SCHENECTADY, New York — Two men were arrested on March 11, 2025, after New York State Police discovered approximately 8 pounds of a controlled substance believed to be cocaine during an ongoing drug investigation.
Daval Byrams, 22, of Troy, New York, and Angel M. Madera, 30, of Rensselaer, New York, were each charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, both felonies under New York law.
The arrests occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. after troopers from the Troop G Community Stabilization Unit located Byrams and Madera walking in the area of State Street in Schenectady, New York. As part of an active drug investigation, troopers interviewed the two men and discovered they were in possession of the suspected cocaine, which field-tested positive for the controlled substance.
“This seizure is a significant step in our ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Capital Region,” said a spokesperson for the New York State Police. “We remain committed to holding those who distribute illegal drugs accountable for their actions.”
Byrams and Madera were arrested at the scene and transported to SP Latham for processing. They were later taken to the Schenectady County Correctional Facility, where they await arraignment.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not released additional details about the suspects’ alleged involvement in drug distribution or whether others may be connected to the case.
Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first degree is a Class A-I felony in New York, punishable by up to 20 years in prison, while criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree is a Class B felony, carrying a potential sentence of up to nine years.
The New York State Police are urging anyone with information related to drug activity in the area to contact their local Troop G office at (518) 783-3211.
Sources: New York State Police, Schenectady County Correctional Facility.
