Report: Assemblyman Katz Accepts Plea Deal in Marijuana Case

Assemblyman Steve Katz (R-C, Mohegan Lake) has received 20 hours of community service and a $75 fine as part of a plea deal, according to the Journal News. 

Katz, 59, was ticketed for unlawful possession of marijuana and speeding when he was stopped for speeding on New York State Thruway in the town of Coeymans on March 14 at about 10 a.m.

While driving northbound on I-87, Katz was traveling at 80 mph in a posted 65-mph speed zone, police said. After noting the odor of marijuana, a trooper found Katz in possession of a small bag of marijuana. 

He was not present in Coeymans Town Court on Thursday. His attorney appeared on his behalf, the Journal News reported. 

As part of the deal, the paper reported, Katz received a lesser parking ticket and an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal. If the assemblyman stays out of trouble and completes his community service, the unlawful possession of marijuana charge would be dropped, the paper reported. 

Katz, a veterinarian who lives in Yorktown with his wife Nicole and their four daughters, was first elected to office in 2010. His 94th Assembly District includes Yorktown, Somers, Patterson, Southeast, Carmel and Putnam Valley.