Pine Bush Man Pleads In Head-On Crash That Paralyzed Teen

ORANGE COUNTY, NY — A Pine Bush resident faces three to nine years in prison for a 2023 car crash that paralyzed a teenager.

Chauncey Smith, 22, pleaded guilty May 1 to aggravated vehicular assault, Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced. He is scheduled to be sentenced July 16.

Smith was driving west on State Route 17K in the Town of Newburgh on Aug. 14, 2023, when he crossed over the double yellow line dividing traffic and collided head-on with an eastbound vehicle.

A 15-year-old inside the other vehicle sustained injuries which resulted in paralysis. Another occupant sustained serious physical injury, prosecutors said.

Smith admitted to the police that he had smoked marijuana, and a subsequent analysis of his blood confirmed its presence. At the plea proceedings, Smith admitted to causing serious physical injury to two people while high and driving recklessly, Hoovler said.

Hoovler thanked the Town of Newburgh Police Department for their investigation and the New York State Police for their assistance.

"The disregard for safety exhibited by this defendant has resulted in severe, life-altering harm to innocent individuals," Hoovler said. "We will vigorously pursue justice for the victims, sending a clear message that such egregious behavior will not be tolerated in our community."

The case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Julie Mohl.

"The consumption of marijuana remains dangerous and illegal when combined with driving a vehicle," Hoovler said. "In the wake of this reckless incident, we must emphasize the devastating consequences of drug-impaired driving."