

The New York State Police said, around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, troopers stopped a car on Interstate 87 in the town of Newburgh for multiple vehicle and traffic violations.

While speaking with the driver, probable cause was established to search the vehicle, police said.

The driver — Jimmie R. Merritt Jr., 38, of Albany —was found to have more than 31 grams of cocaine, according to the troopers.

Merritt also had a Smith and Wesson M&P pistol that was loaded with seven rounds of .40 caliber ammunition, along with additional bullets found inside a bag, police said.

The handgun was found to be stolen, according to the Lamar County Sheriff's Office in Barnesville, Georgia.

Merritt was arrested and taken to the Newburgh barracks where he was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon - loaded firearm other than in a person's home or business, criminal possession of a firearm and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property - firearm, all felonies.

He was virtually arraigned in the City of Newburgh Court and sent to the Orange County Jail in lieu of $15,000 bail or $30,000 bond.