ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) – Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple and his department conducted a crime suppression operation on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, targeting high-crime areas known for drug and firearm activity.
During the operation, 147 traffic stops were conducted, leading to multiple arrests and investigations.
High-Speed Chase Ends in Drug Arrest
At 9:33 p.m., near Clinton Ave. and Henry Johnson Blvd., officers attempted to stop a vehicle for multiple traffic violations. The driver, identified as Daniel Jackson, 53, fled at high speed, recklessly driving eastbound on First St. before crashing into three parked vehicles.
Jackson then attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended. Upon searching him, officers found crack cocaine in his possession.
🔹 Charges against Jackson:
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance (5th Degree) – Felony
Three counts of Criminal Mischief (4th Degree) – Misdemeanor
Multiple traffic violations
Felon Caught with Firearm After Traffic Stop
Earlier in the evening at 6:54 p.m., a traffic stop near Clinton Ave. and Lexington Ave. led to the arrest of Jamarl M. Townsend, 31, who had an active warrant from a December 5, 2024, incident.
During that prior incident, Townsend reportedly threw a cross-body bag out of his car window, causing a pursuing Sheriff’s vehicle to rear-end him. Inside the bag, officers discovered a Rock Island Armory 1911 .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun.
As a convicted felon, Townsend was not legally allowed to possess a firearm.
🔹 Charges against Townsend:
Criminal Possession of a Weapon (2nd Degree) – Felony
Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon (3rd Degree) – Felony
Tampering with Physical Evidence – Felony
Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle (3rd Degree) – Misdemeanor
Obstructing Governmental Administration (2nd Degree) – Misdemeanor
Two counts of Criminal Mischief (4th Degree) – Misdemeanor
Multiple traffic violations
Additional Arrests & Citations
Alongside these arrests, officers:
✅ Arrested one individual on an active warrant
✅ Arrested two individuals for Aggravated Unlawful Operation (2nd Degree)
✅ Issued 22 traffic tickets
✅ Towed 5 vehicles
✅ Seized 7 fictitious license plates
Both Jackson and Townsend are scheduled to appear in court on March 13, 2025.
Sheriff Apple emphasized the department’s commitment to reducing crime and improving public safety through proactive policing efforts.
