Carmel Man Arrested on Weapons and Narcotics Charges

Sheriff Brian Hess announces the arrest of Joseph M. Kocinsky, age 29, of Carmel, New York, following an extensive investigation conducted by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office after receiving a lead from Homeland Security Investigations – New York’s Hudson Valley office.

On February 10, 2026, members of the Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit (SIU), with assistance from the Major Crimes Unit, Crime Scene Unit, Conditions Unit, and the Carmel Police Department, executed a search warrant at a residence in the Town of Carmel.

During the execution of the warrant, investigators located and seized quantities of ketamine, several hundred vials of anabolic steroids, approximately $15,000 in U.S. currency, and an assault-style weapon. Investigators also discovered materials consistent with the operation of a steroid production laboratory.

Kocinsky was taken into custody and charged with:

• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class C Felony)
• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Class D Felony)
• Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree – Intent to Sell (Class D Felony)
• Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree (Class D Felony)
• Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree (Class A Misdemeanor)

Kocinsky was arraigned in the Town of Carmel Court and released on his own recognizance pending future court appearances.