Following a five-month investigation into narcotics sales in the Town of Haverstraw, the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force has arrested Richard Fernandez, 40, of Pomona. The arrest comes after a court-authorized search warrant was executed on November 20, 2024, at Fernandez’s residence, resulting in the seizure of cocaine, fentanyl pills, and other pharmaceutical drugs.
Fernandez faces charges of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree and four counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree.
District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II emphasized the dangers of fentanyl, noting that just two milligrams can be lethal depending on a person’s body size. “Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, and its illegal distribution has significantly fueled the opioid epidemic, devastating families and communities nationwide,” Walsh stated. “Our office remains committed to supporting individuals struggling with substance abuse while holding traffickers of these deadly drugs accountable.”
The search and arrest were part of the Drug Task Force’s mission to combat narcotics trafficking in Rockland County. The operation was supported by the Haverstraw Police Department, Orangetown Police Department, Clarkstown Police Department, and the Rockland County REACT Team. The task force comprises Rockland County DA investigators, local law enforcement officers, and seasoned prosecutors.
Fernandez was arraigned on November 20, 2024, in Haverstraw Justice Court before Judge George G. Coffinas. The case is being prosecuted by Executive Assistant District Attorney Michael Dugandzic and Senior Assistant District Attorney John Longo.
