On May 5th, 2024 Deputy Jason Page was assigned to the Sheriff's Office Highway Patrol Unit when he conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 390, in the Town of Avon, for violations of the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law. Deputy Page made contact with the operator, who was identified as 38-year-old Stephanie Scharet of Perry, NY, and the passenger, identified as 37-year-old Justin Shaffer of Gainesville, NY.
During the roadside encounter, the Deputy suspected the individuals to be involved in drug activity. A search was conducted and units on scene located a quantity of suspected cocaine, digital scales, and unused packaging consistent with packaging narcotics, which Scharet took ownership of. Shaffer was also found to be in possession of a quantity of suspected cocaine. Both Scharet and Shaffer were taken into custody. Deputies later field-tested the substance, which tested positive for cocaine.
Scharet was arrested and charged with, felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, felony Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance e and Traffic Law violations. Shaffer was arrested and charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree and released with an appearance ticket to return at a later date.
Scharet was turned over to Central Booking Deputies at the Livingston County Jail for processing. The District Attorney's Office was contacted in regards to bail due to the felony level charges. It was recommended that Scharet be released on her own recognizance after arraignment, as the charges do not qualify for bail under the NYS Justice Reform Act. Scharet was later arraigned at the Livingston County Centralized Arraignment Part (LC-CAP) at the Livingston County Jail before Justice Porter. The Judge did release Scharet on their own recognizance, to return to court at a later date.
The Livingston County Public Defender’s Office was present and represented Scharet at the court arraignment for her defense. The Livingston County District Attorney’s Office was notified and did appear to represent the people.