New York State Police say they’re making more stops for drivers under the influence of cannabis.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York State Police say officers are stopping more people driving under the influence of cannabis.
Trooper James O’Callaghan — a state police public information officer — told 2 On Your Side that since legalization in 2021, troopers report about a 20 percent increase in drug-related DWI arrests statewide.
Officials warn cannabis can be highly potent and, in some cases, even stronger than alcohol.
“March of 2021, it was legalized here in New York with the cannabis,” O’Callaghan said. “We see a 20% increase on just New York State Police DWI drug arrests. We see about a 17% increase on DWI alcohol arrests when it comes from 2023 to 2025. So we are seeing an increase in the cannabis use in people behind the wheel. And unfortunately, even with the PSAs and different things that we’re putting out there, we do see an increase in not only alcohol but also in cannabis, both of those categories.
“And when you’re talking about the cannabis, you’re not comparing beer to cannabis. Cannabis is more in the realm of if you were to think alcohol to cannabis, you’re more thinking whiskey and above.”
O’Callaghan said police across New York will continue to crack down on drivers under the influence to keep local roads safe.
O’Callaghan on Friday also talked with 2 On Your Side about a joint crackdown that is underway on the Kensington Expressway as state and local police target dangerous speeding and street racing following a recent deadly crash.
You can read more about that by clicking here.