Ryan Dignam, 30, of Middle Island, had 150 pounds of marijuana in minivan, New York State Police say

Police responding to a report of a minivan stopped in the center median on Sunrise Highway in East Quogue arrived to find 150 pounds of marijuana inside the vehicle before arresting the driver on felony drug charges, according to a New York State Troopers news release.

Troopers interviewing Ryan Dignam, 30, of Middle Island, at the scene early Saturday on the eastbound Sunrise Highway determined he had lost control of the minivan, which ended up on the median just east of Exit 64, the news release said. They also noticed what appeared to be marijuana in the front seat.

During a subsequent search, the troopers allegedly found approximately 78 pounds of cannabis, approximately 86 pounds of concentrated cannabis, approximately 7 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, digital scales and packaging materials, and approximately $12,000 in cash.

Dignam was charged with criminal possession of cannabis, a first-degree class D felony; criminal possession of concentrated cannabis, a first-degree class D felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the second degree, an A-II felony; and criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, an A misdemeanor.

According to the news release, Dignam was set for arraignment Sunday in the Town of Southampton Justice Court. Updates on the arraignment and possible legal representation for Dignam were not immediately available late Monday. 

By Deborah S. Morris

deborah.morris@newsday.comdsvmorris

Deborah Morris is a native Long Islander and covers the town of Huntington.