HIGHLAND, NY — Town of Lloyd Police made three separate arrests within a five-day stretch this month, including one that has drawn attention for involving a young child.
Matthew K. Pirela, 31, of Newburgh, was pulled over on Route 9W on May 17 for traffic violations.
When officers approached the vehicle, they found a 7-year-old child inside.
Pirela was arrested and charged with felony aggravated driving while intoxicated under Leandra’s Law — a New York State law that automatically elevates a DWI to a felony when a child under 15 is a passenger in the vehicle.
He was transported to Ulster County Jail and is awaiting arraignment in Ulster County Centralized Arraignment Parts Court.
Woman Found Passed Out Behind the Wheel at Lowe’s
Four days earlier, on May 13, officers responded to the parking lot of the Lowe’s store in Highland after reports of a woman slumped behind the wheel of a running vehicle.
Theresa A. Williams, 46, of Kingston, was found unconscious in the driver’s seat.
She was arrested and charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.
Williams was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Town of Lloyd Court on May 28, 2026.
Third Arrest Made on Outstanding Bench Warrant
On May 15, officers arrested Shaquille O. Wimberly, 32, of Newburgh, on an active bench warrant for petit larceny.
Wimberly was transported to Ulster County Jail and is also awaiting arraignment in Ulster County Centralized Arraignment Parts Court.
What Is Leandra’s Law?
Leandra’s Law, formally known as the Child Passenger Protection Act, was signed into New York law in 2009.
It makes it an automatic felony to drive drunk or impaired with a child 15 or younger in the vehicle — regardless of whether it is a first offense.
A conviction can carry up to four years in state prison.
A Busy Week for Lloyd Police
Three arrests in five days is a notable stretch for a community the size of Highland.
Law enforcement officials have not indicated whether the incidents are connected, but the timing has put a spotlight on impaired driving in the area.
None of the individuals has been convicted. All are considered innocent until proven guilty.
Did you see anything unusual on Route 9W or near the Lowe’s in Highland this past week? Share what you know in the comments — local eyes matter in stories like this.
