Two men arrested after Troopers discover fentanyl and crack cocaine during traffic stop

Rockland County, New York – On the evening of February 28, 2025, a routine traffic stop on the New York State Thruway in Rockland County led to the arrest of two men and the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics. Troopers from Troop T, SP Tarrytown, were participating in the Rockland County Violent Crime Suppression Detail when they pulled over a 2019 Honda Pilot for a traffic violation in the Town of Ramapo at approximately 8:26 p.m.

The driver was identified as Robert Morales, 57, of Rensselaer, and the passenger as Irving Prado, 51, of the Bronx. During the stop, K-9 Odin was deployed and alerted officers to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A subsequent search uncovered approximately 48.5 grams of fentanyl and 56 grams of crack cocaine.

Both Morales and Prado were arrested and charged with two counts each under New York State Penal Law section 220.16, subsections 1 and 12, which pertain to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree with intent to sell and possession of a narcotic drug weighing half an ounce or more. These charges are classified as Class B felonies.

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Following their arrest, the suspects were arraigned before Judge Michael Bongiorno in Clarkstown Town Court and remanded to the Rockland County Jail. They are scheduled to reappear in Ramapo Town Court on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

This incident underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies in Rockland County to combat drug trafficking and related crimes. The Rockland County Drug Task Force, overseen by the District Attorney’s office, collaborates with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in the trafficking of controlled substances. Their combined efforts aim to make Rockland County a safer place to live and work.

The seized substances, fentanyl and crack cocaine, are among the most prevalent street drugs in Rockland County. Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has been linked to a surge in overdose deaths nationwide. In a recent case, a Rockland County man was charged with distributing fentanyl that resulted in six overdoses, including multiple deaths.

The successful interception of these narcotics highlights the importance of routine traffic stops and the vigilance of law enforcement officers in identifying and preventing drug-related activities. The collaboration between various agencies and the use of specialized units, such as K-9 teams, play a crucial role in these efforts.

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As the case against Morales and Prado proceeds, it serves as a reminder of the legal consequences associated with drug trafficking. Under New York State law, criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree carries severe penalties, reflecting the seriousness with which these offenses are treated.

The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement agencies. Public cooperation is essential in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking and in ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.

In conclusion, the events of February 28, 2025, demonstrate the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts in addressing drug-related crimes. The arrests of Morales and Prado not only remove dangerous substances from the streets but also send a clear message about the commitment to uphold the law and protect the community.