Tractor Trailer driver arrested for DWI and illegal weapon

Press Release

On August 21, 2024, at approximately 1:40 p.m., New York State Police at Homer with the assistance of the Troop "C" Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit (CVEU) arrested a truck driver who was operating a tractor trailer with an oversized load while impaired by alcohol and in possession of an illegal weapon.

William Harris, age 52 of Richmond, VA was charged with the class "D" felony of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree and the misdemeanor of Driving While Intoxicated in a Commercial Vehicle.

Members of the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit were at the Preble Rest Stop on Interstate 81 northbound for a commercial vehicle check where all operators of commercial vehicles are directed to enter for an inspection. They observed a tractor trailer attempt to bypass the inspection at the rest stop. Troopers from CVEU stopped the driver and upon an interview believed he may be intoxicated.

A Trooper from SP Homer responded to the location and asked Harris to perform Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, which positively indicated impairment. Harris was arrested. Troopers also located an assault weapon in his possession, which is not compliant with the New York State SAFE Act.

Harris was processed at SP Homer where his reportable B.A.C was .09%. Harris was later transported to the Cortland County Correctional Facility for Centralized Arraignment.