On January 09, 2026, at 2:24 a.m., a Monroe County Sheriff’s deputy observed a 2023 Cadillac Escalade with dark tinted windows. The deputy also observed the Cadillac following too closely to the vehicle ahead of it, as it continued on I-490 westbound approaching I-390. 

The deputy stopped the vehicle and spoke with the driver. During the initial conversation, the deputy observed indicators the driver may be under the influence of alcohol. 

The deputy continued with his investigation, leading to the arrest of the driver, James C. Gresham, for DWI. Following the arrest, an inventory search of the vehicle was completed. During that search, deputies found nine 31- gram bags of cocaine, $12,940 in cash, and one .45 caliber Springfield Armory XD handgun loaded with 13 rounds of ammunition. The handgun was not reported stolen but was also not registered to Gresham.

Gresham has a prior felony conviction, which prohibits him from possessing a firearm. 

As a result of the Deputy’s traffic stop and continued investigation, James C. Gresham, 47, of Rochester, is charged with:

  • Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree (Class A-I Felony)
  • Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class C Felony) 
  • Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Class D Felony) 
  • Driving While Intoxicated by Alcohol (Class A Misdemeanor)
  • Traffic Infractions for Following Too Closely and Tinted Driver’s Window

Following the arrest, Gresham was transported to Monroe County CAP court for arraignment and is currently being held without bail, pending his next court appearance.

Excellent proactive work by the deputies for their keen observations and continued investigation, which resulted in the removal of an unregistered handgun and drugs from our streets.

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Deputy David Marcucci
Public Information Officer
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
MCSOCommunications@monroecounty.gov
(585) 753-4840