RENSSELAER, NY — The New York State Police Special Investigations Unit in Binghamton arrested two individuals on felony drug charges following an eight-month investigation.
The investigation was conducted by members of the New York State Police Special Investigations Unit in Binghamton, with assistance from uniform and investigative members assigned to Troops G and C, and in coordination with the Albany County District Attorney’s Office.
On Jan. 23, 2026, investigators executed multiple search warrants at locations in Rensselaer and Greene counties.
As a result of the searches, State Police seized drug paraphernalia, including packaging materials and scales, United States currency, and approximately five ounces of cocaine.
Nathan M. Ensel, 45, of Rensselaer, an Albany Police officer, and Leocadio J. Espinal, 46, of Astoria, were arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the second degree, possession of a narcotic with an aggregate weight exceeding four ounces, an A II felony.
They were also charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, possession of a narcotic with intent to sell, a B felony.
Both face two counts of criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, an A misdemeanor.
Ensel and Espinal were arraigned in the City of Rensselaer Court and remanded to the Rensselaer County Jail.
The investigation remains ongoing.
