WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-11-26

Binghamton Police responded Tuesday to a report of a male stabbed downtown, a 19-year-old male victim had sustained 2 significant stab wounds; one to his back and one in the upper leg, he was transported to a local hospital for treatment & emergency surgery. 2 suspects had fled the scene in a white sedan. 1 suspect was identified as 19 year old Christopher Ricketts of Binghamton, the 2nd suspect & driver of the vehicle in question was identified as 18 year old Jeremiah Coqmard of Johnson City. Both were charged with 1st degree Assault both were arraigned in Binghamton City Court and remanded to the custody of the Broome County Correctional Facility, anyone with information is asked to contact the Binghamton Police Detective Bureau by phone at 607-772-7080.

44 year old Richard Robinson of Holland Patent pleaded guilty to Attempted Promoting Prison Contraband in Delaware County Court Tuesday. Robinson was an inmate at the Delaware County Correctional Facility on April 17th, he had 2 small plastic bags with a white powdery residue in a brown paper bag, the substance tested positive for methamphetamine. The case was presented to the Delaware County Grand Jury, Robinson was indicted for Promoting Prison Contraband & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, sentencing will be on August 25th, Robinson is expected to be sentenced to 1.5 to 3 years in jail.

Broome County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 2 people in 2 separate motorcycle pursuits. On April 23, Broome County Sheriff’s Officers observed a motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed in Binghamton, Deputies attempted a traffic stop, but the motorcycle operator led them on a chase throughout the area, eventually crashing on Pierce Creek Rd. 56 year old Donald Stocks of Johnson City was charged with Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle, Obstructing Governmental Administration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and 10 additional traffic violations. In the 2nd Incident, on April 24th, Deputies observed a motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed in Binghamton, the operator failed to comply and fled into Kirkwood, Patrols terminated the pursuit, but a short time later, they found the bike disabled, 23 year old Osciano Swartz of Binghamton was taken into custody without further incident, he was charged with Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer, Reckless Endangerment, Obstructing Governmental Administration & 16 various traffic violations. Both men face court action shortly.

The FBI announced that they are now offering a $5 million reward for information regarding the murder of Shakeel Khan, outside his restaurant in Johnson City On March 30, 2019. Khan was shot and killed by a masked gunman outside his restaurant, on Riverside Drive, as he was closing up for the day.

State Police arrested 39 year old Joshua Skobern of Johnson City after an investigation into an arson at self-service car wash in Endicott. Skobern was charged with Criminal Mischief, 5th degree Arson after Troopers responded to Enviro Auto Wash on Watson Boulevard for damage that occurred on April 12, to a car wash payment kiosk. An investigation determined that Skobern punched the payment kiosk then struck it with a spray wand and then used a lighter to burn the face-plate, causing damage. Troopers located Skobern at his residence. He was taken into custody and was processed and was issued appearance tickets to the Union Town Court on April 28.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies season gets underway tonight on the road against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. The home opener is on Tuesday, April 7 against the Somerset Patriots at 6:07 pm; for Tickets, or more information, call (607)-722-3866, or go online at bingrp.com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-3-26

State Police are warning the public, about scams where individuals are falsely told they are “wanted on a warrant” and must pay money to avoid arrest. Scammers are contacting victims impersonating law enforcement officers, court officials, or government agencies, The victim is pressured to make payment using cash, gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or other non-traceable methods. On April 1, a victim was instructed to meet an individual who was purported to be a law enforcement officer to collect funds at a location in Bainbridge. This would have been the 3rd occasion for a sum of money to be over $100,000. After the victim handed over the cash, Troopers intervened and arrested Tushar Sharma of India for 2nd degree Grand Larceny, Scheming to Defraud & Conspiracy, he was arraigned and was released on his own recognizance, and is scheduled to appear at Bainbridge Town Court on April 20th.

Governor Kathy Hochul visited Johnson City yesterday, she called for removing the extra level of state oversight in order to speed up the construction of more housing:

(Hochul 4-4-26)

The Governor advocated for lower the costs of auto insurance, by removing widespread fraud from staged accidents & big payouts, the state is late on a new state budget again this year, a budget extender is in effect until Tuesday.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 54 year old Richard Karl of Johnson City for Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Official Misconduct. The Sheriff's Office received a report of a teacher having an inappropriate relationship with a student, at the Greene school District, Karl is accused of subjecting a student or students to contact potentially damaging to the physical, mental, and moral welfare of the child. Chenango County & Broome Sheriff's Office arrested 56-year-old Karl Monday, he was processed & was turned over the Chenango County Corrections Division to be held for arraignment. The investigation is still ongoing, and more charges may come in the future.

Helios Care announced that they will host their "Spring Camp Forget-Me Not", on May 3rd in Richmondville, to help area children deal with grief, Spokesperson Meggan Sageese explains:

(Meggan Sageese 4-15-25)

The program is free, but registration is requested by April 25th at helioscare.org.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-7-25

State Police are participating in a national crackdown on distracted driving as part of April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The enforcement effort, called Operation Hang Up, will include increased patrols and checkpoints targeting drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel, today through next Monday April 14th. Troopers will be using both marked & unmarked vehicles throughout the enforcement detail.

Jackie Rose of Coldwell Banker Timberland Properties Sidney Office has been elected as president of the New York State Association of Realtors, she told WCDO News what that entails:

(Jackie Rose 4-7-25)

Rose said that her term is 1 year, there are currently over 61,000 Realtors in New York State.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-7-25

33 year old Joseph Martino of Windsor is facing multiple charges after fleeing police in a stolen vehicle through Binghamton, Johnson City, Windsor and into Pennsylvania. On March 30, Broome County Sheriff’s Road Patrol observed a Mazda in Johnson City that had been reported stolen from Binghamton, a traffic stop was attempted and Martino failed to comply. Pennsylvania State Police successfully deployed tire deflation devices, Martino kept going, and he jumped out & attempted to flee on foot, a Broome County Deputy pursued and deployed a taser, & he was taken into custody. Martino was charged with Possession of Stolen Property in Pennsylvania, the local charges were Criminal Mischief, Reckless Endangerment, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer and over 20 Vehicle & Traffic Violations.

State Police arrested 33 year old Thomas Murray of Johnson City for possessing child pornography and possession of suspected illegal illicit substances. During the execution of a search warrant Friday in Johnson City, Murray was found to be in possession of images consistent with child sexual exploitation, illegal illicit substances and materials used for manufacturing methamphetamine. Murray has been charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine, Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child, Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child & Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Murray was processed and turned over to the Broome County Jail for Arraignment.

The Annual Recruit New York event will be held state wide on April 26 and 27th this year, where people can go to their local Fire Department's Open House, and maybe wind up joining the Fire Department, the Emergency squad or even work in their office on paperwork. Roger Barnhart of the Bainbridge Fire Department comments:

(Roger Barnhart 3-19-25)

Barnhart said that they are local to have other area Fire Department participate in the Recruit New York efforts, he can be contacted at 607-287-3170, more information is also available at recruitny.org

Village of Sidney announced the results of Tuesday's Village election for the Board of Trustees. Victor Tartaglia won one term with 65 votes, while Patricia Cristelli & Luther Higley each had 44 votes. Due to the tied votes for the 2nd Trustee Term there will be a Runoff Election held on Tuesday April 1st, in the Board room at the Civic Center at 21 Liberty Street from 12pm - 9pm. The Village of Unadilla announced that Kaleigh Barber & Crystal Lee Dimeo Johnson won seats on the Village board Tuesday.

Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 57 year old David Zimmer of Whitney Point following a high speed chase from Binghamton, onto I-88 into the Town of Fenton. on Tuesday,, a traffic stop was attempted on Zimmer, who's vehicle matched the description from an incident in Johnson city earlier. Zimmer was eventually stopped when his vehicle became disabled from a spike strip deployed by deputies & State Troopers. Zimmer faces 2 felony charges, 4 misdemeanors and 31 traffic violations following the high-speed pursuit, he was taken into custody, K9 units found cocaine in Zimmer's Vehicle, he was arraigned at & remains in custody at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

The Otsego County Solid Waste Department has invited local school district to once again participate in the annual Plastic Film Recycling Challenge, starting November 15th to next April. Kyle King of the Solid Waste Department explains:

(Kyle King 11-8-24)

King said that the plastic film they are collecting includes grocery bags, bread bags, bubble wrap, more information is available at 607-547-4256.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-8-24

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that the District Attorney’s Office will no longer participate in the Delaware County Drug Court Program. Smith stated that the motivation behind the creation of Drug Court was noble, to help low level, non-violent, drug users obtain the treatment they needed, but the State’s Bail Reform and Discovery Reform, has led to the portion of the population the program was meant to help, are no longer entering the criminal justice system. WCDO News will interview Smith for more on this story next week.

State Police arrested 55-year-old Daniel Erickson of Greene, for 2nd degree Rape with a victim under the age of 15, and endangering the welfare of a child, in Bath New York earlier this year. Erickson previously pleaded guilty in April to luring a 16-year-old child in Broome County after having multiple sexually charged texts, at the time he was the Johnson City Middle School Principal.

32 year old Evan Middleton of Johnson City, was sentenced today as a Second time Felony Offender to 12 years in State Prison followed by 3 years post-release supervision for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance On April 6, 2023, after the execution of a narcotics search warrant at Middleton's residence at 58 Massachusetts Ave in Johnson City, Middleton was found to be in possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine, with the intent to sell.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 8-14-24

Delaware County has received confirmation from the New York State Department of Financial Services that they will deploy staff to man a one-day resource center to assist Delaware County residents impacted by the storms on August 9th, this Saturday August 17, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Public Safety Building located at 280 Phoebe Lane in Delhi, Shelly Johnson Bennett of the Delaware County Planning Department told WCDO News what those who have had damage should bring:

(Shelly Johnson Bennett 8-14-24)

In addition to the resource center, residents and business owners can contact the Department's Disaster Hotline at 800-339-1759, the hotline will have extended evening hours until 8:00 PM through this Friday night. Additional information can be found at dfs.ny.gov/consumer/home_resources., for flood insurance information, contact FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program at (800) 621-3362 or floodsmart.gov.

41 year old Rasheed Crawford of Binghamton pleaded guilty to 2 counts of Robbery in Broome County Court. On April 8th, at the Mirabito Service Station on Court Street in Binghamton, and on April 10th, at EZ Food Mart on East Main Street in Endicott, Crawford forcibly stole lottery tickets and cash from store clerks while brandishing what looked like a handgun. Crawford is scheduled to be sentenced on November 8th, to 8 years in State Prison followed by three years of post-release supervision.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 27 year old Prince Johnson of Binghamton on an arrest warrant issued from the Town of Walton Court. On July 12th, the Broome County Sheriff’s Corrections Division notified the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office that Johnson was in their custody and had an active arrest warrant out of the Town of Walton Court, for the charge of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, for an incident on April 19th 2023, where Johnson was found to be in possession of a firearm. Johnson was subsequently arrested and brought to Delaware County Central Arraignment where he was later released on his own recognizance and directed to appear to the Town of Walton Court at a later date to answer for the charges.

Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force collected $89,000 and cocaine after conducting an investigation into the sale of cocaine on June 14th. The task force executed a search warrant at 47 St. Charles St. in Johnson City and a financial institution, 25 grams of Cocaine, packaging, scales, cutting agents and around $89,000 were recovered, Krystal Newborn was arrested and charged with several counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminally using drug paraphernalia, Newborn was arraigned at Central Arraignment and released pending further court action.

19 year old Qualem Hernandez of Binghamton, pleaded guilty last week in Broome County Court to Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Hernandez will be sentenced to 8 years in New York State Prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision when he is sentenced on September 13th. On April 12th, Hernandez opened fire in the direction of individuals in the City of Binghamton. The Binghamton Police Department investigated the shooting and with the assistance of visual recording devices and Street Cameras they were able to identify and arrest Hernandez.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-4-24

20 year old Aidan Demorier of Johnson City, was sentenced to 1 1/3 to 4 years in prison for Bail Jumping in Delaware County Court. On April 1, 2022, Demorier failed to appear in court after being released on his own recognizance, On March 21, the Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Demorier, An arrest warrant was issued, and he was taken into custody & he pleaded guilty & was sentenced yesterday.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 64 year old Richard Lamsen of Delhi following a harassment complaint in the Town of Delhi. On April 27th, Deputies were dispatched to a harassment complaint that had occurred at Curtis Lumber in Delhi, where Lamsen allegedly engaged in a physical altercation with the victim, which impeded the normal breathing of the victim. Deputies received a criminal summons from the Town of Delhi Court for Harassment and Criminal obstruction of breathing, he was released to appear before the Town of Delhi Court on a later date to answer the charges.

32 year old Evan Middleton of Johnson City, pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance as a Second Felony Offender in Broome County Court. On April 6, 2023, Middleton was found to have 10 ounces of fentanyl at his residence during the execution of a warrant. Middleton will receive 8 years in State Prison followed by 3 years post-release supervision. He is scheduled to return back to court for sentencing on September 6th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29 year old Mercedes Torres of Oneonta on an Arrest Warrant for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Aggravated Unlicensed Operator and other related charges, stemming from a traffic stop investigation on April 1st. Deputies received notification Wednesday from State Police that they had Torres in custody for charges following a traffic stop and for an Arrest Warrant in Davenport. Torres was processed by State Police & was turned over to Delaware County Sheriff’s Office Deputies for the Arrest Warrant.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 5-30-24

On Wednesday, State Police, members of the Broome County Sheriff's Department, members of the Department of Transportation, family and friends joined the Skinner family remembering Trooper Christopher Skinner who was killed 10 years ago while conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 81 in the town of Chenango. Trooper Skinner was remembered at the site where he was struck on Interstate 81 between exits 7 and 8, he had been patrolling a construction zone and had made a traffic stop. He was in the process of interviewing the operator when a passing vehicle veered from the driving lane to intentionally strike Trooper Skinner. Trooper Skinner was killed instantly; he was 42 years old and a 13-year veteran, Almond Upton was convicted in 2016 of Murder in the first degree and died in prison in 2018.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 4-17-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Gerald Johnson of Oneonta on an Sealed Indictment Arrest Warrant issued by the Delaware County Grand Jury. On April 16th, the Delaware County Criminal Investigations Unit and Road Patrol division, Otsego County Sheriff’s Office and State Police responded to a residence in the Town of Oneonta, Johnson was located and arrested in Lantern Hill Mobile Home Park in the Town of Oneonta. Johnson was charged with 3 counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, 2 counts of Grand Larceny, and 1 count of Petty Larceny, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $30,000.00 cash bail Or $100,000.00 secured bond. Johnson is scheduled to appear in the Delaware County Court at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in identifying a white truck regarding 2 separate burglaries to a barn on Bryce Road in the Town of Sanford. Video of the truck in question can be viewed at the Broome County Sheriff's You Tube page. On March 19th, a rust-colored 1930 Farmall tractor was stolen, on April 10th, an orange Moped, Blue Yamaha dirt bike and various tools were stolen, the same white truck was at both burglaries. Anyone with any information is

asked to call 607-778-1196.

Dave Johnson of Unadilla has organized a meeting in Unadilla tonight called “Introduction to Preparing for the Inevitable”, with a series of experts on what to do before your final days, Johnson told WCDO who the speakers will be:

(Dave Johnson 4-17-24)

The meeting will be held at the Unatego Elementary School Cafeteria from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-11-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29 year old Elizabeth Gajdzis of New Berlin for 2nd degree Burglary, 3rd & 4th degree Grand Larceny, Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle. On March 30th, The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Division received a complaint of a stolen vehicle from a residence in the Town of New Berlin. Gajdzis is accused of stealing the vehicle, On April 1, she contacted a member of the Detectives Division regarding a separate matter and agreed to meet the Detective, she was arrested, was processed, arraigned & was remanded back to the correctional on cash bail and is scheduled to reappear in the Town of New Berlin Court at a later date.

State Police issued more than 21,500 tickets during this year’s 'Operation Hang Up' traffic enforcement period, from April 1 to April 8th. Police targeted drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel, as statistics nationwide show that 3,308 people were killed in crashes caused by distracted driving in 2022. During the April 2023 Operation Hang Up campaign, State Police in Troop C issued 1,529 tickets.

The Binghamton Police Department arrested a 17-year-old from Johnson City for leaving the scene of a pedestrian hit-and-run Tuesday afternoon. Binghamton Police responded at Court and Water streets for a report of a person who was crossing the road being struck by a vehicle, the victim was a 45 year old man from Binghamton, He was transported to an area hospital w& was in critical condition. Detectives found the suspect and their vehicle later, he was arrested & was released on an appearance ticket.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 4-11-24

40 year old Jesse Barnum of Endicott was arrested in Pennsylvania on multiple felony charges for failing to register under the Sex Offender Registration Act. Barnum was found hiding under a blanket in the rear of a van, he was arrested and extradited to appear in Broome County and Town of Union courts. On Friday, April 1, 2024, members of the Broome County Sheriff’s Warrants Division and the United States Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force traveled to Scranton area, Barnum was wanted 2 separate counts of Failure to Register Under the Sex Offender Registration Act, plus Bail Jumping.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County Announced that their 2024 Spring Plant Sale is underway, Sarah Green of Hospice told WCDO News about this year's fundraising efforts:

(Sarah Green 4-10-24)

Orders Can Placed through April 23nd – Voucher orders will be ready by or around April 25th; more information is available by calling Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County at 607-334-3556 during normal business hours.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 4-10-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 33 year old Eric Doherty of Unadilla on 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, after Doherty was stopped in Bainbridge, deputies found Fentanyl and Methamphetamine. Doherty was processed and was released on an appearance ticket. Doherty is to appear in the Town of Bainbridge Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 44 year old Robert Powell of Hamden following a traffic stop in the Town of Bovina. A County Deputy observed a vehicle speeding last Wednesday on County Highway 6 in the Town of Bovina, a traffic stop was conducted and Powell was found to be driving with his driving privileges suspended, he was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Unlicensed Operator and Speeding. Powell was issued an Appearance Ticket for Town of Bovina Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-1-24

Broome County District Attorney's office announced the conviction of Carnell McCarden of Johnson City, who pleaded guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon. On April 18, 2023, Broome County Special Investigations Unit executed a search warrant at 57 Miriam Street in Johnson City where McCarden was found to be in possession of weapons, McCarden will be sentenced to 5 years in New York State Prison and 5 years post-release supervision. Sentencing is scheduled for July 24th in Broome County Court.

Dave Johnson of Unadilla has organized a meeting in Unadilla on April 17th, called "Introduction to Preparing for the Inevitable", with a series of experts on what to do before your final days:

(Dave Johnson 4-17-24)

The meeting will be held April 17th at the Unatego Elementary School Cafeteria from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

Broome County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 49 year old Christopher Merwin of Chenango Forks following a domestic incident in the Town of Chenango. Deputies responded to a residence on Marshman Road, the victim informed patrols of repeated incidents of verbal and physical disputes, including threats on her life with a firearm, deputies submitted a request for an Extreme Risk Protection Order, which was granted by the Town of Chenango Court. While serving the order of protection, deputies located a loaded 9mm “ghost” handgun and methamphetamines, Merwin was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Harassment, he was taken into custody without incident, arraigned at Central Arraignment and remains in custody at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-28-24

32 year old Nicholas Durbin of Deposit appeared for a conference in Delaware County Court on Tuesday and pleaded guilty to Attempted Sexual Abuse. Durbin was accused of having inappropriately touched a 4-year-old child in the Town of Deposit between February 1, 2022, and April 25, 2022, while in a relationship with the child’s mother, he was sentenced to one- and one-half years in state prison, to be followed by three years of post-release supervision, he was also ordered to register as a sex offender upon his release from state prison.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-23-24

Craig Ross Jr. pleaded guilty Wednesday to 1st-degree kidnapping and predatory sexual assault of a child, according to the Saratoga County district attorney, and faces 47 years to life in prison. Ross abducted 9 year old Charlotte Sena on September 30th from Moreau Lake State Park, as she was riding her bicycle while picnicking with her family, she disappeared and a search led to Ross 2 days later when state police troopers and an FBI SWAT team stormed a camper Ross was staying in. Rescuers found the girl alive in a cabinet. The guilty plea comes prior to a trial that was scheduled in April, Ross will be sentenced on April 17.

Karim Dobson of Johnson City pleaded guilty as a second felony offender to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in Broome County Court. On October 17, Dobson was found in possession of more than 4 ounces of fentanyl following a traffic stop on I-81 in the Town of Kirkwood. Dobson admitted to possession with the intent to sell, he is due back for sentencing on May 12, where he is expected to be sentenced to 6 years in State Prison, followed by 3 years of post-release supervision.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce is accepting nomination s for the 2024 Business of the Year Award, the Eugene A. Bettiol Jr. Distinguished Citizen Award, and the 2024 Breakthrough Award. Nominations must be received by 3/15/24. The Nomination can be made online at form.jotform.com, the annual dinner & awards Ceremony will be held on April 25th at the Otesaga Hotel in Cooperstown.

State Police responded early Monday morning to a domestic dispute at 10 Debra Lee Drive, Apalachin. Troopers and EMS personnel provided lifesaving treatment to an injured male and female at the scene. The female died as a result of injuries sustained during the domestic dispute. The injured male was transported to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City, where he currently remains in stable condition. This incident remains under investigation.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 26 year old Joshua Hunt of Unadilla for failing to abide by the State Sex Offender Registry. Hunt was charged with Failure to Notify a Change of Address & Failure to Update Registry Photograph, as required by sex offenders. Hunt relocated from his residence in the Town of Unadilla and did not notify authorities or give an updated photo within the required time frame. An arrest warrant was issued & Hunt was located by State Police and turned over to the Otsego County Sheriff's Office, he was arraigned and was released on his own recognizance.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-13-24

Broome County Sheriff’s deputies responded Sunday to a report of a fight between two males with weapons at a Starbucks in the Town of Dickinson. Upon arrival, responding deputies found that the two men had been separated, 59 year old Daniel Ackley of Johnson City had been following a truck that he suspected was tailgating his wife earlier, as the other driver was placing an order at the drive-thru, Ackley pulled up beside and began yelling at the driver and threatened him with a hatchet, threatening decapitation, the other driver pulled to the front parking lot and exited his vehicle holding a hammer, Ackley struck the victim in the leg with his vehicle. The victim was then able to retreat inside while Ackley remained in the parking lot. Ackley was arrested without incident and charged with Menacing & Reckless Endangerment, he was processed and released on an appearance ticket to answer for his charges at the Town of Dickinson Court at a later date.

Delaware County Board OF elections announced that February 14th is the last day to make any changes to your party enrollment prior to the Presidential Primary election in April or the local, state and federal Primary election on June 25th. Any change of enrollment made between February 15th & July 5th will be effective July 5th. More information is available at elections.ny.gov, In-Person at Delaware County Board of Elections, 97 Main St, Delhi, OR at delcony.us/departments or 607-832-5321.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 1-30-24

Jerell Thompson of Binghamton, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon. On December 23, 2023, Thompson was found to be in possession of a loaded Handgun after a traffic stop by State Police. Thompson will be sentenced to 5 years in New York State Prison and 5 years post-release supervision. Sentencing is scheduled for April 24, 2024, in Broome County Court.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that Reid Brignac returns as manager, along with Pitching Coach AJ Sager, Hitting Coach Darin Everson, and Bench Coach Mariano Duncan. Juan Loyo joins the staff as the team's development coach. The Rumble Ponies made it to the Eastern League Championship Series in 2023, they open the 2024 at Mirabito Stadium against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats on Friday, April 5. Season Tickets and flex booklets are currently on sale at Mirabito Stadium, on the phone at (607)-722-FUNN, or on our website www.bingrp.com.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-30-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded last Thursday to a domestic incident in progress in the Town of Meredith. Upon arrival one of the individuals involved was identified as 32- year-old Edward Reed of Meredith, a tinfoil containing a white powdery substance along with a scale was discovered within the residence, Deputies charged Reed with criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of drug paraphernalia, . Reed was released on appearance tickets returnable at a later date to the Meredith Town Court.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-16-24

Governor Hochul gave the Executive Budget presentation this morning in Albany, she talked about her emphasis on assisting law enforcement, Education, addressing Mental Health issues and economic development, among other topics:

(Hochul 1-16-24)

The proposal increases spending by 4.5% for a total of 233 Billion Dollars, Lawmakers have until April 1st to get a deal finished by the beginning of the state's fiscal year.

Broome County District Attorney Paul Battisti announces the guilty plea of Rajee Al-Mashni for a fatal hit and run that occurred in 2023 in Johnson City. Al-Mashni pleaded guilty to Manslaughter and Driving While Ability Impaired by Combined Influence of Drugs and Alcohol and Attempted Assault, in Broome County Court, for fatally striking Elizabeth Atkinson with a vehicle at the Oakdale Commons on March 5th, 2023. Al-Mashni also entered a guilty plea to Attempted Assault, for a June 2022 motor vehicle accident in Binghamton which left several people seriously injured. Al-Mashni will be sentenced to 5 to 15 years in State prison when he is sentenced April 9th.

Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 "Meet the Rumble Ponies" dinner on April 3 at the Holiday Inn Binghamton. The event starts at 5:30 pm. with the entire Opening Day roster of your 2024 Rumble Ponies available for autographs and photographs. Then, bid on an array of amazing auction items, with proceeds to benefit the Rumble Ponies Foundation. Tickets are available for purchase until March 29 online at bingrp.com, by calling 607.722.3866, or by visiting the Mirabito Stadium Administrative Offices,

The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years. The Next Blood Drive Will Be Held Today In Walton from 1:30 pm. - 6 pm., Pines Brook Church, to make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-29-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 48 year old Aaron Vandusen of Unadilla for Criminal Use of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, & Criminal Contempt. On November 29th, Otsego County 911 received a call regarding a male subject who had suffered a gunshot wound in a vehicle, it was determined that Vandusen had fashioned a homemade pistol even though he was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a previous felony conviction, he was attempting to enter a vehicle and dropped the homemade firearm which discharged in to his abdomen & groin area. He was taken to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City. State Police and Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched Vandusen's residence Thursday for an unrelated complaint, he was arraigned in Otsego County Centralized Arraignment and released on his own recognizance pending future court action.

State Lawmakers will get back to work in January in Albany, after Governor Hochul delivers the State of the State Address & the State Budget proposal, local Assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO News what he predicts for 2024 in Albany:

(Joe Angelino 12-29-23)

In Addition to a host of proposed legislation, lawmakers will attempt to reach an agreement on the State Budget by the April 1st Deadline.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Laura Juraska on an outstanding warrant for violating probation on a 2nd degree Grand Larceny charge. Juraska is described as a white female, 5'7" tall, 140 pounds, with red hair & blue eyes, she was last known to frequent the North Broad Street area of the Village of Johnson City. Anyone with information on the location of Juraska can file tips electronically using gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-15-23

The Otsego County Solid Waste Department, Otsego County Conservation Association, and Casella announced that the Film Plastic Recycling Challenge is back, where area schools recycle plastic bags and other plastic film items which cannot be recycled through regular recycling programs. The challenge focuses on collecting clean, dry, plastic film to help keep it out of the landfill, it begins today until April 24th, Winners will be announced on Earth Day in April.

The Delaware County IRT Military Medical program concluded on Wednesday, after 9 days of services offered for free at the Walton High School. The military was able to serve 1,079 patients, performing 7,181 procedures for a total cost savings to the community of $585,141.81. Delaware County Director of Planning & Watershed Affairs Director Shelly Johnson Bennett said that Delaware County will apply again in the future to bring these needed Medical, Dental, Vision & Veterinary services back to the County.

The Oneonta RC Flyers will have an open house Sunday from 12:00 Noon until 4:00 PM in Milford. The event will be held at the Milford BOCES Field, there will be demonstrations of a variety of radio controlled aircraft, more information is available at ONEONTARCFLYERS.Com.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 7-21-23

43 year old Thomas Stanley of New Berlin appeared in Delaware County Court Thursday & was arraigned on a sealed indictment. The 6 count indictments was unsealed, the Indictment alleges that Stanley intended to sell the heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine that was discovered in the trunk of a car on April 30, 2023, in the Village of Sidney. After being arraigned, Stanley was released from custody under the supervision of the Delaware County Probation Department, each of the felonies carry a maximum 9-year sentence. The Village of Sidney Police arrested Stanley Thursday for 3 counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance.

The Delaware County IRT will be held July 11th through the 19th at the Walton High school, featuring a variety of free services for Medical, Dental, Veterinary as well as mental health, Director of Delaware County Planning & Watershed Affairs, Shelly Johnson-Bennett said that most of the services are available without an appointment, but one service requires registration:

(Shelly Johnson-Bennett 7-5-23)

WCDO News conducted a full interview with Shelly Johnson Bennett recently about the event, you can hear that full interview following the 6:00 PM news tonight on WCDO.

58 year old Phillip Peterson was indicted by a Delaware County Grand Jury on 2 counts of attempted assault, for allegedly attacking his wife in the town of Franklin by punching her in the chest after open heart surgery & by throwing a TV at her in April. Peterson will be arraigned on the charges on July 10th.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-1-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Tyler Newman of Unadilla following a motor vehicle accident on April 24, 2023 in the Town of Unadilla. Newman was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Aggravated DWI, Refusal to Take Breath Test, Speed not reasonable and prudent among other charges, on County Highway 3 in Unadilla. Newman will appear in Town of Unadilla Court on May 8th.

On April 22, Broome County Sheriff’s Office patrol responded to motor vehicle accident at State Route 12 and 12A in the Town of Chenango, 50 year old Jennifer Chamberlain of Binghamton was talked out of the vehicle by a deputy as gas was spilling onto the pavement, fire fighters responded to the crash and leak. Chamberlain attempted to make a turn, but veered wide left, crossing lanes of traffic. Her vehicle jumped over a raised curb and continued over a mulch bed striking several signposts and bushes before coming to a stop in the gas station parking lot. The broken signposts had ruptured the vehicle’s gas tank. Chamberlain's BAC was .27%, over 3 times the legal limit, she was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Aggravated DWI with a BAC of 0.18 or more, Speed Not Reasonable & Prudent, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation among other charges, she was arraigned and released on an appearance ticket for Town of Chenango Court.

Attorney General Letitia James announced that 340 firearms were turned in at a community gun buyback event hosted by her office and the Johnson City Police Department. Attorney General James' office held 9 gun buyback events statewide with more than 3,000 guns turned in, including 185 assault rifles, 1,656 handguns, and 823 long guns. In Johnson City, they received 25 assault rifles, 169 handguns, and 114 long guns.