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A Montgomery County Sheriff's deputy is recovering after being injured in the line of duty on Saturday in Charleston.
The incident occurred when the deputy discovered 41-year-old Stephanie Ferris unconscious behind the wheel of a vehicle on State Highway 30A. When approached by the officer, Ferris allegedly refused commands to exit her vehicle.
The situation escalated when Ferris attempted to flee, dragging the deputy with her vehicle before crashing near the intersection of Fox Street. Following the crash, authorities apprehended Ferris and reportedly found her in possession of crack cocaine and methamphetamine.
The injured deputy received medical treatment at a local hospital and has since been released, though recovery is ongoing.
Ferris now faces multiple charges related to the incident and drug possession. This case comes amid ongoing concerns about drug-related incidents in upstate New York, where law enforcement agencies have been actively working to address narcotics trafficking.
While unrelated to this specific incident, recent drug enforcement operations in the region have highlighted the continuing challenges faced by law enforcement. Last week, authorities in nearby Saratoga County conducted a major operation resulting in multiple felony charges and the seizure of various illegal substances including methamphetamine and cocaine.