Sometimes a traffic stop can lead to additional charges. A driver and his passenger from Peekskill, New York, are now facing both impaired driving and drug charges in Putnam County after a traffic stop about a week ago revealed that the 31-year-old male driver was allegedly operating the vehicle without a license and the 30-year-old female passenger was allegedly in possession of PCP.
To further complicate the matter, the driver has reportedly had two prior convictions for driving with ability impairment within the last 10 years and had his license revoked as a result. This being his third similar offense, authorities charged him with a felony count of DWAI. He also faces a felony charge of first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. His passenger faces a Class A misdemeanor charge of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree.
Following processing at the Putnam County Correctional Facility, a judge remanded the driver there on no bail due to his past felony convictions. It is known that the driver has an upcoming court appearance scheduled, but the exact date and time are unavailable. Authorities issued the passenger an appearance ticket to the Town of Southeast Justice Court and released her on her own recognizance.
The traffic stop took place on a Saturday evening in the community of Southeast, New York, when a law enforcement officer noticed several traffic violations on Route 22. Authorities conducted an investigation upon learning of the driver’s criminal record and lack of a license, which led to the discovery of the drugs that the passenger allegedly possessed.
It is impossible to overstate the severity of DWAI offenses, which means that those facing charges related to impaired driving may find it useful to contact an attorney.