A man from Owasco was arrested this week after authorities say he was found in possession of crack cocaine during a police investigation at Emerson Park in Fleming.
Nicholas M. Passarello, 33, was taken into custody on February 12 following an arrest warrant issued in December. He has been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a misdemeanor under New York State law.
The investigation began on December 3, when Cayuga County Sheriff’s Deputies noticed a suspicious vehicle parked at Emerson Park after hours. As they approached the vehicle, Passarello opened the driver’s door to speak with them. During the conversation, a clear container fell to the ground, revealing a white powdery substance later confirmed to be crack cocaine.
Deputies attempted to contact Passarello multiple times to have him turn himself in for an appearance ticket, but after receiving no response, they secured an arrest warrant through Fleming Town Court on December 9.
More than two months later, on February 12, State Police located Passarello in Homer, New York. He was taken into custody and transported to the Cayuga County Jail for processing. At his arraignment that evening, he was released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to appear in Fleming Town Court on February 25 at 4:30 p.m.
Authorities urge anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips through the SaferWatch app.
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