Michael Rodriguez, the 49-year-old Executive Director of Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence, was arrested in his Yonkers home on gun and drug charges.
According to District Attorney David Hoovler, authorities apprehended Rodriguez with large cache of contraband. This includes: 1 1/2 kilos of cocaine, three pistols, and a shotgun, alongside a whopping $165,000 in cash, $50,000 worth of jewelry, and drug paraphernalia. Ironically, Rodriguez operated an organization charged with stopping gun violence in New York City.
The very guy that we have that is supposed to be stopping gun violence in one jurisdiction in New York City, is poisoning our jurisdiction up here
David Hoovler – Orange County District Attorney
The arrest took place as part of a two-year-long narcotics investigation conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies throughout Orange County. The investigation relied on court-ordered eavesdropping, leading to the execution of seven search warrants. The investigators also arrested Angelica Rodriguez, a 39-year-old from Otisville, charging her with conspiracy and drug possession.
Rodriguez is accused of supplying cocaine to Angelica Rodriguez and Tiano Lopez, who then distributed the drugs in and around Middletown and Port Jervis. He faces multiple charges, including criminal possession of a controlled substance, two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, and conspiracy.
Both Michael Rodriguez and Angelica Rodriguez are currently held without bail in Orange County Jail, awaiting their court appearances. Several other individuals from Orange County and Sullivan County were also arrested in connection with the drug operation.
Hoovler expressed his dismay over Michael Rodriguez’s actions.
It is unconscionable that the Director of a respected group which has pledged to reduce gun violence and help at-risk youth would himself choose to become a major drug dealer and commit weapons offenses.
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