Poughkeepsie man arrested on fentanyl charges twice in five days

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) reported the arrest of a Poughkeepsie man in an ongoing drug investigation. Leonardo De La Cruz, 25, is facing multiple charges.

On October 3, the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force arrested three people following raids on Main Street in Poughkeepsie in connection to drug sales in the area. Among the arrestees was De La Cruz, who was released after his arraignment.

Following the raids on Thursday, law enforcement received reports of someone selling narcotics behind buildings near 453 Main Street. Further investigation resulted in De La Cruz being identified as the suspect.

According to the DCSO, the Task Force conducted an operation in which undercover agents bought drugs from De La Cruz, ultimately resulting in his arrest on October 7. At the time of his arrest, he was reportedly found with packaged fentanyl and crack cocaine. De La Cruz now faces the following charges:

• Third-degree criminal possession of controlled substance - intent to sell
• Fifth-degree criminal possession of controlled substance

De La Cruz was arraigned at the City of Poughkeepsie Court. He was then remanded to the Dutchess County Jail on $75,000 cash bail, $150,000 secured bond, or $250,000 partially secured bond.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Drug Task Force by calling (845)463-6040 or emailing DrugTaskForceTips@gmail.com.