SOUTHEAST, NY — A Connecticut man faces felony drug charges following a traffic stop in Putnam County.
Paul A. Cancellaro, 53, of New Fairfield, Connecticut, was arrested March 31, 2026, after deputies discovered cocaine and other controlled substances during a traffic stop, according to Sheriff Brian Hess.
Deputy Trupia initiated the stop after observing a vehicle with equipment violations and an expired inspection.
During the investigation, Deputies Trupia and O’Connor discovered more than one-half ounce of cocaine and additional controlled substances concealed on Cancellaro’s person.
Deputies also recovered drug paraphernalia consistent with intent to distribute.
Cancellaro was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 3rd degree (intent to sell), a class B felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 3rd degree, a class B felony; two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 7th degree, a class A misdemeanor; criminal use of drug paraphernalia in the 2nd degree, a class A misdemeanor; and display forged certificate without inspection, a misdemeanor.
He was arraigned in the Town of Southeast Court and remanded to the Putnam County Correctional Facility.
