Sheriff Donald B. Smith reports the successful implementation of “roving safety checks” across Putnam County.

On January 23 and 24, 2010, Sheriff’s Deputies conducted traffic checkpoints in the Towns of Southeast, Patterson, Philipstown and Putnam Valley in areas deemed to be “high complaint areas”. The primary purpose of the checkpoints was to enforce the use of safety belts and to detect the presence of uninspected motor vehicles. As a result of the checkpoints, 45 uniform traffic tickets were issued to motorists countywide for seat belt, inspection, registration and equipment violations.

One arrest was made as a result of the checkpoints. Thales Magnoli, 35, of 8 Fowler Avenue, Carmel, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the Third Degree, a misdemeanor. The defendant was released in his own recognizance pending a February 2, 2010 appearance in the Town of Putnam Valley Justice Court to answer the charge. If found guilty of the misdemeanor charge, the defendant faces up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.00.