Traffic Stop in Bath Leads to Drug Arrest and Warrant Detainment

Feb 181 min read

Bath, NY – A routine traffic stop in Bath, Steuben County, resulted in drug-related arrests and the detainment of an individual with an active warrant on the night of February 16, 2025.

At approximately 10:39 p.m., New York State Police in Bath initiated a traffic stop on East William Street for traffic violations. Officers from the Bath Police Department arrived on the scene to assist.

The driver was identified as Joseph L. Burleson, 60, of Savona, NY, with two passengers in the vehicle. Further investigation identified the front passenger as Robert E. Wright, 42, of Campbell, NY, and the rear passenger as Terry L. Bulkley, 44, of Bath, NY.

While the occupants exited the vehicle, officers observed drug paraphernalia on the floorboard, prompting a more thorough search. Law enforcement recovered one gram of suspected methamphetamine crystal, methamphetamine residue, Suboxone tablets without a prescription, digital scales, and additional drug paraphernalia.

Arrests and Charges

Robert E. Wright was taken into custody and charged with:
- Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th (A Misdemeanor)
- Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia (A Misdemeanor)
Terry L. Bulkley was found to have an active warrant from the Corning Police Department and was taken into custody before being transferred to Bath PD.

Both individuals were transported to SP Bath for processing before being taken to the Steuben County Jail for arraignment in CAP Court on February 17, 2025, at 8:30 a.m.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident.