Officers from the Town of Ramapo Police Department made an arrest Friday morning after discovering two individuals passed out inside a taxi at a shopping center near Route 59 and Brookside Avenue.
Police say a responding officer approached the vehicle and engaged the driver, who suddenly put the taxi in drive and attempted to flee by driving over a curb toward the state highway. The officer quickly took control of the situation despite resistance from the driver, with additional units responding to assist.
The driver, a 24-year-old resident of Montebello, was charged with Driving While Intoxicated. Authorities also determined that the passenger in the vehicle was a 15-year-old minor, leading to additional charges under Leandra’s Law.
Further charges include Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, after police say the driver’s license had been suspended six times on two separate dates, as well as Obstructing Governmental Administration and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
The defendant was arraigned before the Village of Airmont Justice at approximately 11:30 a.m. and was released on his own recognizance. He is due back in the Village of Airmont Court on April 16, 2026.
Police say the incident underscores the vigilance and quick response of officers working to keep the community safe.
