The STOP-DWI Coordinator for Oneida County was fired after deputies found him with cocaine in his car during a traffic stop, county officials said Wednesday.

Thomas Giruzzi's arrest was announced in a joint release from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office and Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente Jr.’s office.

Deputies said the 54-year-old Utica man was spotted driving Tuesday night on Genesee Street in Utica without his seatbelt and talking on his cell phone. Giruzzi was stopped and found to be in possession of cocaine, authorities said.

Giruzzi was charged with driving while ability impaired (drugs), said Sheriff Robert Maciol, along with other violations. He was processed and released and is slated to appear in Utica City Court on April 23 for an initial arraignment.

“Mr. Giruzzi has been removed from his position as STOP DWI Coordinator effective immediately and is no longer employed by the County of Oneida,” Picente said in a statement. “Last night, he was arrested for driving under the influence. Fortunately, no one, including himself, was physically injured by his unacceptable and inappropriate actions."

Picente said he will seek to fill Giruzzi's former position "as soon as possible." In the meantime, Kevin Revere will oversee the program.

“It is my hope that Tom finds the help he needs at this time," Picente said. "Substance abuse is a serious disease that can affect anyone regardless of their personal or professional circumstances. The STOP DWI Office is mission critical to educating the public on the ill effects of driving while under the influence and making destructive decisions."

Giruzzi also has been removed from his post as secretary for the Association for STOP-DWI New York. Captain Robert Richards, the chair of the association, said Giruzzi was removed from the position immediately due to his termination from Oneida County.

"There is no excuse for Mr. Giruzzi’s conduct and I am extremely disappointed in the choices he has made," Richards said.

Giruzzi was appointed coordinator in November 2012, but has worked for the county since 1995.