According to a press release issued by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, on October 14, 2021 Forest Rangers Hettenbaugh and Thaine patrolled the Gas Springs State Forest in the town of Birdsall, Allegany County in search of previously identified marijuana plants.
According to their report, While approaching the site, Ranger Hettenbaugh noticed some of the plants were removed and heard someone running through the woods. The Ranger said he chased after the subject.
After Hettenbaugh apprehended the suspect, Ranger Thaine took custody of him and Hettenbaugh pursued and caught a second suspect, they said.
The Rangers made arrests for violations on State Lands and contacted New York State Police, which handled the public health and penal law charges. State Police seized the plants for evidence.
Photo: Forest Ranger in dark wooded area holding large black garbage bag with marijuana plant inside provided by DEC.
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