On January 9, 2023, at approximately 11:28 p.m., Watervliet police officers conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of 25^th Street and Second Avenue after observing violations of the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law. The driver, Michael J. Smith, was operating the vehicle with three passengers under the age of 12.

An evaluation was conducted by a Watervliet Police Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) to gauge Smith’s level of impairment and ability to operate a vehicle. Following the assessment, it was determined Smith was impaired by drugs while operating the vehicle.

Watervliet Police charged Smith, a 29-year-old male from Cohoes (photo attached) with three counts of Aggravated DWI – Leandra’s Law (Class E Felony), three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Class A Misdemeanor), Operating a Motor Vehicle Impaired by Drugs (Class A Misdemeanor) and other Vehicle and Traffic Law violations.

Smith was released on an appearance ticket and ordered to return at a later date.