State police arrest two after eight month felony drug investigation concludes

Albany, New York – After an investigation that stretched quietly over eight months, New York State Police have arrested two men on serious felony drug charges, bringing a long-running probe to a decisive close.

The arrests were carried out by the New York State Police Special Investigations Unit based in Binghamton, which led the case from its earliest stages. The inquiry unfolded with support from uniformed and investigative members assigned to Troops G and C, and was closely coordinated with the Albany County District Attorney’s Office. Authorities say the length of the investigation reflects both the complexity of the case and the amount of evidence gathered before making any arrests.

The operation reached a turning point on January 23, 2026. On that day, investigators executed multiple search warrants at several locations across Rensselaer and Greene counties. During those searches, State Police reported seizing a range of items commonly linked to narcotics distribution. These included drug paraphernalia such as packaging materials and scales, a quantity of United States currency, and approximately five ounces of cocaine.

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Following the searches and review of the evidence, two individuals were taken into custody. The suspects were identified as Nathan M. Ensel, age 45, of Rensselaer, and Leocadio J. Espinal, age 46, of Astoria. Ensel is an Albany Police officer, a detail that adds a sensitive dimension to the case and underscores the seriousness with which investigators approached the matter.

Both men now face multiple felony and misdemeanor charges connected to the alleged possession and handling of narcotics. According to State Police, the charges include Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree, which involves possession of a narcotic with an aggregate weight exceeding four ounces and is classified as an A II felony. They are also charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, which alleges possession of a narcotic with intent to sell and is a B felony.

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In addition to the felony counts, Ensel and Espinal are each charged with two counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree, an A misdemeanor. Investigators say these charges stem from the equipment and materials recovered during the searches.

After their arrests, both men were arraigned in the City of Rensselaer Court. The court ordered that Ensel and Espinal be remanded to the Rensselaer County Jail as the case moves forward through the legal system.

State Police have not released further details about the investigation, citing the ongoing nature of the case. However, officials emphasized that the arrests reflect a coordinated effort across multiple units and agencies, and highlight the continued focus on disrupting the distribution of illegal narcotics across the region.