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State Police troopers attempted to initiate a traffic stop of Bronx resident Halil Cekaj, 23, at approximately 2:40 a.m. on Wednesday morning in the Wassaic area of Amenia after he committed a vehicle and traffic law violation.
Police said that once troopers activated their emergency lights, Cekaj increased his speed, taking the troopers on a lengthy pursuit before losing control and crashing on Route 22. Once he was taken into custody, police said that Cekaj began kicking and causing a commotion, damaging a police squad car.
Further investigation into the chase and crash found that Cekaj was also in possession of 2.4 grams of cocaine, a small amount of marijuana and a collapsible baton, leading to additional charges.
Cekaj was arrested and charged with felony counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, reckless endangerment and criminal mischief. He was also charged with criminal possession of a weapon, fleeing an officer in a motor vehicle and resisting arrest, all misdemeanors. Additionally, he was cited for unlawful possession of marijuana and multiple vehicle and traffic law violations.
Following arraignment, Cekaj was remanded to the Dutchess County Jail in lieu of $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond. He is due back in court later this year to answer the charges.
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