Bronx Man Arrested In Dutchess County After Police Chase

PAWLING, NY — A man from the Bronx was arrested in Dutchess County for drug possession after being pursued by State Police. Halil Cekaj, 23, of the Bronx, was charged with fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and first-degree reckless endangerment, felonies, and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, resisting arrest and third-degree fleeing an officer in a motor vehicle, misdemeanors, and unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation. There were also multiple vehicle and traffic law violations.

Police said that around 2:40 a.m. Jan. 24, Troopers tried to initiate a traffic stop of a Volkswagen Jetta on Route 22 in the Town of Pawling for a violation of the vehicle and traffic law.

When Troopers activated emergency lights, Cekaj sped up and led them on a pursuit until losing control and crashing in the Wassaic area of Amenia.

Police said Cekaj resisted arrest but was detained and placed in a State Police vehicle. Once inside, he began kicking and caused damage to the vehicle.

Cekaj was found to be in possession of about 2.4 grams of cocaine, a small amount of marijuana and a collapsible baton.

He was arraigned in the Town of Dover Court and sent to the Dutchess County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail or $100,000 bond.

Troopers were assisted at the scene by Dutchess County Sheriff’s Department Deputies.

Photo caption: Halil Cekaj. Photo credit: NYSP.