SLINGERLANDS — On the morning of Dec. 2, State Police say, a vehicle was stolen in the area of New Scotland Road in Slingerlands and later located, with help from the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, on North Manning Avenue in Albany.

Subsequently, three people were charged: Robert K. Bigness, 38, of Valatie; Jude J. Roy, 39, of Rensselaer; and Molly S. Novakowski, 36, of Albany.

A release from the State Police says events unfolded this way:

Bigness knew the victim and allegedly took the vehicle without their knowledge or permission; he was the driver while Roy and Novakowski were passengers.

“Roy was determined to possess a controlled substance and a glass smoking device containing drug residue,” the release said. “During the interview of Bigness troopers observed signs of impairment” so a blood sample was taken.

All three suspects were charged with fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, a felony.

Bigness was also charged with fourth-degree grand larceny; driving while ability impaired by the combined influence of drugs or of alcohol; and first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation.

Roy was also charged with these misdemeanors: two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.

All three were issued appearance tickets returnable to the Albany City Court on Dec. 9, and released.

— Melissa Hale-Spencer