(WNY News Now) – Lockport – A Niagara Falls woman faces up to four years in state prison after admitting to driving under the influence of marijuana and seriously injuring a young cyclist.

In a significant development, Niagara County District Attorney Brian D. Seaman announced that Juajhane Y. Cox, 25, of Niagara Falls, has pleaded guilty to Vehicular Assault in the 2nd Degree. The plea comes in connection to a July 19, 2023, incident on Ferry Avenue in Niagara Falls, where Cox, driving under the influence of marijuana, struck a juvenile riding her bicycle. The young victim sustained serious injuries that will impact her and her family for the rest of their lives.

“There is just no excuse for getting behind the wheel while under the influence of marijuana,” Seaman stated. “This is an example of the catastrophic results that can follow.”

Cox will return to court on November 27, where County Court Judge John J. Ottaviano will sentence her. She faces a potential prison term of up to four years.

The incident was investigated by the Niagara Falls Police Department Crash Investigation Unit and prosecuted by Vehicular Crimes Bureau Chief Christine Savoia.