Catskill woman, minors charged in drug investigation

CATSKILL―A Catskill woman was among three people arrested this week in the City of Troy as part of an ongoing drug investigation.

Victoria Elizabeth Washburn, 25, is charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, both felonies, as well as misdemeanor second-degree obstruction of governmental administration and vehicle and traffic violations.

According to the Troy Police Department, on Wednesday, September 30, just before 8 p.m., officers assigned to Project Sentinel conducted a vehicle stop as part of an investigation into suspected drug activity.

Project Sentinel is a targeted, intelligence-led enforcement initiative of the Troy Police Department designed to address areas experiencing recurring criminal activity and quality-of-life concerns.

During the vehicle stop, Troy Police said officers were speaking with the occupants when they observed an individual with his hand on a firearm, with a defaced serial number, that was concealed underneath his arm. A second individual was also found to be in possession of an imitation firearm that police described as a flare gun.

Once officers discovered the firearm, the individuals attempted to flee from the area, police said. Officers immediately pursued the subjects, and all were apprehended a short time later.

A subsequent search of the individuals and their property resulted in the recovery of cocaine, police said.

The two other individuals charged were identified only as juvenile males. They both were charged with drug and weapons offenses, as well as resisting arrest.

Washburn is scheduled to appear in Troy City Court.