A State Police narcotics operation on James Street led to two arrests and the seizure of drugs, a firearm and thousands of dollars in cash, according to authorities. Syracuse Search Warrant Results in Arrests and Drug Seizures.
A Syracuse search warrant led to two arrests on September 22 after New York State Police said investigators found cocaine, crack cocaine, prescription medication, a shotgun and more than $8,000 in cash inside a James Street residence. The charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
What happened during the Syracuse search warrant?
New York State Police said members of the Troop D Violent Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team executed a search warrant at 1208 James Street in Syracuse at about 10 a.m. on September 22, 2026. The operation included assistance from several State Police units, uniformed troopers and a police K9.
According to the release, investigators seized “approximately 155.9 grams of cocaine” along with 22.2 grams of crack cocaine. Police also reported finding numerous Suboxone strips, a 12-gauge shotgun, digital scales, packaging materials, a cutting agent and $8,277 in U.S. currency.
Who was arrested?
Police identified the two people arrested as Akeem R. Brown, 42, and Quanisha D. Duncan, 30.
Charges against Akeem Brown
- Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the second degree, a Class A-II felony
- Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony
- Criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor
- Three counts of criminally using drug paraphernalia, Class A misdemeanors
State Police said Brown was taken to the Onondaga County Justice Center for arraignment after processing at SP North Syracuse.
Charge against Quanisha Duncan
Duncan was charged with first-degree failure to safely store rifles, shotguns and firearms, a Class A misdemeanor. State Police said she was processed at SP North Syracuse and released on an appearance ticket.
Why the case matters in Central New York
The search brought together narcotics investigators, specialized State Police units and local and federal partners. State Police said the Syracuse Police Department and the FBI assisted with the investigation.
The case combines allegations involving controlled substances, drug-packaging materials and a firearm. The State Police release did not say the shotgun was fired or used to threaten anyone, and it did not identify additional suspects.
The quantities reported by police are large enough to support serious felony charges under New York law, although the exact legal outcome will depend on the evidence presented in court.
What happens next?
Brown’s felony charges will move through the court process after arraignment. Duncan, who was issued an appearance ticket, is expected to appear in court at a later date.
Charges are accusations, not proof of guilt. Prosecutors must prove the elements of each offense in court, and both defendants have the right to legal counsel and other protections provided by the criminal justice system.
Source
This report is based on a New York State Police news release dated September 23, 2026. Utica Phoenix has rewritten and organized the information for clarity and local readers.
