Schenectady Man Charged with Drunk Driving with Child in Vehicle

This is the third DUI arrest for the 47-year-old suspect.

Feb. 16, 2026 at 7:15pm

A 47-year-old Schenectady man was arrested in Watervliet, New York for allegedly driving while intoxicated with a child under 12 years old in the vehicle. Isa A. Coleman was charged with aggravated DWI under Leandra's Law, DWI, and traffic violations. This is Coleman's third arrest for driving under the influence.

Why it matters

Driving under the influence with a child passenger is an extremely serious offense that endangers the life of the child and others on the road. Leandra's Law in New York imposes harsher penalties for DWI offenses committed with a child in the vehicle. This case highlights the ongoing challenges communities face with repeat DUI offenders.

The details

On February 12th around 1 AM, Watervliet police stopped Coleman's vehicle for a traffic violation. Officers observed signs that Coleman was impaired and discovered a child younger than 12 was in the vehicle. Coleman's blood alcohol content was nearly twice the legal limit. He was arrested and charged with aggravated DWI under Leandra's Law, DWI, and traffic violations. This marks Coleman's third arrest for driving under the influence.

  • On February 12, 2026 around 1 AM, police stopped Coleman's vehicle.

The players

Isa A. Coleman

A 47-year-old Schenectady man who was arrested for drunk driving with a child in the vehicle. This was his third DUI arrest.

Watervliet Police

The law enforcement agency that stopped Coleman's vehicle and arrested him for the DWI offense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Coleman was sent to Albany County Jail following his arrest. The judge will determine if he should be allowed out on bail as the case proceeds.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious dangers and legal consequences of driving under the influence with a child passenger. It also underscores the ongoing challenge communities face with repeat DUI offenders and the need for effective deterrents and rehabilitation programs.