On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct admonished Eric T. Mortenson, a Justice of the Gallatin Town Court in Columbia County, for driving under the influence of alcohol. Mortenson agreed to the admonition.
The incident occurred in May 2024 when Mortenson was pulled over by New York State Police for failing to signal. He showed signs of impairment, failed field sobriety tests, and recorded a blood alcohol content of .07%. He was charged with driving while ability impaired and a traffic infraction, though both charges were later dismissed on the recommendation of the prosecution.
The Commission’s determination noted that Mortenson did not attempt to use his judicial position to avoid arrest. Commission Administrator Robert H. Tembeckjian stated that driving after excessive drinking violates the law and endangers others. He also acknowledged that Mortenson took responsibility for his actions and did not try to evade the consequences of his actions.
Judge Mortenson, who is not an attorney, has served as a Justice of the Gallatin Town Court since 2020, and his current term is set to expire on December 31, 2027.
A copy of the news release can be found here.
