John P. Crabtree, 48, of Syracuse (New York State Police)
CORTLAND, N.Y. — A state trooper was nearly hit by a passing driver on Interstate 81 in the town of Marathon late last week, New York State Police announced Monday.
The driver, later identified as 48-year-old John P. Crabtree, of Syracuse, was driving in the lane next to the trooper when he lost control of his vehicle and began drifting into the trooper's lane.
After pulling over and speaking with Crabtree, the trooper determined that Crabtree showed signs of impairment by drugs. Troopers also learned that his license had been suspended over 10 times.
Charges against him include aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a felony; operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs; and operating a vehicle while registration suspended, both misdemeanors.
He was also issued several traffic tickets.
Crabtree was arrested and arraigned in Virgil Town Court. He was taken to the Cortland County Jail without bail pending his next court date.
