WCDO Radio News

33 year old Kevin Wilcox of
Harpursville pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular assault and driving
while impaired by drugs, at his arraignment Tuesday.  Wilcox was arrested following the
investigation into Monday afternoon's incident in Binghamton, where he
allegedly drove onto the sidewalk on Beethoven Street and struck 17-year-old
Harper Stantz and 19-year-old Britney Laserinko.   Both were taken to Wilson Hospital with a
variety of serious injuries, including internal injuries & fractures.  Wilcox is being held in the Broome County
Jail pending future court action.

18 year old Alec Zarkower's
death has been ruled as a suicide, following an autopsy performed Tuesday.  Zarkower's body was found in his dorm room at
SUNY Delhi Monday morning, SUNY Delhi officials said that counselors are available
for students in need.  Zarkower was a
freshman at SUNY Delhi, and was originally from Cortlandt Manor in Westchester County.

The Trial of Heather Franklin will begin on Aprils 1st in Chenango County Court, for the murder of her special needs son Jeffrey in 2017.  Heather & Ernest Franklin were accused of killing the teenager and setting fire to the family home in the town of Guilford, after they had watched "Manchester by the Sea" which contained a similar plot.  Ernest Franklin was convicted on Murder 7 Arson charges last week; he will be sentenced on May 3rd.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 39 year old
Kenneth Schuler of Boca Raton, Florida on charges of felony DWI and felony
aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, following an investigation
into a property damage motor vehicle accident on Lower Third Brook Road in the
Town of Walton. Schuler was additionally charged with speed not reasonable and
prudent, unlicensed operator, refusal to take a breath screening test and
operating a motor vehicle without a required ignition interlock device. Schuler
was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash bail
pending future court action.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 39 year old
LeAnne Taggart of Franklin, for possession of a Dangerous Dog in Violation of
the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law.
The arrest is a result of an investigation into a report of an
aggressive dog in the Town of Sidney. Taggart is scheduled to appear at Sidney
Town Court at a later date to answer the charge.

Jody Zakrevsky, who is the CEO of Otsego Now, will be
holding a series of "town hall" meetings throughout Otsego County in
the coming weeks. The first of these meetings will be held today at Hartwick
College in the Shineman Chapel from 5:30pm - 7:00pm. The second one will be
held on Thursday, at Oneonta Town Hall from 5:00pm - 6:30pm Topics to be
discussed range from grant opportunities available under the next consolidated
funding application process, economic and community development interests, and
energy. Questions and comments from the public are welcomed and encouraged.

Cornell Cooperative Extension will host a Farmers’ Market
Community Meeting at their Hamden office this morning from 9:30-11:30 am.  The goal of this meeting is to create and/or
strengthen relationships among individuals and groups that support farmers’
markets in Delaware County.  More
information is available at 865-6531 or ccedelaware.org.

State Police are investigating the circumstances behind the
death of 18 year old Alec Zarkower of Cortlandt Manor in Westchester County, in
his SUNY Delhi Dorm room Monday.
Zarkower was a freshman residing in the O'Connor Hall, Students were
told that there was no imminent danger & classes were held as
scheduled.  An Autopsy on Zarkower is
scheduled for today.

Binghamton Police Department responded to a report of a
vehicle collision with 2 pedestrians yesterday afternoon at about 3:25, on
Beethoven Street near Lincoln Avenue.
The police determined that a Jeep Wrangler left the roadway and struck
female teenagers; 16 and 19 years of age, they were taken to Wilson Hospital
The driver of the vehicle 33 year old Kevin Wilcox of Harpursville, he was
charged with Vehicular Assault & Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs,
he was arraigned this morning & was remanded to the Broome County Jail.

The 2019 Relay For Life of Chenango County Kickoff event
will be held today at 6:00 pm at the Community Room, at the Norwich YMCA.  The event is open to the public, Light
refreshments will also be served! The Chenango Relay For Life will be held at
East Main Street Park in Norwich, on Saturday, July 20th at 4:00 PM.

The State Department of Labor
today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for January.  The State’s area unemployment increased to
4.6% in January 2019, after remaining below 4% for several months at the end of
last year.  Locally, Chenango County's
Unemployment rate was 5.5%, Delaware county was at 5.6% & Otsego County at
5.4% for January.

37 year old Marlon Graham of Deposit pleaded guilty in Broome County Court Friday to possessing methamphetamine & fentanyl.   Graham pleaded guilty to criminal possession of a controlled substance, for selling those substances in Deposit & Kirkwood; Sentencing is scheduled for May 10

Minimum Wage employees across the state will see their paycheck go about for the New Year. New York City employees for large companies will see an increase to $15 dollars an hour; Long Island and Westchester County workers will see the minimum wage set at $12 dollars an hour, the rest of the state will see an increase to $11.10 an hour.

The state Department of Health says as of Thursday new cases of flu have been reported in 58 counties, including the five boroughs of New York City. Only Wyoming, Yates, Seneca and Hamilton counties are not reporting any cases yet. Officials say the number of people hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed flu was 363 this past week, a 41 percent increase over the previous week. So far this season more than 1,300 people have been hospitalized with the flu.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office responded to a tractor trailer accident on State Route 10 in the Town of Hamden Thursday Night. 41 year old Shaun Koch of Varysburg was driving a milk tanker on State Highway 10 when he ran off the right side of the roadway and the truck and trailer rolled over onto the side. Koch suffered a head injury and was transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton where he was treated and released. A small quantity of milk was spilled as a result of the accident, the DEC Spill Response Team was notified, Koch was charged with Driving While Intoxicated with a Commercial Vehicle, moving from lane unsafely and criminal possession of a controlled substance, he was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 bond.

The Chenango United Way is in the last days of fundraising for 2019. Spokesperson Elizabeth Monaco comments:

(Elizabeth Monaco 12-28-18)

Monaco said that they are at 91% of their state goals of $419,000 for 2019.

The Fenimore Art Museum of Cooperstown announced that an exhibit of photos from famed photographer Herb Ritts will be displayed their next year. The Ritts exhibit will be on loan from the Rock & Roll hall Of Fame in Cleveland, featuring photos of David Bowie, Tina Turner, Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Billy Joel, and Madonna. The exhibition opens on April 2nd & will be on display through early September.

Bethel Woods officials announced that the they will host the Music and Culture Festival, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the 1969 Woodstock festival at the original site. The 3 day event will be held August 16th to the 18th at Bethel Woods, the line-up & the date of the sale of the ticket will be announced shortly.

State Police & Local Law Enforcement Agencies are participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign again this year, during the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday season. Checkpoints will be established all over the state, last year, police issued over 40,000 tickets from DWI, Speeding, Distracted driving & failing to obey the "Move Over Law", among other infractions

Governor Cuomo announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6:00 AM tomorrow through 6:00 AM Wednesday, January 2nd, to ease travel during the peak New Year's travel days. Some work may continue behind concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. The New York State Thruway Authority will also continue its 48-year tradition of offering free coffee and hot tea to travelers at all 27 travel plazas along the Thruway from 11:00 PM New Year's Eve through 7:00 AM New Year's morning to promote safe and alert driving.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 32-year-old Jamison Galietta of Hancock, for Tampering with Physical Evidence, Criminal Mischief, Menacing, Criminal possession of weapon, Criminal obstruction of breathing, and Harassment, following an investigation into a domestic dispute at his residence. Galietta was arraigned in the Town of Hancock Court and later remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Faculty on $25,000 cash bail pending action in the Town of Hancock Court at a later date.

The Johnson City Police Department arrested 26-year-old Tyler DeCamp of Deposit as the 5th person involved in the stabbing of 2 men at a Johnson City McDonalds last week. Decamp was charged with 2 counts of attempted murder, he is accused of stabbing both victims. He was taken into custody in Johnson City Thursday, 4 others were already charged in connection with the incident Monday. Decamp was being held at the Johnson City Police Department pending arraignment.

59 year old Herbert Zindle of The Town Of Maryland was found guilty by an Otsego County Jury Tuesday for 9 counts of 2nd degree criminal sexual act. The jury reached their decision in less than 30 minutes, Zindle was convicted of performing sexual acts with a boy under the age of 15 on 9 occasions, he faces sentencing on August 27th in Otsego County Court.

The New York State Departments of Health and Agriculture & Markets cautioned New York residents, visitors and farmers about the continued importance of taking measures to protect against ticks, as a new tick species, the "longhorned tick," was recently discovered in Westchester County. The State Department of Health reported that the longhorned tick has transmitted disease to humans in other parts of the world, and may pose a threat to livestock. The Department of Agriculture and Markets encourages livestock owners and veterinarians to also be vigilant for unusually heavy tick infestations, if longhorned ticks are suspected, farmers should consult with their veterinarians and contact the Department at 518-457-3502.

On Friday evening, July 6, 2018, members of the Delaware County Sheriff's Office, State Police, including K-9 units, and the Village of Walton Police Department conducted an Enhanced Traffic Safety Enforcement Campaign in the Village of Walton and surrounding area towns. This campaign resulted in a total of 57 traffic summonses being issued. The collaborative detail resulted in the following arrests: 4 Arrests for Driving While Intoxicated; 2 Arrests for Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated; 1 Arrest for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle; 4 Arrests for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana; 1 Arrest for Reckless Driving & 1Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a free rabies clinic today in Delhi. The clinic for dogs, cats & ferrets will be held between 6:00 & 8:00 PM at the Delhi Fire Hall at 140 Delview Terrace. More information is available at 832-5200 or Delaware county public health.com.

State Police arrested 27-year-old Denzil Kelly of Binghamton, for Identity Theft, Criminal Impersonation, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, & Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Interlock Device. Kelly had been driving a vehicle and was stopped for speeding on Place Road in the Town of Windsor in January. During this traffic stop, he is accused of impersonating another person to keep from being arrested. Kelly was driving with a suspended license and his vehicle did not have a court ordered ignition interlock device installed. Kelly was arraigned in the Town of Windsor Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond.

Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will hold a Job Fair at SUNY Delhi on June 20th, Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO news that the Job Fair is also aimed at recent graduates looking to start careers:

(Ray Pucci 5-31-17)

The Job Fair will be held at SUNY Delhi's Farrell Hall, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM.

The Delaware County Firefighters Association is conducting their annual fund drive; they are looking to raise money for upgrades at the Charles Cook Fire Training Center in Hamden. Checks can be sent to the Delaware County Firefighters Association at 280 Phoebe Lane, Suite 3, Delhi 13753.

The corruption conviction of late State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton has been vacated. Yesterday, the U.S. Second Circuit court ruled in the appeal of Libous & the corruption conviction was vacated and the fine was ordered returned. Libous was convicted in 2015 of lying to the FBI for allegedly using his political influence to get his son a job with a Westchester County law firm. In October 2015, Libous was sentenced to 6 months house arrest and a $50,000 fine, an appeal was filed in November 2015, and Libous died in May 2016 after a long battle with cancer.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded a fatal, 2 car head on collision on Bear Spring Mountain in the Town of Walton Saturday. Sheriff’s Deputies and the State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit revealed that 43 year old Andrew Thompson of Tenafly, New Jersey, was driving on State Route 206 when a vehicle driven by 41 year old Joel Alves of Hopewell Junction crossed the center lines & collided head on with Thompson’s vehicle. Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene, his wife 43-year-old Wendy Hoeben, and their 6-year-old son were transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton, Hoeben was treated & released, and the child was transferred to Westchester Medical Center. Alves was also transported to Delaware Valley Hospital where he was also treated and released. Alves was driving with a suspended driver’s license and a suspended vehicle registration, the investigation is continuing & charges are anticipated.

Many locations in the Tri-County area were hit hard by Saturday's torrential downpours, which led to downed trees, isolated power outages and damage to property. Walton & Conklin hit flood stage, many other towns hit action stage, the latest river levels and projections can be found at WCDORADIO.COM & click on River Levels.

The Sidney Rotary Club is funding a Recovery Coach Training Program at the Tri-Town Hospital today. The program implementation and content will be delivered by Mary Rosenthal, Executive Director of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council Delaware County and instructor, Jeannette Tolson. The Training begins today through this Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Governor Cuomo today announced that The 2017 Regional State of the State Addresses would take place in 6 different locations over the course of 3 days. Cuomo announced that on Monday, January 9 in state of the State speeches would be delivered in New York City and Buffalo, on Tuesday, January 10 in Westchester County and Long Island & on Wednesday, January 11 in Albany and Syracuse. Tickets are non-transferable and seating is limited at each of the locations, tickets can be requested at governor.ny.gov through this Friday at12:00 Noon, Guests will be notified of their selection by email by Sunday, January 8.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 30 year old Anthony Hebbard of Treadwell on charges of felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 1st degree, felony aggravated driving with a BAC of .18% or greater, felony DWI, operating a motor vehicle in violations of ignition interlock, leaving the scene of a property damage motor vehicle accident and moving from lane unsafely following  a report of a 1 car MVA on County Highway 14 in the Town of Franklin. Hebbard is accused of having a BAC of .21%, he will appear at Franklin Town Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 57-year-old David Hayes of Coventry, Connecticut for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Hayes is accused of driving a motor vehicle while having two active suspensions on his license. Hayes was additionally charged with driving with an out headlight and was released on traffic tickets returnable to Franklin Town Court at a later date.

The state’s medical marijuana program will launch as scheduled tomorrow, but with only 8 of the 20 approved dispensaries, according to the state Department of Health. Some of the companies that have received the five licenses from the state to grow, manufacture and dispense have run into permitting issues with the dispensaries, which are located in Onondaga, Erie, Albany, Ulster and Westchester Counties, and in Manhattan. Additional dispensaries will be opened shortly. Medical marijuana will be available to patients with chronic diseases including cancer, HIV/AIDS, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis as well as severe forms of epilepsy.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Jeremy Sickles of Whitney Point for Grand Larceny. Sickles is accused of taken a 2001 Pontiac from an ex-girlfriend's residence in the town of Triangle last month, the owner of the vehicle received notification from the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office that her car had been impounded and that Sickles had been arrested on separate charges. Sickles was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail pending future court action.

State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton was found guilty by jury of lying to the FBI, for using his political influence to get a son Matthew a job with a Westchester County Law firm. The verdict means that Libous is automatically expelled from the state Senate. Matthew Libous was convicted earlier this year of tax evasion, a special election to replace Libous in the 52nd Senate district will be scheduled shortly.

33-Year-old Wayne Spratley faced additional charges in Norwich City Court This morning, for criminal use of a firearm and assault. Spratley was charged with attempted murder over the weekend for allegedly shooting an unidentified victim in the stomach early Sunday morning in a parking lot on Lackawanna Avenue. Spratley is being held in the Chenango County Jail on $50,000 cash bail.

The New York State Wage Board Voted in favor Wednesday of incrementally raising the minimum wage for Fast Food Workers in New York State over the next 6 years. The board voted in favor of raising the wage to $15 an hour, to be phased in by 2021. Fast Food workers in the Tri-County area would see the minimum wage increased to $9.75 on December 31, 2015, $10.75 on December 31, 2016, $11.75 on December 31, 2017, and eventually up to $15.00 on July 1, 2021. The board also stipulated that these wages would be in effect for fast food chains with 30 or more locations nationwide.

Emergency Crews in Norwich responded to a 2-car crash yesterday afternoon, on state route 12 near B&D Pool & Spa. Chenango County Fire officials reported that 3 passengers from both vehicles were taken to area hospitals, and that the Water Department responded as a Fire Hydrant was damaged in the accident. NYSEG was also dispatched to the scene. The names of the injured have not yet been released.

Broome County Executive Debbie Preston announced details of the upcoming auction of tax foreclosure properties in the County. The auction is Saturday, August 1st, at the Holiday Inn, on Hawley Street in Binghamton at 10:00 AM; Auction bidders must register between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM that morning. 130 properties are being auctioned off, as is, last year the county sold 120 properties, netting $805,000.

Otsego county officials announced another free rabies clinic today. The clinic will be held at the Morris fire department from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

LIBOUS GUILTY

State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton was found guilty by jury of lying to the FBI, for using his political influence to get a son Matthew a job with a Westchester County Law firm. The verdict means that Libous is automatically expelled from the State Senate. Matthew Libous was convicted earlier this year of tax evasion.

Jury Deliberations will begin at 9:30 in a Federal courtroom, in the trial of State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton. Libous is accused of lying to FBI Investigators regarding his alleged use of political influence to get his son Matthew a job with a Westchester County Law Firm, Matthew Libous was convicted of filing false tax returns to the IRS.

The Greater Chenango Cares Event is continuing at the Norwich High School, with a variety of "no cost" medical services. Chenango County Planning Department Spokesperson Rena Doing comments:

(Rena Doing 7-14-15)

Dental appointments must be made at 337-1643, veterinary services were booked up in advance, there may be limited slots open, and more information is available at 334-9724, extension 6. The program will run through July 22nd.

A jury was seated in a federal courtroom in White Plains Monday in the trial of State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton. Libous is accused of lying to the FBI about using his political influence in getting his son Matthew at a Westchester law firm. Matthew Libous faces prison time for tax evasion. Tom Libous still holds a seat in the New York State Senate.

The Chenango county health department has scheduled a free rabies clinic tonight in Coventry. The clinic will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 at the Coventry Highway department, for dogs, cats & domesticated Ferrets.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 46 year old Nicholas Mihalik of Davenport for 3rd degree Assault. The arrest resulted from a complaint at a residence in the Town of Kortright, Mihalik was arraigned and remanded to the Delaware County Jail on bail.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets today. The clinic will run from 5:00 to 6:30 PM in the Colchester Highway Garage in Downsville.

State Police responded to a fatal motor vehicle collision involving a passenger car and a motorcycle on Route 11 in the Town of Marathon. 42 year old Christopher Tanner of Marathon crossed the center of the roadway, striking a motorcycle being operated by 49 year-old Shanon Nasoni of Endicott. Nasoni was airlifted to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, where she was pronounced deceased. Tanner had a BAC of .21, he was charged with Vehicular Manslaughter, Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, and Failure to Keep Right. Tanner was arraigned in the Town of Marathon Court and was remanded to the Cortland County Jail without bail.

The trial of State Senator Tom Libous of Binghamton is scheduled to begin today. Libous was indicted last year for allegedly making a false statement to the FBI, when he was questioned about using his political influence to get his son Matthew a job at a Westchester County Law firm. Matthew Libous was found guilty last week on 3 counts of falsifying federal tax returns & he faces sentencing at a later date.

The “Greater Chenango Cares” event begins today through Wednesday the 22nd at the Norwich HIgh School Complex. Area residents can receive free medical, dental, optical & even Veterinary services from trained Army personel from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm each day.Chenango County Planning Department Spokesperson Rena Doing said that shuttle bus service is available:

(Rena Doing 7-13-15)

Walk-ins are allowed for Medical and Optical Services, more information about shuttle busses & how to make appointments for dental & veterinariy services, is available at the Greater Chenango Cares Facebook page.

Governor Cuomo issued an update on this weekend’s transformer fire at Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant in Westchester, as the DEC, State Police & US Coast Guard continuing working at the scene. The DEC and Coast Guard, continue to clean up oil spills, as they evaluate the environmental damage, the DEC anticipates having an estimate of the amount oil recovered from the Hudson River by the end of the week. Some oil burned during the transformer fire or dispersed before containment was in place in the river.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies investigated a two-car accident Saturday on County Highway 21 in the Town of Walton. 48-year-old Kathryn Smith of Franklin was northbound on County Highway 21 when she was side-swiped by a vehicle being driven by 51 year old William Davis of Franklin. Deputies charged Davis with Failure to Keep Right, DWI, & Refusal to Take a Breath Test. Davis was arraigned in the Town of Hamden Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $500 cash bail pending an appearance in the Walton Town Court on May 27th.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested and charged a Sidney Center man with being a Fugitive from Justice from the State of New Jersey on Monday. Deputies arrested 33 year old Dennis Lafferty Jr., on a Warrant and Bail Forfeiture issued by a New Jersey Superior Court in March 2014. Lafferty was originally charged in New Jersey with Theft, Lafferty, was already incarcerated in the Delaware County Jail on an unrelated charge, he is scheduled to be arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court This morning as a Fugitive from Justice.

The Chenango county Health Department will hold the next free rabies clinic in Bainbridge today. The clinic will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 at the Bainbridge village garage at 1 River Street, for dogs, cats & domesticated ferrets. More information is available at 337-1673 or co.Chenango.ny.us.

State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and his son Adam turned themselves into federal authorities today following a federal investigation. Dean Skelos has been arrested on a 6-count indictment charging him with extortion & conspiracy; he becomes the latest high-ranking New York Lawmaker facing charges, the most recent being his former assembly counterpart Sheldon Silver on federal corruption charges. Skelos has not yet given up his position as Senate leader. Deputy Senate Leader Tom Libous of Binghamton is currently recuperating from back surgery in Florida, he is also facing charges for allegedly lying to FBI Investigators regarding a position his son received at a Westchester law firm.

Jury deliberations continued again today in Schoharie County Court, in the 3rd Cal Harris murder trial. The latest trial lasted over 11 weeks, it had been moved to Schoharie County after 2 convictions in Harris' home county court in Tioga County, where the September 2001 Murder of Michelle Harris allegedly took place. Both previous convictions were overturned on appeal.

State Police responded to a Broome County 911 report of a fatal motor vehicle accident involving 2 race vehicles on the dirt track at the Broome Tioga Raceway in the Town of Lisle. The investigation determined that 38-year-old Michael Smith of Owego, was driving a 2000 Chevrolet Blazer when he lost control of his vehicle on a turn and rolled over coming to rest on the driver’s side. His vehicle was then struck by approaching racer 35 year old Mitchell Quail of Richfield, who was unable to avoid a collision. Smith suffered a head injury from the collision and was transported to Wilson Memorial Hospital were he died. An autopsy is pending; Mitchell Quail was not injured in the collision. The investigation is ongoing.

Chenango County District Attorney Joseph McBride has announced his campaign for re-election in the 2015 election cycle. McBride has served 16 years as District Attorney, he was first elected DA in 1999 and was re-elected in 2003, 2007 and 2011.

Temporary weight restrictions implemented in March on several Delaware county roads have been lifted, according to the Delaware county department of pubic works. County routes that have had the restrictions removed were routes 7, 10, 16, 20, 23,26 35 & 67.

Opening statements are scheduled to begin tomorrow at 9:30 in Schoharie County Court, in the 3rd murder trial of Cal Harris. 12 jurors & 6 alternates are set for the trial, where Harris is once again charged for the murder of his wife Michelle, around September 11th 2001 in Tioga County. Harris had 2 previous convictions overturned on appeal, this third trial was moved to Schoharie County after Harris’s attorneys asked for & received a change of venue.

The trial of State Senator Tom Libous is scheduled to begin July 13th. Libous was indicted last year for allegedly making a false statement to the FBI, when he was questioned about using his political influence to get his son Matthew a job at a Westchester County Law firm. Matthew Libous was found guilty last week on 3 counts of falsifying federal tax returns & he faces sentencing at a later date.

State Police from Sidney arrested 21 year old Dillon Kemmerer of Port Crane for Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and other vehicle and traffic law violations following a vehicle and traffic law stop when a Trooper observed he was driving a vehicle with a suspended registration while on State Route 41 in Afton. An investigation determined Kemmerer had several suspensions on his driver license and was driving without valid insurance. Also, after smelling marihuana, the Trooper found he unlawfully possessed a small amount inside the vehicle. Kemmerer was arraigned in town of Afton Court and sent to the Chenango County Jail on $5,000 bail

The chairman of the state Thruway Authority resigned, saying he will return to focus on his business interests. Howard Milstein, the billionaire New York City developer, is leaving the board. The 570-mile highway faces financial problems and is building a $3.9 billion new Tappan Zee Bridge between Westchester and Rockland counties. Milstein's departure won't impact the agency's operations, and they are in the process of finding a replacement to fill the unpaid post. An analysis by a consultant to the Thruway Authority estimates the highway system's revenue will be $67 million short of its needs in 2015 under the current toll rates.

The Otsego County Board of Representatives passed an annual budget plan at their most recent meeting this week. The budget spends 103 million dollars in the next fiscal year, and lowers the tax levy by 2% from last year's budget.

The attorney for State Senator Tom Libous has asked a federal judge in Westchester County to dismiss the case against him. Senator Libous was arraigned in July in a Federal court for 1 count of making false statements to the FBI in 2010; he is accused of scheming to get his son a job at downstate law firm in exchange for political considerations.   Libous denies the charges; his son is facing several charges, including filing fraudulent tax returns to the IRS.

1 of the winners in Tuesday night's voting is now calling for election spending reform, saying donors 'should be obligated to share where that money came from." State Assemblyman Gary Finch won re-election in the 126th Assembly District, Finch said his opponent outspent him with the help of a half million dollars from Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. Finch plans to introduce reform measures in the next legislative session.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office responded to a motor vehicle accident on Preston Center Road near County Road 4 in the Town of Preston Monday afternoon. Deputies reported that a 20-year-old male fell off of a moving motor vehicle; he was transported by helicopter to Wilson Hospital and is in critical condition. The accident is still under investigation.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office investigated a 1-car motor vehicle accident involving 3 occupants on State Highway 320, near the intersection of Tiffany Road in the Town of North Norwich Last night. The vehicle left the roadway and crashed into a ditch. Two occupants of the vehicle were transported by ambulance to the hospital. The other occupant was transported by helicopter to Wilson Hospital and is in critical condition. The accident is still under investigation.

The State DEC, Cornell University & the USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service have confirmed emerald ash borer Beatle in both Westchester and Broome counties. The beetle was found in DEC-deployed traps just north of the city of Peekskill in Westchester County, and southeast of Binghamton in Broome County. The DEC urges residents and municipalities to inventory their ash trees and inspect them for signs of infestation. Homeowners and municipalities can contact the nearest DEC Forestry Office for technical assistance and management recommendations to prepare for the latest threat. More information is available at DEC.Ny.Gov.

NEWS 10-8-14

Broome County officials announced that a prescription drop box has been placed in the lobby of the Broome County Office Building. People are encouraged to drop old, outdated prescription medications into the box to make sure they are disposed of properly and that they stay out of the hands of children and teenagers. The box in the Broome County Office building will be available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The   box in the lobby of the Broome County Sheriff’s office and is available for drop off from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.   Needles will not be accepted at the drop boxes.

State Police arrested 59-year-old Anthony Fischetti of Binghamton, for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, following a vehicle stop for having a rear license plate lamp that was not working, on State Route 17 in Windsor. An investigation accuse Fischetti of driving with a suspended driver's license in an uninspected vehicle, an inventory of the vehicle discovered 2.5 grams of heroin and oxycodone pills. Fischetti was arraigned at the Town of Sanford Court and remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set; he faces action in the Town of Windsor Court today.

Governor Cuomo said he will make several international trips in his second term, assuming he wins re-election in November. Cuomo, plans to embark upon trade missions to Canada, Mexico, Italy, Israel and China as part of an effort to help New York firms expand into international markets. Cuomo is up for re-election on Nov. 4. Polls show him with a big lead over his Republican challenger, Rob Astorino, the Westchester County executive.

An Otsego County free rabies clinic will be held for dogs, cats & Ferrets tonight, from 6:00 TO 8:00 PM. The Clinic will be held at the Otego Fire Department.

Agriculture agencies In Chenango county Will host an open house tonight at the 99 Broad Street agricultural Center in Norwich, showcasing 4-H, CCE, FSA & Soil & Water Conservation. The event will include rocket launching with 4-H, snacks with EAT SMART NY, Door Prizes & tours of the Historic building, from 6:00 TO 8:00 PM tonight.

State Senator Tom Libous & his attorney appeared in federal court this morning in White Plains to discuss various motions that the defense will file, including a motion to change the venue to a federal court room in the Northern district of the state.  Motions from Libous’s defense attorney are due by November 3rd; the prosecution has until l November 24th to respond.          Senator Libous is schedule back in court on January 9th where the judge will consider the motions.  Libous & his son Matthew were named in a federal indictment in July following allegations that Libous used his political influence to get his son a job with a Westchester county law firm. No trial date has been set.

Delaware County Deputies investigated a 2-car personal injury auto accident on State Highway 28 in the Town of Meredith Sunday.  Deputies reported that Kathleen Hibbard of Delhi crossed the double yellow line and entered the on-coming lane striking Thomas Nau of Roanoke Virginia.  Nau was transported to O’Connor hospital with minor injuries.  Hibbard was issued a traffic ticket for failure to keep right, she faces action in Town of Meredith Town Court on September 17th.

The O' Connor Hospital and Tri-Town Regional Hospital Boards of Trustees have appointed Carlton Rule as Chief Executive Officer of both institutions effective September 29th. Dr. Rule will succeed Dan Ayres, who announced in July that he is returning to West Virginia to become CEO of Summersville Regional Medical Center. Dr. Rule will continue as medical director of Bassett Healthcare Network health centers in the Delaware County communities of Delhi, Andes, Stamford and Walton.

Wind damage & downed trees were reported in Chenango County after a tornado warning last night, according to the National Weather Service. Damage was reported in the Afton and Bainbridge areas, NYSEG reported scattered power outages from last night’s storms across the Southern Tier, investigators from the National Weather Service are expected to check for a possible tornado touchdown last night in Chemung County.

Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate Zephyr Teachout will be speaking at the Foothills Performing Arts, on Market Street in Oneonta Saturday evening at 6:30 PM, she is looking to unseat incumbent Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo in the September 9th Primary. Republicans are represented by Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation of a Thursday morning 10:00am two car head-on collision on Cat Hollow Road in the Town of Colchester that claimed the life of one person and seriously injured four others. The accident claimed the life of 48-year-old William Sharpless of Nineveh and seriously injured four Bronx, NY, residents. Preliminary investigation revealed that Sharpless was struck head-on by a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by 30 year old Crest Wood of Bronx. Wood, 34 year old Alnie Chisholm, 19-year-old Georgette King and 21-year-old Yolanda Jones, all of Bronx, NY, were seriously injured and were taken to Westchester Medical Center. Deputies are asking any witnesses to call 746-2336.

The town of Unadilla Highway Department announced that Valley View Road would be closed today from 7:30 to 4:30. Crews are replacing a culvert near the intersection with Otsego County Route 1.

A federal judge rejected requests by attorneys for State Senator Tom Libous and his son Matthew for more information about the government's cases against them. U.S. District Judge Vincent Briccetti, denied motions that sought to force prosecutors to produce a "bill of particulars" that would provide more details about the charges. Thomas and Matthew Libous were indicted following a federal investigation, into allegations the senator helped his son get a job at a Westchester County law firm, and convinced a lobbying firm to pay part of his son's salary. Both have entered not guilty pleas.

Governor Cuomo announced $3.6 million was awarded, to support education and job-training programs that help low-income workers find employment. The funding allotment includes $270,000 for Workforce Investment Board programs for Otsego County. The funding is available to help with costs of uniforms, transportation or child-care for people on public assistance to find and achieve employment. People eligible for the program include unemployed adults between the ages of 18 and 24 and individuals receiving public assistance.

The Delaware County Local Development Corporation closed on 2 loans totaling $118,000. The loans were made to Natural Gardens LLC and the Andrew Hinkley Insurance Agency, which together anticipate creating approximately 22 new jobs in Delaware County over a 2-year period. Natural Gardens will turn 80 acres of land into a teaching farm & event center for parties, weddings and corporate events, which will be complete with a microbrewery. The Andrew Hinkley Insurance Agency, from Harpursville is moving to 53-55 Main Street in Sidney. More information is available at economic development programs in Delaware County at 746-8595.

Farmers Markets are now open to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to local residents. Delaware County senior citizens may take advantage of the Farmers Market Coupon Program, to receive twenty dollars worth of free New York State grown produce. The coupons can only be used for fresh fruits and vegetables at participating vendors. Delaware County Office for the Aging will coordinate the distribution of the booklets for households of eligible seniors. Go to co.delaware.ny.us

Republican gubernatorial candidate Rob Astorino unveiled a new ballot line called “Stop Common Core,” aiming to turn anger over the tougher school-testing standards into votes in November. Astorino has enough petition signatures to get the third-party line on the November ballot. It would give the Westchester County executive three lines on the November ballot, along with the Republican and Conservative parties’ lines. Astorino is running for governor against incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo

NEWS 7-2-14

An indictment was unsealed Tuesday morning in Federal Court, accusing State Senator Tom Libous of using his political influence to get his son a job with a law firm in Westchester County, following an investigation by the FBI and The IRS.   Libous is accused of giving   false statements to investigators, his son Matthew is charged with 6 counts of charges of impeding or obstructing the IRS and filing false tax returns. Following yesterdays’ arraignment in a federal court in Westchester County, Senator Libous released a statement: claiming that he has spent 26 years working for the people of his district, and he will continue to do so.   Libous claimed his innocence from the charge; his office issued a statement that Libous intends to run for re-election this year, as originally planned.

NYSEG Customers were without power earlier today, after heavy storms moved through Central New York yesterday afternoon. Falling trees, downed power lines and flooded roads were reported in Norwich and other area communities, 1 Norwich home was heavily damaged when a tree fell through it, according toe the Chenango county emergency operations center. About 3700 NYSEG Customers were without power during the height of the storm yesterday. The latest NYSEG Updates are available at outagemap.NYSEG.com.

The District 5 Ultimate Idol contest will get underway shortly, where area singers can showcase their abilities, with finalists possibly making onto the TV Talent show "The Voice” Lisa Jones of the Otsego County fair explains:

(Lisa Jones 7-2-14)

The fairs participating in the Ultimate Idol contest are Afton, Madison, Broome, Otsego & Delaware Caseloads continue to grow in family courts in New York State, and the lack of family court judges has caused a major backlog, but some relief is on the way. Family courts in 16 counties across the state will get help. Lawmakers recently approved a bill allowing for the addition of 20 new judges by 2015 and five more by 2016. Locally, a new family court judge will take office January 1, 2015 in Broome County, and a new family court judge will be seated in 2016 in Delaware County

Delaware county department of public works announced that oil & stone operations would begin on various county roads starting Monday July 7th. The work will begin on county road 18, followed by 33, 16, & 14. The 2nd round of oil & stone operations will then be performed on county roads 22, 23, 21, 17, 28 & 26, the operations should be concluded in 3 weeks, weather permitting. More information is available at 746-2128.

The National weather Service Storm prediction Center has designated the tri-county region as a slight chance for Severe Thunderstorms until 7:00 PM this evening. The primary threat will be for damaging winds, with flash floods, hail & isolated Tornadoes as a slight possibility, but which cannot be ruled out. Storms today may produce locally Heavy Rainfall due to the moist atmosphere. Stayed tuned to WCDO for the latest updates.

An indictment was unsealed Tuesday morning in Federal Court, accusing State Senator Tom Libous of using his political influence to get his son a job with a law firm in Westchester County. The Accusations follow an investigation conducted jointly by the FBI and The Internal Revenue Service since 2010, when Libous allegedly gave several false statements to investigators. Matthew Libous is charged with 6 counts. Of impeding or obstructing the IRS and filing false tax returns. The Arraignment is scheduled in Westchester County this afternoon.

Delaware County Sheriff's Investigators arrested 19-year-old Ismael Pizarro of Syracuse, on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Town of Delhi Court, for 1 count of 2nd degree Assault. Pizarro was charged in connection with an incident in the Delaware County Jail on Saturday where he allegedly assaulted another inmate, causing a physical injury. Pizarro remains incarcerated on the previous charge, & will be arraigned on this charge at a later time.

Governor Cuomo kicked off his re-election bid yesterday, touting his record on taxes, the economy and social issues. Cuomo offered a list of accomplishments during his first term, citing an improving upstate economy, ending the gridlock at the state Capitol and pushing progressive ideas that he said makes New York a leader in the nation. Cuomo got a higher minimum wage and the lowest middle-class income taxes since 1953. He said will push for better rights for immigrants and public financing of campaigns, as well as expanding infrastructure projects if re-elected. Cuomo faces Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino in November.

State troopers arrested 57-year-old David  Menard  of Bainbridge, for Possession of a Sexual Performance by a Child, and Promote a Sexual Performance by a Child.   Menard was arrested after a search warrant was conducted at his residence at the Maple Manor Apartments in the Village of Bainbridge; he was arraigned in the Town of Bainbridge Court and remanded to the Chenango County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash bail.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 22-year-old Peter Minko of Franklin for possession of a hypodermic instrument, following an incident that led to Minko being arrested for violating the terms of his probation.  County Probation Officers searched Minko’s home; they found hypodermic needles & drug paraphernalia, Minko will return to Franklin Town Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino accepted the Republican nod for governor yesterday, setting up a showdown with Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo in November. Astorino's nomination brought the two-day Republican Party convention to a close at the Hilton Westchester. Earlier in the day, GOP delegates backed Astorino's running mate, Chemung County Sheriff Christopher Moss, for lieutenant governor. The Class of 2014 will be honored at SUNY Oneonta’s 125th commencement this Saturday.  The college will host 3 ceremonies in the Dewar Arena of the Alumni Field House throughout the day, 1,513 students will be awarded degrees.

Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Rob Astorino has chosen Chemung County Sheriff Christopher Moss, as the candidate for Lieutenant Governor for this year’s election. The state Republican Convention kicked off today in Westchester County, the Democratic Convention will be held in Suffolk County next week.

Jury selection will now begin July 10th for the trial of Aaron Powell of Binghamton, who is accused of murdering his estranged wife and one of her friends in the family home. Jury selection was scheduled to start this Friday, but Powell’s attorney asked for an adjournment at Monday’s pre-trial hearing. Broome County Judge Cawley made the decision to allow the adjournment. Prosecutors accuse Powell of killing 35-year-old Christina Powell and 24-year-old Mario Masciarelli in March 2013, he is charged with 1st degree murder and 2 counts of 2nd degree murder.

A Chenango county Corrections officer has been charged with a felony for unauthorized use of a computer program. 25-year-old Ashley Stewart of Guilford was arrested after an investigation determined that she gained access to the sheriff’s office computer & a program that she was not authorized to use, while employed as a corrections officer. Stewart was charged with computer trespass, she was ticketed & released pending future court action.