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A 31-year-old man from Gardiner named Cody Valenti, has been charged after allegedly pulling a knife on a police officer. The incident occurred on Tuesday (June 24) when Ulster County Sheriff's deputies responded to a call about a man attempting to break down a door on Route 44/55. Upon arrival, deputies encountered Valenti, who engaged in a heated verbal exchange before retreating to a basement door and arming himself with a knife.
According to Mid Hudson News, a brief standoff ensued, during which Valenti allegedly threatened a deputy with the knife. The situation de-escalated when the deputy drew a gun, prompting Valenti to drop the weapon. He was subsequently taken into custody without further incident after backup from state troopers arrived.
Valenti has been charged with menacing a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal mischief. He was remanded to the Ulster County Jail with bail set at $50,000 cash, $75,000 secured bond, or $100,000 unsecured bond. An order of protection was also issued, prohibiting any contact with the protected party. However, shortly after being jailed, Valenti allegedly made two phone calls to the protected party, leading to additional charges of criminal contempt.
Later that evening, detectives executed a search warrant at Valenti's residence, seizing several articles of property and evidence from the scene. The investigation is ongoing.