WCDO Radio News

State Police responded to a 2 vehicle fatal collision on I-88 Wednesday night in the Town of Colesville. 23 year old David Murrer of Harpursville struck another motor vehicle, driven by 64 year old Synthia Baciuska & occupied by her husband 67 year old Lynn Baciuska both of Afton. The Baciuska vehicle left the roadway and overturned, Mr. Baciuska was ejected & was declared dead at the scene, Mrs. Baciuska was transported to Wilson Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. Murrer suffered minor injuries and refused treatment at the scene, he was charged with Vehicular Manslaughter and DWI & was arraigned in Town of Colesville Court & he was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility on $2,500 cash or $5,000 bond. Anyone who may have information regarding this accident or witnessed this incident is requested to contact State Police at 775-1241. The investigation is continuing.

Broome County District Attorney Steve Cornwell announced on Thursday that there have been 76 confirmed overdose deaths in Broome County this year. Of the 76 deaths, The average age was 37, 63% were male; 37% were female, 90% of the deaths were attributed to heroin or opioids; 10% to other drugs.

32-year-old Jacob Fowlston of Norwich was arrested by Norwich Police Wednesday afternoon and charged with a hate crime, following an alleged assault on December 24th on Fair Street in Norwich. Fowlston is accused of making racial slurs at the victim before striking him. Fowlston was arraigned & faces a felony hearing on Tuesday in Norwich City Court.

A memorial ceremony will be held tonight in Norwich for Norwich High School Class of 2016 Graduate Savannah Williams, who died in a 2-vehicle crash in Geneseo Tuesday. Kaitlyn Jackson was a friend of Williams and was also class president, she told WCDO News that tonight’s Memorial would begin at 6:00 PM at the Norwich High School Track:

(Kaitlyn Jackson 12-22-16)

Jackson said that the event would then move over the Chenango County Fair grounds. Police in Geneseo said that Williams was a current SUNY Geneseo student, she drove her car into the path of the tractor-trailer, Williams was pronounced dead at the scene.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 42 year old Daniel White of Delhi Wednesday on charges of DWI, driving with a BAC of .08% or greater, speed not reasonable and imprudent, failure to stop for a stop sign, and for making an unsafe lane change following an investigation of a 1 car accident at Brick House Hill Road and County Highway 12 in Davenport. White allegedly failed to stop for a stop sign due to excessive speed, he left the roadway and struck a utility pole. White was released on tickets returnable to Davenport Town Court at a later date.

2 people have been arrested after State Police discovered a meth lab on State Route 206 in the Town of Triangle Tuesday. Police arrested 37 year old Thomas Parker of Berkshire and 35 year old Stephanie Keller of Whitney Point, Police seized methamphetamine oil, marijuana plants, 1 active & 2 spent one-pot methamphetamine labs, hazardous materials & $1,970 in cash, Both have been charged with criminal possession of controlled substance and unlawful manufacturing of meth, They were arraigned in the Town of Triangle Court and taken to the Broome County Jail without bail.

State Police arrested 52-year-old Richard Fidurski of Binghamton for Promoting a Sexual Performance of a Child and Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child, after an investigation by the members of the New York State Police Computer Crime Unit. Fidurski was arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail with no bail set. His next court date is pending.

62-year-old Almond Upton of Florida was sentenced to life in prison without of parole for deliberately running down State Trooper Christopher Skinner on I-81 in 2014. Upton was sentenced today in Broome County Court by Judge Joseph Cawley, following the 1st degree murder conviction for deliberately crossing several lanes to strike Trooper Skinner while he was conducting an unrelated routine traffic stop, at an excessive speed.

Job seekers and students are invited to attend the Second Annual College & Community Job Fair today in Norwich, Steve Craig of Commerce Chenango explains:

(Steve Craig 11-10-16)

The event is presented by Commerce Chenango and Morrisville State College, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PMat Morrisville’s Norwich Campus at 20 Conkey Avenue in Norwich.

Delaware County Public Health, SUNY Delhi and A.O. Fox and O’Connor Hospitals will be hosting an event on campus at the Okun Theatre in Farrell Hall at SUNY Delhi today at 12:30 pm, entitled “Painting SUNY Delhi Yellow Day”. the event is designed to help prevent the spread of the Human Papillomavirus. Nicole Blanchard of DCPH explains:

(Nicole Blanchard 11-10-16)

The event features cervical cancer survivor Christine Baze, who raises awareness regarding the HPV virus, through her “Yellow Umbrella” organization.

Tomorrow is Election Day, and beyond the Presidential race, there are races of local importance in the Tri County Area. The U.S. SENATE SEAT for New York features incumbent Democrat Charles Schumer against vs. Republican Wendy Long.

In the House of Representatives 19th Congressional District Race to replace Chris Gibson, Republican John Faso is against Democrat Zephyr Teachout.

In the 22nd congressional district Race To Replace Richard Hanna, a three way battle exists between Republican Claudia Tenney, Democrat Kim Meyers & 3rd party Candidate Martin Babinec.

Commerce Chenango & SUNY Morrisville will hold the Second Annual College & Community Job Fair, in Norwich this Thursday. Commerce Chenango President Steve Craig comments:

(Steve Craig 11-7-16)

The event will be held at the Morrisville State College Norwich Campus from 9:00 to 3:00 PM at on the first floor of 20 Conkey Ave. in Norwich.

Shortly after midnight Friday, Delaware County Deputies investigated a 1 car fatal motor vehicle accident on County Highway 33 in Bloomville. A 17 year old female lost control of the vehicle and left the roadway, the vehicle continued over the embankment, rolled over and struck a tree. The driver of the vehicle died at the scene as a result of injuries suffered in the crash. There is no indication at this time that alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash, a blood sample was secured from the driver for toxicology analysis. The accident remains under investigation.

On Friday, The Broome County Sheriff’s department responded to a Motel in the town of Dickinson following a call for a medical emergency of a patient who stopped breathing an adjacent room. Deputies found 30 year old Brett Seymour unresponsive, administered Narcan, eventually EMS responded & declared that Seymour was deceased. In the room, Police found crack, cocaine, heroin; they arrested Rayshawn Thompson of Binghamton, Nicole Mills of Windsor, & Tessa Rivera of Elmira on a variety of charges. The Broome County Sheriff’s department has set up a tip line at 778-1196.

The Broome County Sheriff Department is investigating a fatal 2-vehicle car vs. motorcycle accident Monday afternoon. Deputies reported that a Jeep Cherokee, operated by 28 year old Adam Alexander of Afton, struck a motorcycle operated by 36 year old Jason Smith of Binghamton, at State Route 235 & State Route 7. Smith suffered traumatic injuries and was transported to Wilson Hospital where he died from his injuries. Alexander was chargedd with Vehicular Manslaughter & DWI, he was arraigned in Town of Colesville Court & he was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility on $5,000 cash bail.

Several area fire companies responded to a structure fire at 211 Otsego County Highway 8 in Gilbertsville this morning. The fire was toned out at about 10:20, with Firefighters from throughout the Tri County region responding.

The 2016 Great New York State Fair has generated the highest level of attendance in its 175-year history, shattering numerous records over the course of its twelve-day run. A record 1,096,524 visitors passed through the Fair's redesigned main gate, beating the previous record by about 85,000 over 2001.

Tri-Town Regional Hospital in Sidney announced that they would hold a health fair on September 24th. Spokesperson Amy Beveridge explains:

(Amy Beveridge 9-6-16)

Beveridge said that the event will run from10:00 to 2:00 outside the hospital grounds, weather permitting, in case of inclement weather, it will be moved indoors.

A small plane crashed in the woods at Chenango Valley State Park Sunday morning after having engine failure. The crash happened Sunday at around 10:45 AM. The pilot lost control shortly after takeoff, he was not injures. State police, State Park Police and the Broome County Sheriff's Department all responded. The Investigation is continuing.

William Canney of Binghamton was arrested Friday by Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for Menacing of a Police Officer. The Sheriff’s Office and State Police responded to a shots fired complaint on Hotchkiss Road in the Town of Greene, Canney is alleged to have pointed a loaded shotgun at a deputy, who drew his weapon and was able to deescalate the situation without any shots fired. Canney was arraigned it the Town of Greene Court and ordered to the Chenango County Jail on $2000 bail and $5000 bond and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Greene Court at a later date.

Delaware County Deputies arrested 26 year old Jeremy Aubry of Middletown, for Attempted Burglary, Attempted Robbery, Criminal Trespass, and Criminal Mischief & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Aubry is accused of attempting to make entry into a house on State Highway 30 in the Town of Middletown, where he attempted to rob the homeowner of a purse. Aubry was found in possession of pills and kicked a window of a patrol car causing damage. He was arraigned in the Town of Middletown Court and sent to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail. He is to return to the Town Middletown Court at a later date.

The federal government has designated 24 New York counties as natural disaster areas following a severe summer drought that has adversely impacted some water supplies and farms. Farmers in the affected areas may be eligible for assistance, including emergency loans, from the federal government. The state will conduct on-site assessments of farms affected by the drought as well, Cuomo’s office said. 15 counties declared as the primary natural disaster areas cover, 1 of the contiguous counties named in the declaration is Broome County. Many other counties locally & into the North Country are requesting primary disaster declarations.

Governor Cuomo announced that the Great New York State Fair will hold a special celebration in honor of the Maine-Endwell Little League team, which completed an undefeated season this past weekend by winning the Little League World Series. The Governor declared Thursday, September 1 “Champions Day” at the Fair in honor of the team, which will be congratulated for its victory at a special ceremony on Chevy Court. Free tickets to the Fair are available to members of the Maine-Endwell community to take part in the celebration. The Maine-Endwell team is the first New York team to win the Little League World Series since 1964.

The Village of Sidney Police Department executed a search warrant Tuesday at 17 Cartwright Avenue, following an investigation into the sale of illegal narcotics in the Village. During the search, Cocaine, Marijuana, and drug paraphernalia were seized. 25-year-old Emery Rivera-Estrella of Sidney was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell & Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. She was arraigned in the Village of Sidney court where she was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond. More charges are pending. The Sidney Police Department was assisted by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office with K9 Ozzie & the State Police during the execution of the search warrant.

The next Otsego county free rabies clinic will be held today, in Oneonta. The clinic will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Neahwa Park for dogs & cats that are at least 3 months old.

It will be another full day of activities at the Delaware County Fair Thursday. Spokesman John Jackson comments:

(John Jackson Thursday)

The Delaware County Fair runs through Saturday night at the Fairgrounds in Walton.

Governor Cuomo announced the first $18 million of awards of the Southern Tier Agricultural Industry Enhancement Program, which helps farmers and agribusinesses expand and improve their operations, while promoting the responsible use and protection of the State’s natural resources. In this first round, 214 projects were awarded funding in 11 counties throughout the Southern Tier. Locally, Broome, Chenango & Delaware counties will get over 4 million dollars in Grants through the program.

Governor Cuomo announced that more than $50 million has been awarded to the state’s 59 county-based Area Agencies on Aging to help New York’s seniors remain in their homes and communities of choice. The funding will help maximize independence and prevent advanced and more expensive levels of care for seniors. Nearly 70,000 New York seniors will benefit from the program; Southern Tier seniors will receive $2,764,112. The complete list of awards by county is available on the New York State Office for the Aging website.

State Police arrested 37-year-old Alexandria Duval of Hawaii for aggravated DWI with a B.A.C. result of .26%, more than 3 times the legal limit, plus other traffic violations, after Duval allegedly failed to keep right & almost struck a New York State Police vehicle on State Route 23, in Village of Stamford. Duvall was also observed driving too closely to another vehicle & crossing the centerline. Duval was arraigned in the Town of Stamford and was remanded to the Delaware County jail in lieu of $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 property bond, pending court action on August 23.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies announced the arrest of 3 people Saturday, for allegedly smuggling drugs into the Delaware county jail. 21-year-old Rosemarie Palmerini of Fleischmanns is accused of bringing a quantity of heroin into the Delaware County Correctional Facility during visitation Saturday morning, with an inmate, 39-year-old Christopher Fairbairn of Margaretville. Both were arraigned in the Town of Stamford Court & were remanded on cash bail, to the Delaware County Jail on Bail pending court proceedings Thursday. On Monday 34-year-old Jennifer Myers-Finch of Arkville was also charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, and Promoting Prison Contraband, for allegedly coordinating the jail visitation between Palmerini and Fairbairn. Myers-Finch was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $30,000 cash bail.

Today is Day 2 of the Delaware County Fair in Walton, Spokesman John Jackson told WCDO News about some of today's activities:

(John Jackson 8-16-16)

Jackson said that last night's Demolition Derby was a sell out, other anticipated events include the new Hay Hauling contest Friday and the Country Music Concert featuring Frankie Ballard & the Lax on Saturday night.

The Binghamton Senators Season is getting closer to starting at the Floyd Maines Broome County Memorial Arena in the fall, spokesman Rob Lippolis said that Tickets packages are on sale:

(Rob Lippolis 8-16-16)

More information is available at 722-SENS or Binghamton Senators.com.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office reported that 24 year old Ryan Sutcliffe of Cumberland, Rhode Island was sleeping in his tent when a large tree limb, broke off & landed on him, at about 12:45 AM Saturday at the Grand Slam Camp Ground on County Highway 18 in the town of Morris. Sutcliffe was taken to Chenango County Memorial Hospital in Norwich where he was declared deceased. The investigation is continuing.

The NTSB, State Troopers, Forest Rangers, County Fire Coordinators and several area fire departments responded tot eh report of a small aircraft crash near German Hollow Road in the Town of Smithville. 3 passengers and 1 pilot were aboard the single-engine plane when it landed into a wooded area near a Buddhist temple. All four individuals who were suffering from shock and minor injuries were pulled from the wreckage by Monks of the temple, shortly before the aircraft burst into flames, destroying the plane. All 4 were taken to Wilson Hospital in Johnson City for non-life threatening injuries. The investigation is continuing.

The Chenango County Agriculture Development Council is participating with their “Farm to Fork, Taste of Chenango” program at the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Exhibition Hall today, from 12:00 noon to 9:00 pm. Farm to Fork, Taste of Chenango, will offer fair-goers the opportunity to sample and purchase local foods, both fresh and freshly prepared by local chefs. More information is available at 334-9972 extension 17

State Police responded to a physical dispute in progress at 312 West Wendell Street in the Town of Union. 20 year old Alex Crotsley stabbed the victim in the chest several times with a knife causing injuries; he was arrested for attempted murder & was arraigned in the Town of Union court and remanded to the Broome County jail without bail. The adult victim was transported to Wilson Hospital where he is being treated for several non-life threatening stab wounds. This investigation is continuing.

On Friday afternoon, August 5, Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded a motor vehicle accident on Bussey Hollow Road in the Town of Andes. 60 year old Douglas Petoske, of Hancock lost control of his pickup while negotiating a curve in the roadway causing the vehicle to overturn, he was air lifted by a LifeNet to Albany Medical Center with a head injury, 23 year old Blaine Bolster of Hancock, sustained a minor injury and refused medical treatment at the scene. No tickets have been issued.

State Police arrested 36 year old Jeremy Austin of Binghamton for vehicular assault, operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, reckless endangerment & criminal possession of a controlled substance, after troopers responded to a report of an accident involving two tractor trailers on Interstate 81 in the Town of Marathon. Austin drove a tractor trailer off the roadway through a large median he crashed into a tractor trailer. The driver of the tractor trailer that he struck was transported to Wilson Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Austin was found to unlawfully possess about a gram of crystal methamphetamine, He was remanded to the Cortland County jail on bail, and I-81 was shut down for approximately 4 hours.

The Annual Chenango County Fair begins tomorrow in Norwich, fair spokesperson Mary Weidman comments:

(Mary Weidman 8-8-16)

The fair will run though Sunday at the fairgrounds in Norwich, The full schedule of events is available at chenangocountyfair.homestead.com.

Broome County Deputies responded to the report of a crash at Airport Road and CFJ Boulevard in the town of Dickinson Saturday afternoon. 33-year-old John Dirig of Long Eddy is accused of leaving the scene, and a 32-year-old woman who had overdosed on heroin in Dirig’s vehicle. Deputies administered Narcan and she was taken to an area hospital. Dirig was apprehended, he faces charges including criminal possession of a controlled substance, as Deputies confiscated 14 packets of heroin and hypodermic needles in his vehicle. The investigation is continuing, & more charges are possible.

State Police arrested 28-year-old Kayla Hartmann of Utica for DWI, obstructing governmental administration, unlawful possession of marihuana and several other traffic violations, following the report of a 1-car crash on Otsego County Road 10 in the Town of Laurens. Troopers were approached by 21-year-old Shania Russell of Oneonta, as well as Hartmann, both told troopers that Russell was driving when the crash happened and that Hartmann was a passenger, troopers reported that Hartmann was driving while intoxicated and had told her passenger to lie. Hartmann was arraigned in Town of Milford court and then was released without bail required. The investigation is ongoing.

Delaware County's annual Clean Sweep event will be in Late September again this year, for homes, farms & small businesses. Online Registration is already underway & phone registrations will be held next month, according to Delaware County Solid Waste Coordinator Sue McIntyre:

(Sue McIntyre 8-8-16)

McIntyre said that all of the flyers, tip sheets & the list of acceptable items are also available at the online registration website, the acceptable items are the same as last year. Businesses & farms will drop off their materials on Friday September 23rd & Households will go on Satu8rday September 24th.

A skunk has tested positive for rabies in the Village of Delhi. The Skunk was sent to the State Rabies Laboratory, The positive test results were received Friday & there was 1 human exposure. Delaware County Public Health is coordinating the Rabies Post Exposure Prophylaxis treatment the adult will be receiving. The next scheduled rabies clinics are at the Sidney Fire Hall on August 10th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM & the Delhi Fire Station on October 19th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. To report a suspected rabid animal call Delaware County Public Health Services at 832-5200. More information is available at delawarecountypublichealth.com -------------------------------------------

33 year old Joshua Whaley of Pitcher was arrested by the Chenango County Sheriff's department on 5 active warrants from various courts and various Police agencies. Whaley was wanted for failure to appear in court on original charges of Unlawful Fleeing, Criminal Possession of a controlled substance, and promoting prison contraband. Whaley was also charged with resisting arrest after he tried allegedly tried hiding inside a residence to avoid apprehension. Whaley was remanded to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office without bail until Chenango County Court convenes.

Almond Upton was found guilty in Broome County Court today of 1st degree murder for the death of State Trooper Christopher Skinner. The Jury deliberated for about 8 Hours until about 10:30 this morning, Upton intentionally ran down Trooper Skinner on May 29th 2014, while he was conducting an unrelated routine traffic stop on Interstate 81 North in the Town of Chenango. Upton will be sentenced in Broome County Court on November 10th.

The Annual Otsego County Fair continues through this weekend in Morris, with a big name concert scheduled for tonight, according to spokesperson Lisa Jones:

(Lisa Jones 8-5-16)

The Otsego County Fair runs through this Sunday at the fairgrounds in Morris.

The Otsego County Fair gets underway at the Fairgrounds in Morris tomorrow. Fair spokesperson Lisa Jones told WCDO News that the highlight would be the concert with Bucky Covington Friday night:

(Lisa Jones 8-1-16)

The Otsego County fair will run through this Sunday August 7th. More Information is available at OTSEGO COUNTY FAIR.ORG.

State Police arrested 21 year old Andrew Benjamin of Binghamton, for petty larceny, resisting arrest and criminal mischief, after a trooper responded to a shoplifting complaint at a gas station in the Town of Chenango. Benjamin was located walking down the street, he was arrested, & while being placed back inside the troop car, Benjamin became irate and began to physically resist as he struck the outside of the door several times with his head, causing damage to the patrol car.. Benjamin was arraigned in the Town of Chenango court and was remanded to the Broome County jail in lieu of $750 cash bail. His next court date is pending.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of 3 Margaretville people on Sealed Grand Jury Indictment Warrants. Deputies and Investigators arrested 39 year old Christopher Fairbairn for allegedly selling heroin in the Town of Middletown. 69 year old Salvatore Esposito was arrested for allegedly selling Oxycodone & Fentanyl transdermal patches from his residence. 62 year old Karen Certain was charged for allegedly selling hydrocodone in Margaretville. While acting on the Warrant, Investigators discovered marihuana being grown outside Certain’s residence, they arrested 61 year old Robert Cline for Unlicensed Cultivation of Cannabis. All face court action shortly.

Governor Cuomo today announced DICK'S Sporting Goods will invest $100 million to build a regional distribution facility at the Broome County Corporate Park in the Town of Conklin. DICK'S investment is creating 466 full-time jobs over the next five years in the Southern Tier. Construction on the 650,000-square-foot facility will begin next month and is scheduled for completion in early 2018.

Chenango county fair returns to Norwich August 9th to the 14th, fair spokesperson Mary Weidman told WCDO News about new attractions this year:

(Mary Weidman 7-191-16)

Weidman said that Coleman Brothers would be back with rides on the midway at the Chenango County Fair Grounds, the midway opens each day at 1:00 PM.

The Oneonta Common Council will hold their next regular meeting tonight. The meeting will begin at 7:00 PM at City hall in the Common Council Chambers. The Council will see a presentation from Sandy Mathes at Otsego County IDA regarding the Market Street Project.

Broome County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a vacant property on Williams Road in the Town of Windsor for a report of suspicious vehicles and people on the property. Upon arrival, a deputy observed several vehicles attempting to leave, While attempting to approach a vehicle to identify and speak with it’s occupants, a 2nd vehicle driven by 17 year old Levi Wormuth of Hancock attempted to drive around the deputy, his flashlight and hand got caught in an open side window of the vehicle and he was dragged a short distance before freeing himself. Wormuth continued to drive away from the scene even after being ordered to stop; another Deputy stopped him. Wormuth was charged with Obstructing Governmental Administration, Reckless Endangerment, Operating in violation of restrictions of a junior license, he was issued an appearance ticket for Windsor court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 58-year-old Louis Brigandi Jr of Walton Wednesday, on charges of criminal possession of a weapon, criminal possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of marijuana following a report of a suspicious fire on Wilderness Mountain Drive in the Town of Hamden. Deputies say Brigandi knowingly possessed a number of prescription pills without a prescription, possessed a quantity of marijuana, and possessed two firearms while having a status as a convicted felon. Brigandi was arraigned in Hamden Town Court and was remanded to the Delaware County Jail in lieu of $1,500 bail.

The Afton fair continues today & wraps up tomorrow, spokesperson Rhonda Barriger explains:

(Rhonda Barriger 7-8-16)

This year marks the 127th edition of the Afton Fair, which wraps up tomorrow night at the fairgrounds.

Delaware County DPW will begin oil & stone operations in the northern sections of the county Monday. Work will begin on County Route 9 & will continue on county routes 29, 30, 33, 12 & 10, work will then move south to routes 4, 27, 47, 20 & 67. The project is expected to take about 3 weeks to complete.

Binghamton Police arrested 34-year-old Nelson Romero of Binghamton for 2nd degree murder in connection with the death of 44 year Walter Slater of Binghamton. Slater’s body was found in the backyard at 2014 Oak Street in Binghamton last Thursday morning, several blocks from his home. Romero was arraigned & was remanded to the Broome County Jail.

The Afton fair continues today at the fairgrounds, spokesperson Rhonda Barriger explains:

(Rhonda Barriger 7-7-16)

The 127th Afton runs through Saturday.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 48 year old William Mills Jr, of New Jersey Sunday, for DWI, Aggravated DWI, using a vehicle without a court ordered interlock device, & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Mills was arraigned in the Village of Hancock Court, and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $2500 cash bail, pending future court action.

The 1st phase of the $50 Million Dollar restoration if the New York State fairgrounds are nearly complete, with the final touches being applied in the final months before the annual state fair. The 1-mile track & the grandstand are gone, in their place is an expanded midway, and a bigger RV park with 315 more spaces, 2/3rds are already booked for this year's fair, which begins on August 25th.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman today announced New York State's participation in partial settlements with Volkswagen and its Audi and Porsche affiliates arising from Volkswagen's violations of emissions standards and state consumer protection laws. As part of the settlements, all owners of 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder engine VW and Audi diesel cars in New York will be entitled to be paid full, pre-scandal fair market value for their vehicle, in addition to a cash payment of at least $5,100, car owners may also choose to keep their vehicle and wait to see if VW and Audi develop acceptable emissions fixes; car owners who exercise this option will also receive a cash payment of at least $5,100. The settlements will also direct to New York over $115 million for environmental projects to improve New York's air quality, as well as over $30 million in additional monetary recoveries for the state's general fund.

Otsego County District Attorney John Muehl announced that 50 year old Casey Callahan was arrested Monday on a sealed indictment warrant for 2nd degree Murder for the killing his wife Elizabeth on January 19th, 2000, by allegedly running her over with a tractor trailer in a parking lot in Athens Township Pennsylvania. Muehl stated that the murder was planned out when Callahan & his wife lived at Goodyear Lake; Callahan is s currently serving a 12-½ year sentence for a criminal sexual act conviction from 3 years ago. Callahan was arraigned and was returned to the Attica Correctional Facility. Callahan faces 25 years to life in prison.

State Police arrested 32-year-old Joseph Little of Sidney Aggravated DWI with a BAC result of .20%, and other traffic violations. Little was observed failing to use a designated lane on State Route 7 in the Town of Unadilla, he was arraigned in the Town of Unadilla court and was remanded to the Otsego County jail on $500 cash bail or $1,000 property bond pending future court action.

Binghamton Police arrested Shaun Pauling-Payne of Binghamton, for vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and several other charges, after he crashed into a motorcycle driven by 37-year-old William Nash Jr. Nash was taken to an area hospital, but died as a result of his injuries. Pauling-Payne had a BAC of .22; He was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and taken to the Broome County Jail. The investigation is continuing.

The Delaware County Board of Elections reminds county registered voters affiliated with the republican or democratic parties, that Primary Elections are today, from 12:00 Noon to 9:00 PM. Both Democrats & Republicans are holding a Primary for the 19th Congressional District. All Tompkins voters will now vote at the Tompkins Town Hall at 148 Bridge St., Trout Creek. More information is available at 832-5321. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman reminds voters that a hotline has been set up for those experiencing trouble in the polling place, the number is 800-771-7755.

The Delaware County Fair has a few tickets available for a variety of events planned this year in Walton. Fair Officials John Jackson commented about ticket availability for this year's attractions:

(John Jackson 6-17-16)

The Delaware County Fair will be held on August 15th through the 20th, wrapping up with the Frankie Ballard Concert on Saturday august 20th, tickets are available at Hodge's Power Equipment on Liberty Street in Walton or at Delaware county fair.Org.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested a City of Norwich resident on an active arrest warrant for Criminal Mischief. 50-year-old Brian Doeberl was charged following an investigation into allegations that he intentionally damaged county property while being incarcerated in the Chenango County Correctional Facility. Doeberl was arraigned in the Town of Norwich court and released on his own recognizance; he will reappear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Department arrested 47-year-old Gina Criscitello of Binghamton for DWI, Driving while ability impaired by Drugs among other charges, in the Town of Chenango Thursday night. Criscitello was transported to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office for further evaluation by a Drug Recognition Expert. Criscitello was released she will be arraigned in the Town of Chenango Court at a later date.

A Broome County Grand Jury handed up a 9-count indictment of 50-year-old James Starnes of Binghamton for Felony Predatory Sex Against a Child. Starnes faces a number of charges relating to performing illegal sexual acts with a Child,

I-88 Speedway will begin the Fast Cash Summer series starting tonight at the Afton Fairgrounds. Track Spokesperson Denise Page explains:

(Denise Page 6-17-16)

Page said that there would also be a special night of racing Tuesday night with Hot Laps at 6:45 and racing at 7:00 PM. More information is available at I88speedway.com.

The Chenango County Dairy Day will be held this Saturday in Norwich. The event is coordinated each year by a committee of area dairy farmers, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Chenango County Farm Bureau members, USDA employees, and local Chenango County businesses. The event will be held at the Chenango County Fairgrounds, following a parade in the City of Norwich leading to the Fairgrounds.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce & the Greater Oneonta Historical Society will introduce the self-guided walking tour of Main Street in Oneonta this Sunday at 2:00 PM. The self-guided walking tour is in the format of an app for mobile devices, it was constructed by Sweet Home Productions; it will be accompanied by a print version, which will be downloaded at www.OneontaHistory.org. At the launch, visitors will view a version of the app, and then be able to download it for free and try it out on the street. Refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public. The History Center will be open on June 19 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. For more information, contact 607-432-0960 or info@OneontaHistory.org.

Chenango Health Network’s Every Woman Counts in Chenango County Campaign is hosting a Breast Cancer Awareness Craft Fair with over 15 vendors Sunday at the River Club in Afton from 11:00 to 4:00 PM. The Lourdes “Mission in Motion” mobile mammography van will be on site providing mammograms for insured and uninsured women. Appointments are requested at 798-5723.

The Broome County Sheriff's department is asking the public to help find a Town of Chenango woman with health issues, who disappeared 2 weeks ago today. 37-year-old Brenda Halpin suffers from Huntington's disease which is a debilitating disease that affects her ability to walk, she was last seen on April 8th in her home in Chenango Bridge, Anyone with information is urged to call the Broome County Sheriff's Office at 778-1911.

The Otsego County Fair will have a concert on Friday night at the fairgrounds in Morris in August 5th. Fair Spokesperson Lisa Jones explains:

(Lisa Jones 4-18-16)

Jones said that the complete fair information will be posted on the refurbished website, which will be up & running May 1st.

State Police arrested 28 year old Bryon Hoblin of Afton for 3rd degree Assault & endangering the welfare of a child. Troopers responded to a Chenango County 911 report of a father and son physical dispute at Algerine Street in the Town of Afton, Hoblin allegedly punched his father in the face and knocked him out, while a child was watching. Hoblin was arraigned in the Town of Afton Court, where he pled guilty and was sentenced to 6 months at the Chenango County jail.

Broome County Sheriff David Harder reminded the area public today that they are still looking for Brenda Halpin of the town of Chenango. Halpin is a 37 year old white female, only 5 foot tall & weighing about 90-95 pounds. She was last seen wearing pajamas and may have on a black coat and sneakers. She has long brown straight hair and wears glasses. Brenda suffers from Huntington’s disease which affects her physical abilities including walking normally. Halpin was last seen at her residence on Poplar Hill Road in Chenango Bridge on Friday, April 8th, Anyone with any information is urged to call the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at 778-1911.

36 Year old Rafael Figueroa of Margaretville was sentenced in Delaware County Court to 9 years of in prison he was arrested in December of 2014 by the Delaware County Sheriff's Office for 3 counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, following a year and a half long investigation, for trafficking of cocaine. Figueroa was found guilty of all charges, & was sentenced to 3 consecutive 3-year prison sentences, post release Parole & he was also ordered to pay $525 restitution.

Chenango Health Network’s Every Woman Counts in Chenango County Campaign is hosting a Breast Cancer Awareness Craft Fair with over 15 vendors. This event will be held at the River Club in Afton April 24th from 11:00 to 4:00 PM. The Lourdes “Mission in Motion” mobile mammography van will be on site providing mammograms for insured and uninsured women. No appointments necessary. Appointments are requested at 798-5723.

Smithville Flats will play host to Filmmaker & author of the original 'Night of the Living Dead, John Russo, who will be promoting his upcoming movie 'My Uncle John Is A Zombie!’ in Chenango county this weekend. Russo Told WCDO News about the new movie that is due out later this year:

(John Russo 4-14-16)

Russo, along with several area performers will appear at the Book Peddler in Smithville Flats Sunday beginning at 11:00 AM.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch And the Assembly Task Force on the Developmentally Disabled will hold a meeting today at SUNY Broome Decker Health Sciences Center Room 201, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Crouch comments about the meeting:

(Crouch 4-14-16)

Crouch said that the state has been closing homes for the developmental disabled and putting them into smaller group home facilities, which may be detrimental to those who were previously cared for at Broome Developmental & other larger scale facilities with many more amenities, friends & staff available.

Work is beginning on restoring miles of track bed for the Utica Mainline railroad in Chenango County, which was heavily damaged in the 2006 floods. Steve Craig of Commerce Chenango & The Chenango IDA told WCDO News where the money is coming from to pay for the project:

(Steve Craig 4-7-16)

Craig said that they expect to see freight trains coming through Chenango County again in the spring or summer of 2017.

Christopher Winkler of Unadilla has conceded the tied race for the Unadilla Village Board seat, to Jeff Jones. Both Jones & Winkler received the same number of votes for the seat in the March village election, leaving local officials looking for answers from county or state election law on how to handle the tie. The race could have been decided with another election, a drawing, or the concession of one of the candidates to the other.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated a personal injury head-on collision Tuesday involving a tractor trailer and a car on State Highway 10 in the Town of Delhi, just south of Peakes Brook Road. The tractor trailer driver, 30 year old Michael Thompson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania attempted to pull into a parking lot when he struck a car being driven by 56 year old Tammie Wycoff of Grand Gorge. Wycoff and her passenger were transported to O’Connor Hospital with minor injuries and were later released. Thompson was issued a traffic summons for moving from lane unsafely, he faces court action in Town of Delhi Court on April 25th.

57 year old John Guzy of Bainbridge was found guilty of 15 of 17 counts including 2nd degree murder, attempted murder in Chenango County Court Wednesday, by Judge Frank Revoir.  Guzy was found guilty of shooting and killing 26-year-old Derek Prindle of Afton, in October 2014 on route 7 in Bainbridge.  Guzy also shot & wounded Prindle’s father during a confrontation following a road rage incident that ended in front of Peak Fitness.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 2 people for allegedly manufacturing methamphetamines in the town of Dickinson Wednesday morning. Deputies arrested Matthew Najarian and Jessica Palmatier. For operating a one pot meth operation at a gas station in Dickinson, the gas station had to be shut down for several hours to remove the hazardous meth making materials. Palmatier and Najarian were arraigned & were remanded to the Broome County Jail without bail.

New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs Director Eric Hesse Delivers Regional Budget Briefing this morning in Oneonta. Hesse will deliver the presentation at the Foothills Performing Arts Center at 24 Market Street at 9:00 AM

SUNY Broome will host a Career Fair today, for those interested in pursuing a career with an area business. The event will be held at the college’s Ice center, from 10:00 until 2:00 PM.