(WNY News Now) – West Seneca – A local school district superintendent faces a DWI charge after crashing his vehicle into a tree, raising questions about accountability and leadership in public office.

Sean M. Croft, 50, the superintendent of Starpoint Central School District, was arraigned in West Seneca Town Court on charges of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) following a single-vehicle crash on Nina Terrace, West Seneca, on August 31, 2024. Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced Croft’s arraignment, which also includes two additional traffic violations for speeding and unsafely moving from a lane.

Authorities allege that Croft was driving above the speed limit when he veered off the road and collided with a tree. Emergency responders treated him on-site for minor injuries. Croft was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

West Seneca Police Officers Cristofer Alberti and James Gehen handled the investigation, which led to Croft being issued an appearance ticket. The defendant’s New York State driver’s license was temporarily suspended. He was released on his own recognizance, as DWI first offense is a non-qualifying offense for bail under New York State law.

If convicted of the DWI charge, Croft faces up to one year in jail. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 15, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Kurt C. Snuszka of the Justice Courts Bureau. As are all persons accused of a crime, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.