Two Charged in Connection with Washington Robbery

The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest of Christopher R. Arsenault (age 32 of Kingston NY) and Salem E. Welborn (age 31 of Kingston NY) in connection with an alleged robbery that occurred during the late evening hours of 2/4/20 in the Town of Washington. 

At approximately 9:30 pm on 2/4/20 Sheriff’s Deputies responded along with the State Police to 4957 Route 82 in the Town of Washington for a report of a possible burglary and robbery at that location. Upon arrival the suspects had fled in a vehicle, which was stopped a short time later just over the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge into Ulster County. After further interviews and investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau Mr. Arsenault and Mr. Welborn were taken into custody. Two victims suffered minor injuries during the incident and were treated at the scene. At this time this incident is not believed to be random and there doesn’t appear to be any threat to public safety.  

At this time both men are accused of entering a residence and forcibly stealing property from the victims (purse), and both have been charged with Robbery in the 2nd Degree (Felony). After being processed both were arraigned and remanded to the Dutchess County Jail – Mr. Welborn with no bail and Mr. Arsenault in lieu of $50,000 cash or $100,000 bond. 

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the New York State Police, Town of Red Hook Police, City of Kingston Police, Town of Ulster Police, and the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation is continuing and more information may be released as it becomes available. 

As with any criminal case the charge described above is merely an accusation and both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.