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On August 14, 2025, an Ulster County jury took just 30 minutes to convict David Loyd, a 46-year-old Sullivan County man with a long history of alcohol-related driving offenses, on all charges stemming from a December 2024 police chase in Ellenville, New York. The verdict—delivered in the Ulster County Courthouse in Kingston—caps a case that highlighted the dangers of repeat impaired driving and the legal system’s efforts to hold offenders accountable.
The Chase: From Stop Sign to Foot Pursuit
The incident began on December 18, 2024, when Loyd ran a stop sign on Washington Avenue in Ellenville. Instead of pulling over, he backed his vehicle into a police car, nearly causing a collision. New York State Police initiated a pursuit with lights and sirens, but Loyd refused to stop. He sped through the village at speeds reaching 30 mph over posted limits on busy roads, hit curbs, sending sparks flying, ran additional stop signs, and cut through a McDonald’s parking lot, endangering pedestrians and other drivers. The chase ended when Loyd’s tire blew out. He then fled on foot through residential backyards, where officers used a Taser to subdue him.
Refused Tests, Permanently Revoked License
At the scene, Loyd refused field sobriety tests and a chemical test for alcohol or drugs. Investigators later discovered that his driver’s license had been permanently revoked—a rare penalty reserved for multiple DUI convictions under New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law. Additionally, court orders had previously required him to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owned or operated, a mandate he was actively violating at the time of the chase.
The Charges and Verdict
After a day-and-a-half of evidence presentation and closing arguments, the jury returned a swift guilty verdict on every count. The charges included:
Senior Felony Assistant District Attorney Karin Intermill, who heads the Ulster County DA’s DUI unit, prosecuted the case. She noted that Loyd’s record includes multiple prior DWI offenses. “This defendant has a long history of multiple offenses involving driving while under the influence of alcohol,” Intermill said. “This case is proof that he continues to represent a danger to the community. I am grateful to the jurors for their attention and serious consideration in this case.”
DA’s Harsh Words for ‘Selfish and Arrogant’ Defendant
Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel Nneji praised Intermill and Assistant District Attorney Anthony Stephens for their work. “These are dedicated public servants in this Office who, like all others here, are singularly focused on the safety of the people of Ulster County,” Nneji said. “This focus is vital because we have selfish and arrogant criminals like David Loyd who don’t give a damn about the hazards they present to the rest of the public. He is a belligerent man who feels the world owes him everything, but he owes no responsibility to others. His arrogance and selfishness are no different from those in the past who have traumatized others and families with serious physical injuries and much worse but have nothing to offer except hollow apologies. At some point enough has to be just that – enough.”
Loyd Represented Himself During Trial
In an unusual move, Loyd chose to represent himself throughout the trial, though his attorney remained present in the courtroom ready to step in if needed. The decision likely complicated his defense, as he lacked formal legal training in the face of multiple felony charges.
Sentencing and Implications
Loyd is scheduled to be sentenced on October 16, 2025, before Ulster County Judge. He faces a potential maximum of 7 years in prison for the felony DWI conviction alone, plus additional consecutive time for the fleeing and unlicensed operation charges. Because of his prior record, he may also be subject to enhanced penalties under New York’s persistent offender laws.
Expert Perspective: Why Repeat DUI Offenders Pose a Unique Threat
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers with a prior DUI conviction are significantly more likely to be involved in a fatal crash. In New York, approximately one-third of all DUI arrests involve individuals with at least one prior offense. Cases like Loyd’s underscore the importance of mandatory ignition interlock programs and stricter enforcement of license revocations.
“The fact that Loyd’s license was permanently revoked yet he was still behind the wheel, intoxicated, and willing to flee police, shows a dangerous disregard for the law and public safety,” said Sarah Jenkins, a former prosecutor and DUI law expert. “The jury’s quick verdict suggests the evidence was overwhelming, and the community should feel reassured that the justice system is taking these crimes seriously.”
What’s Next for Ulster County
The DA’s office has made DUI enforcement a priority, with Intermill’s unit focusing on prosecuting repeat offenders. Community advocates are calling for increased funding for sobriety checkpoints and public awareness campaigns. Meanwhile, the families of past DUI victims in the region have expressed hope that Loyd’s conviction sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
The case of David Loyd serves as a stark reminder that one bad decision, multiplied by a history of bad choices, can lead to a felony conviction and potential prison time—all while endangering innocent lives. For the residents of Ellenville and Ulster County, the verdict
