West Sparta, NY – A West Sparta man was taken into custody Thursday after deputies responded to reports of an allegedly erratic driver who had reportedly struck a sign and disabled his vehicle.
According to the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened Thursday around 4:30 p.m. on Everman Road in the Town of West Sparta. Deputies were dispatched after reports of a vehicle being operated in an erratic manner, with additional information indicating the vehicle had allegedly hit a sign and come to a stop.
Authorities said Deputy Walker Major arrived on scene and made contact with the driver, identified as 37-year-old Matthew Partridge of West Sparta. The deputy allegedly observed signs that Partridge was under the influence of alcohol and attempted to conduct a driving while intoxicated investigation. Officials report Partridge allegedly refused to cooperate with the investigation and was taken into custody.
Investigators further allege Partridge refused to submit to a chemical breath test to determine blood alcohol content. A records check with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles reportedly revealed that Partridge was allegedly operating the vehicle with a revoked driver’s license stemming from a prior refusal to submit to a chemical test.
Partridge was charged with felony aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, driving while intoxicated and additional violations under New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law. He was transported to the Livingston County Jail for processing and arraignment.
Officials said Partridge was later arraigned at the Livingston County Jail and released on his own recognizance, as the charges do not qualify for bail under current New York law. The Livingston County Public Defender’s Office represented Partridge, while the District Attorney’s Office appeared on behalf of the prosecution.
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