CLINTON — A man wanted on felony drug charges surrendered peacefully Monday after barricading himself in a home following a police pursuit in Dutchess County.
Zachary Higgins, 34, was arrested and charged with unlawful fleeing from a police officer, reckless driving, and third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, all misdemeanors, according to the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident began when Higgins allegedly led a deputy on a pursuit that ended at 167 North Creek Road in the Town of Clinton at approximately 3 p.m.
Authorities said Higgins fled into a home on the property and barricaded himself inside, where he potentially had access to firearms.
The Sheriff’s Office deployed its Emergency Services Unit, drone unit, Crisis Negotiations Unit and Detective Bureau to assist patrol deputies at the scene.
Deputies established communication with Higgins from outside the residence, which eventually led to his peaceful surrender.
During the investigation, authorities discovered Higgins had an active bench warrant from the Town of Newburgh for felony drug charges.
After processing, the Sheriff’s Office issued Higgins an appearance ticket before turning him over to the Town of Newburgh Police Department for their warrant.
The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by members of the Dutchess County Drug Task Force, New York State Police, Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management and Empress EMS.
