Sheriff Brian Hess announces the arrest of Anthony James Morelli, 43, of Stamford, Connecticut, following a trespassing investigation that resulted in a physical struggle with a deputy in the Town of Putnam Valley.
On June 7, 2026, at approximately 9:54 a.m., members of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office responded to a private residence in Putnam Valley for a report of an unknown male trespassing on private property and swimming in the residence’s pool.
While responding to the call, deputies received information that the suspect had fled the area in a red pickup truck traveling toward Peekskill Hollow Road. A deputy quickly located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop.
Morelli repeatedly refused lawful commands from the deputy and actively resisted attempts to place him into custody, resulting in a physical struggle.
Despite the suspect’s active resistance and a physical struggle that lasted several minutes, the deputy was able to maintain control of Morelli until additional officers arrived on scene to assist in taking him into custody. Both Morelli and the deputy sustained minor injuries during the incident. Morelli was transported to Putnam Hospital Center for evaluation and treatment. The deputy sustained minor injuries and was treated and released.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Kent Police Department, Carmel Police Department, and New York State Police for their assistance during the incident.
Following medical treatment, Morelli was transported to the Putnam County Correctional Facility for processing.
Morelli was charged with:
- Assault in the Second Degree – Class D Felony
- Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree – Class A Misdemeanor
- Resisting Arrest – Class A Misdemeanor
- Obstruction of Governmental Administration – Class A Misdemeanor
Morelli was held pending arraignment in the Town of Putnam Valley Justice Court. Bail was set at $1,500 cash / $3,000 bond.
