Driver arrested in Watervliet for illegal possession of firearm and driving while intoxicated during traffic stop

Michael Herb, a 25-year-old Watervliet man, was arrested earlier this month after being pulled over by Watervliet Police. During the traffic stop, police discovered that Herb was driving with a blood alcohol concentration two and a half times the legal limit. Additionally, they found a loaded handgun inside his car. Herb has a prior weapons and DWI conviction, which led to multiple charges being filed against him, including second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, aggravated driving while intoxicated, driving while intoxicated, first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, circumventing the ignition interlock device, and various vehicle and traffic law violations.

The incident took place on Thursday, March 14, when Watervliet Police pulled Herb over for driving a car with a cracked windshield and an altered inspection sticker. Herb was identified as the driver of the vehicle, and upon further investigation, police discovered the presence of the loaded handgun. Following the arrest, Herb was arraigned in Watervliet City Court and was subsequently remanded to the Albany County Correctional Facility to await further legal proceedings.

This arrest highlights the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and carrying weapons illegally. Herb’s actions not only put his own life at risk but also endangered the lives of others on the road. Being found with a loaded handgun while intoxicated is a serious offense that can have severe legal consequences. In addition to the criminal possession of a weapon charge, Herb also faces charges related to his intoxicated driving, including aggravated driving while intoxicated and driving while intoxicated.

The presence of prior convictions on Herb’s record indicates a pattern of risky behavior that has now resulted in another arrest. It is crucial for individuals to understand the legal implications of their actions and to take responsibility for the potential harm they could cause by driving under the influence or carrying weapons illegally. Law enforcement agencies, such as the Watervliet Police, play a crucial role in enforcing these laws and ensuring the safety of the community by apprehending individuals like Herb who pose a threat to public safety.

Overall, the arrest of Michael Herb serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior while operating a vehicle and the serious consequences that can result from illegal activities such as driving under the influence and carrying weapons unlawfully. By holding individuals like Herb accountable for their actions, law enforcement agencies work to maintain the safety and well-being of the community. It is essential for all individuals to respect and abide by the laws in place to protect themselves and others from harm on the roads and in society as a whole.