Acting Sheriff Brian Hess reports the arrest of a Brooklyn man after fleeing a traffic stop and crashing in Dutchess County.

On September 15, 2025, at approximately 1:15 pm deputies were advised to be on the lookout for a vehicle that had just crossed into Putnam County from Westchester on Route 9 in Philipstown. The vehicle was wanted in a theft from a jurisdiction in Westchester County. Shortly after, a deputy observed the vehicle traveling northbound and conducted a traffic stop near Indian Brook Road. The vehicle stopped and contact was made with the driver, who then drove away where he was pursued northbound into Fishkill and on to I84 eastbound. The vehicle then ran off the roadway and burst into flames west of the Lime Kiln Road exit. The two passengers were quickly apprehended but the driver fled into the woods. A perimeter was established with the assistance of the NY State Police, the East Fishkill and Fishkill PD's and at approximately 4:30 pm the suspect, 23-year-old Brandon C. Waller, was located and taken into custody.

He was charged with the following misdemeanor's, Reckless Endangerment 2nd degree, Criminal Impersonation 2nd degree, Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd degree, Resisting Arrest, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle 3rd degree and Reckless Driving. Waller was also given numerous tickets for vehicle and traffic violations. He was issued an appearance ticket for the misdemeanors and is to appear in the Town of Philipstown Court at a future date. There were no charges for the two passengers.