Man Arrested on Drug, Animal Cruelty Charges in Hoosick

Authorities executed a search warrant and found suspected narcotics and deceased canine

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

A 38-year-old man named Kevin T. Klebbe was arrested in Hoosick, New York after authorities executed a search warrant at his residence and found suspected narcotics as well as a deceased canine that appeared to be severely underweight. Klebbe was charged with several felony drug offenses, and the Rensselaer County District Attorney's Office has requested an autopsy of the deceased animal to potentially file additional charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the intersection of drug crimes and animal cruelty, which often go hand-in-hand. The discovery of the deceased canine raises concerns about the treatment of animals in homes where illegal drug activity is present, and the potential for more severe charges if the autopsy reveals evidence of intentional neglect or abuse.

The details

During the search warrant execution, deputies located suspected cocaine, scales, and U.S. currency in Klebbe's possession. They also discovered a deceased canine that was locked outside the home in freezing temperatures, as well as a second live canine in unsafe conditions. The living dog was transferred to the custody of the Hoosick Town Animal Control Officer, while the deceased animal was taken for an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

  • The search warrant was executed by the Rensselaer County Sheriff's Office on February 18, 2026 at approximately 6 p.m.
  • Klebbe was arraigned in Hoosick Falls Village Court and released on electronic monitoring to appear back in court on March 26, 2026.

The players

Kevin T. Klebbe

A 38-year-old man from Hoosick, New York who was arrested on felony drug charges and is under investigation for animal cruelty.

Rensselaer County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that executed the search warrant and made the arrest.

Rensselaer County District Attorney's Office

The prosecutor's office that has requested an autopsy of the deceased canine and may file additional charges.

Hoosick Town Animal Control Officer

The officer who took custody of the living canine found in unsafe conditions at the residence.

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What’s next

The Rensselaer County District Attorney's Office has requested an autopsy of the deceased canine, and additional charges may be filed pending the outcome of that investigation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the troubling connection between drug crimes and animal cruelty, underscoring the need for greater awareness and enforcement to protect vulnerable animals in homes where illegal activity is occurring. It also raises questions about the potential for more comprehensive laws and policies to address this intersection of issues.