Port Washington School Superintendent Removed After DWI Arrest

By Thomas Nothel

Port Washington Schools Superintendent Michael Hynes was arrested this past Sunday evening after Suffolk Police charged him with driving while intoxicated when he crashed into a motorcyclist in Sayville.

Hynes resides in Sayville, and was driving northbound on Railroad Avenue when he attempted to turn left onto Depot Street and then crashed into a southbound motorcycle operated by a 63-year-old man from Sayville.

The injured motorcyclist had serious injuries and was rushed to an area hospital, Suffolk police said. Hynes too was taken to the hospital, with minor injuries.

After being taken to the Hospital, Hynes was held in jail overnight at the Sixth Precinct and then arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip the next day.

He is scheduled to appear in court again on December 12th.

Police said both vehicles were impounded for safety checks.

Hynes had announced in mid-November that he was stepping down as Port Washington School Superintendent - for a “new opportunity” - with a resignation date of December 13th.

That date has now been expedited, a spokesperson for the district stated.

"The district is aware of the incident involving our superintendent of schools, Dr. Michael Hynes," stated the District spokesman. "We are gathering additional information. Dr. Christopher Shields has been appointed acting superintendent of schools, effective immediately. When more information is available, the community will be updated."

Hynes, age 53, served as Port Washington Schools Superintendent for 5 ½ years.