New York State police arrested a Middle Island man for drug possession afterlosing control of his car.
On February 28at approximately 1:45 p.m., New York State Troopers responded to reports of a gray Honda minivan in the center median of eastbound Sunrise Highway, just east of exit 64 in the Town of Southampton. Upon arrival, they interviewed the driver, identified as Ryan Dignam. The investigation determined that Dignam lost control of the vehicle, which came to rest in the center median.
During the interview, troopers observed what allegedly appeared to be marijuana in the front seat of the vehicle. A subsequent lawful search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of approximately 78 pounds of cannabis, approximately 86 pounds of concentrated cannabis, approximately seven grams of psilocybin mushrooms, digital scales and packaging materials, and approximately $12,000 in cash.
Dignam, 30, was charged with the following:
- Criminal Possession of Cannabis in the First Degree (a Class D Felony)
- Criminal Possession of Concentrated Cannabis in the First Degree (a Class D Felony)
- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree (a Class A-II Felony)
- Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia in the Second Degree (a Class A Misdemeanor)
Dignam was scheduled to be arraigned on March 1 in the Town of Southampton Justice Court.