Schenectady DPW employee arrested for alleged DWI

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A Schenectady Department of Public Works employee was arrested after backing a city garbage truck into a coworker, pinning them between the garbage truck and a pole. Schenectady Police Department said Robert L. Thomas, 51, is facing multiple charges.

Police said they responded to the 600 block of Orchard Street for a man who was hit by a car. Police said an investigation found Thomas operating the city garbage truck when he backed into a second worker loading trash into the truck, pinning him between the garbage truck and a pole.

Officials transported the victim to Albany Medical Center and underwent surgery for his injuries. Police said their investigation found Thomas was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, leading to his arrest.

Thomas is no longer a city employee and was released on an appearance ticket. Stay with NEWS10 as more information becomes available.

Charges

• Driving while intoxicated with blood alcohol content greater than .08
• Driving while intoxicated
• Backing unsafely