Schenectady Man Sentenced for DWI, Illegal Gun Possession

Kenneth Gray faces 7 years in prison after traffic stop revealed loaded 9mm handgun without permit

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A 29-year-old Schenectady man named Kenneth Gray has been sentenced to 7 years in state prison after pleading guilty to criminal possession of a weapon and driving while intoxicated. During a traffic stop in March 2022, police found Gray in possession of a loaded 9mm handgun in his vehicle, which he did not have a permit to own.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about illegal gun possession and drunk driving incidents in the Capital Region. Authorities say Gray's arrest is part of a broader effort to get unlawful firearms off the streets and improve public safety on local roads.

The details

On March 9, 2022, Colonie police conducted a traffic stop on Central Avenue after observing Gray driving erratically. Officers detected an odor of alcohol on Gray's breath and noted he had slurred speech, leading to his arrest for DWI. A search of Gray's vehicle revealed a loaded 9mm handgun in the glove box, which he did not have a permit to possess.

  • On March 9, 2022, Colonie police conducted the traffic stop that led to Gray's arrest.

The players

Kenneth Gray

A 29-year-old Schenectady resident who was sentenced to 7 years in prison for criminal possession of a weapon and driving while intoxicated.

Colonie Police

The law enforcement agency that conducted the traffic stop and arrested Gray.

Albany County District Attorney's Office

The prosecutor's office that handled Gray's case and announced the sentencing.

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What’s next

The judge's sentence of 7 years in state prison for Gray will be followed by 5 years of post-release supervision.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of removing unlawful firearms from communities and the dangers of drunk driving, which authorities continue to prioritize addressing through enforcement and prosecution.