Legislator-Elect Released On Own Recognizance After DWAI Charge: Court

RIVERHEAD, NY — A newly elected Suffolk County legislator who was arrested and charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs Sunday was released on her own recognizance Monday morning, according to Riverhead Justice Court officials.

She pleaded not guilty before Riverhead Justice Lori Hulse and told police she'd taken "one to two Oxycodones," Newsday reported.

Catherine Stark , 60, is due back in court on January 24; her license was not suspended because she submitted to a blood sample and until test results come back, her driving privileges remain intact, officials said.

According to Riverhead Town police, the incident took place at about 2:28 p.m.; a 911 call came in regarding an impaired driver in the area of Pond View Road in Riverhead. A patrol officer located the vehicle and made contact with the driver, Stark, police said.

She was arrested and charged with DWAI drugs, police said. She was transported to Riverhead Town police headquarters and held for arraignment, police said.

Stark's attorney, Steven Losquardo, released a statement: "Catherine Stark has courageously been battling cancer, a condition that she has chosen until now to keep private," he said. "This incident occurred when she unfortunately went to the store hours after taking her medication."

Losquadro added: "There was no alcohol or illegal substances involved, and a test volunteered to by Ms. Stark showed this. A blood test, also voluntarily given by Ms. Stark, will conclusively prove this. All medication taken by Ms. Stark to assist in her fight against this disease has been prescribed by her oncologist."

Losquadro said that Stark "looks forward to a quick resolution of this incident, including relevant circumstances regarding her treatment, before the court in a responsible and respectful manner."

On Election Night, Stark won the seat currently held by Sufffolk County Legislator Al Krupski, who in turn won the Southold Town supervisor's position.