Off-Duty Deputy Arraigned on DWI Charge After Collision

Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announces that Christopher D. Imhof, 35, of Cheektowaga, was arraigned this morning before Cheektowaga Town Court Justice John J. Wanat on one count of Driving While Intoxicated (unclassified misdemeanor under New York State Vehicle & Traffic Law).

It is alleged that on Friday, August 21, 2026, at approximately 9:12 p.m., the defendant was driving eastbound on French Road in the in the Town of Cheektowaga when he crossed into the westbound lane, causing a head-on collision with another vehicle near Garden Village Drive. The defendant is accused of driving while under the influence of alcohol.

The driver of the other vehicle, a 60-year-old male, was taken by ambulance to ECMC where he remains hospitalized with serious physical injuries. The defendant was also transported by ambulance where he was treated for injuries and released. The defendant, who is employed by the Erie County Sheriff's Office, was off-duty at the time of the crash.

Imhof is scheduled to return for a pre-trial conference on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. He was released on his own recognizance as the charge is a non-qualifying offense for bail. Additional charges may be filed.

DA Keane commends the Cheektowaga Police Department for their work in this ongoing investigation.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Mitchell T. Schoellkopf of the Vehicular Crimes Bureau.

As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.