Charged with DWI, Man Fights with Cab Driver, State Troopers in Southeast

Michael D. Mulqueen, 51, of Pomona NY, faces charges of driving while intoxicated, second-degree assault, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

Troopers were notified by Putnam County 911 before midnight Nov. 7 that an erratic vehicle was reported traveling on Interstate 684. The car was located a short time later speeding on State Route 22. Troopers stopped the vehicle, interviewed the operator and took him into custody, alleging that he was intoxicated.

After Mulqueen was charged for DWI, a taxi arrived at the Brewster station to return Mulqueen to his residence in Rockland County.

However, the taxi driver notified the troopers that he had an argument with Mulqueen over the price of cab fare.

Police said they mediated an agreement that Mulqueen would pay the fare after stopping at a local bank.

So troopers followed the taxi to ensure the safety of the driver. After arriving at the bank, Mulqueen again argued over the fare. Then he struck both officers—and when they tried to take him into custody for assault he resisted arrest, police said.

Both troopers were transported to the Putnam County Hospital where they were treated and released for minor injuries.

Mulqueen was arraigned before the Town of Southeast Court and sent to the Putnam County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash bail. He is scheduled to reappear in Southeast Court Dec. 2.