WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-23-24

Some Wintry weather should be affecting the region tonight into tomorrow, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend explains:

(Rich Townsend 12-23-24)

We'll have the rest of the WCDO Tri-County Forecast at the end of this news cast.

The State Department of Labor released local unemployment rates for November, The State’s unemployment rate held constant at 4.4% in November, locally, Chenango Country reported 3% unemployment, Delaware Country registered 3.4% and Otsego County had 3.3% unemployment in November.

Delaware Opportunities and the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce provided Christmas gifts to Delaware County children in need this month, Over 800 children from nearly 300 families benefited from this collaborative effort this year.

The Chenango Arts Council has been awarded at $40,000 Grant from the New York State Council on the Arts. The State Council has awarded $82 million this year to 509 artists and 1,497 organizations across the state.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-23-24

Otsego County District Attorney's Office announced the sentencing of Jamesan Conville of Pennsylvania. Conville was charged with reckless endangerment for driving off with an Otsego County Deputy partially inside of his car and dragged the deputy 300 feet. The deputy conducted a traffic stop on I-88 in the Town of Milford after Conville was clocked at about 100 miles an hour. Conville is expected to serve between 1 to 4 years in state prison.

Friends of Recovery Dedicated to Others celebrated the re-opening of its new recovery center, “The Turning Point of Delaware County” on Friday. The new facility provides a new and improved space for people struggling with substance abuse and addiction. The building additionally has a private entrance to keep confidentiality for patients going to the downtown Delhi location.

A Florida man is facing multiple charges following a firearms related incident in Endicott. Last Tuesday, patrols responded to a report that the Endicott Police Department were searching for a male suspect who had pointed a handgun at a female in Endicott, before fleeing the scene in a red Dodge Caravan. A short time later, Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies located the vehicle in the Town of Dickinson and conducted a traffic stop, 62 year old Jack Hawe of Zephyr Hills, Florida was found to have a loaded Glock pistol & ammunition, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, and other similar charges, he was processed & was sent to the Broome County Correctional Facility for Arraignment.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-2-24

A State of Emergency Declared for Multiple Counties in Western New York & in the North Country, with Snow Totals of 4 Feet reported. Between 4 to 10 inches of snow is forecast for Central New York and 3 to 5 inches in the Mohawk Valley Regions today. Motorists should check 511ny.org before traveling to the North & West of New York today.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office patrols responded Monday to a 911 call reporting shots fired in the area of State Route 7B in the Town of Fenton. The caller had been working to clear brush on State property with a Bobcat machine when he heard a gunshot and saw a person pointing a shotgun directly at him. After raising a portion of the Bobcat to protect himself, the worker called 911. 42 year old Jennifer Warner of Port Crane was taken into custody, she was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Reckless Endangerment, Menancing & Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance for methamphetamines, she was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office is partnering with Senator Peter Oberacker on a Winter Coat Drive. In Delaware County, new and gently used winter coats and jackets in any size may be dropped off at the Delaware County Office Building at 111 Main Street Delhi, For a list of other drop off locations go to Oberacker.NYSenate.gov.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a hit and run accident in the Town of Chenango. On November 27 at 6:30 p.m. at 1388 River Road, a car struck a pedestrian. Investigators are seeking assistance from anyone with information or home security camera footage from the accident. The vehicle involved is believed to be a black sedan with damage to its front passenger side, any information related to the incident, contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at (607)778-1196.

State Officials report that there have been relatively few incidents during this year's Deer Hunting Season, they did report that a 17 year old accidentally shot himself in the foot Saturday Morning in Oneida County, he was taken to a Syracuse hospital for the treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Delaware Opportunities and the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce are partnering with dozens of businesses and organizations across Delaware County to provide Christmas gifts to Delaware County children in need. New, unwrapped gifts may be deposited through Thursday, December 5. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO News that the affiliation with Toys for Tots has ended, the program remains the same:

(Ray Pucci 11-25-24)

To sign up a family in need of Christmas gifts contact Delaware Opportunities at 607-746-1603. Sign-ups are available through this Friday, November 29th.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced nearly $220 million in federal funding to support counter-terrorism and emergency preparedness efforts across New York State. The funding is provided by the FEMA, it supports planning, organization, equipment, training and exercise activities which are critical to sustaining and improving community prevention, protection, response and recovery capabilities. Locally, Chenango & Otsego Counties get over $93,000 each, Delaware County receives more that $85,000.

New York State repealed on Friday a law that made it a crime to cheat on your spouse, which was a misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 months in prison. Governor Hochul signed the bill that repealed that law that dates back to 1907, about a dozen people have been charged since the 1970s, and 5 of those cases resulted in convictions.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-25-24

State Police and local law enforcement agencies throughout the State will increase patrols through Thanksgiving weekend, targeting impaired and reckless driving. The special enforcement period runs through this Sunday and will also target other unsafe driving behaviors like Move Over Law violations. During the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday period, law enforcement officers arrested 1,342 drivers for DWI, issued 7,656 speeding tickets and 970 tickets for distracted driving.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded last month to a Harassment complaint in the Town of Davenport. 75-year-old George Sydlar of Davenport had engaged in a course of conduct, which alarmed or annoyed another person, and Deputies requested a criminal summons to be issued by the Davenport Town Court, last week Deputies arrested Sydlar, he is scheduled to return to the Davenport Town Court at a later date. Sydlar was sentenced to 30 days in jail earlier this year after he falsely reported that his neighbor committed a crime, and he refused to cooperate with authorities during the investigation.

The Chenango County Board of Supervisors will hold a public Budget hearing on the County budget proposal today at 5:00 PM today in the board meeting room at the County Office Building in Norwich, more information at chenangocountyny.gov/251/Budget

51 year old David Louden of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Friday after being arrested for a probation violation. The Delaware County Department of Probation had filed a revocation petition alleging 10 violations of the terms of his probation, for failing to report to his probation officer, possessing and consuming alcohol in violation of his conditions, possessing illegal narcotics, and refusing to answer the door to probation officers at his residence. Louden was remanded to the Delaware County Jail, he is scheduled for a conference on December 9th. .

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year old Michael VanDerWeert of Guilford & 47 year old Dawn Cavanaugh of North Carolina, for Burglary, Petty Larceny, Criminal Mischief and Conspiracy. Deputies responded to a burglary complaint at a business in the Town of Norwich, where someone broke into the building and stole multiple items. The vehicle used in the burglary was spotted at a business in the Village of Oxford, VanDerWeert and Cavanaugh were arrested and transported to the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office where they were released on appearance tickets to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Saturday to an ATV crash near Fuller Hollow Road in the Town of Hamden. Prior to Deputies’ arrival, Delaware County 911 reported that a victim had been privately transported to Delaware Valley Hospital in the Village of Walton with a second victim still on scene. Deputies located the 2nd victim, an 11-year-old male, at a residence, who was transported to Albany Medical Center by Life Net for non-life-threatening injuries. The 1st Victim was a 13-year-old female who was pronounced deceased at the Delaware Valley Hospital, due to injuries sustained from the crash.

Local sales tax collections in New York state increased by 2.3% in October according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Local collections totaled $1.84 billion for the month, up $41 million from the previous October, County and city collections outside of New York City increased by only .4%, 36 of 57 counties experienced year-over-year increases.

The Chenango County Historical Society will participate in Giving Tuesday, on December 3rd. Giving Tuesday asks people to donating to local charities, Giving Tuesday is held on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Also, the annual Holiday Open House and Museum Store Sunday will be from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on December 1st at the Chenango County Historical Society on Rexford Street in Norwich.

UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will launch “Be the Light,” to illuminate Newton House on Broad Street in Norwich. With a suggested donation of $20, community members can purchase a light that celebrates or memorializes a loved one. Names of honorees will be displayed at CMH throughout December. Proceeds will benefit the Auxiliary’s efforts to support patient services at CMH, the lighting ceremony and reception on Tuesday, December 3rd at 5:30pm at Newton House. For more information, call 607-337-4151.

Commerce Chenango's Thanksgiving Luncheon will be held Today at 11:00 AM at Saint Bart's in Norwich, more information is available at Commercechenango.com

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-14-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 38 year old Joseph Bard of Waterville for 3rd Degree Grand Larceny after an investigation into the theft of thousands of dollars from a local couple. Bard was arrested ,after an elderly couple reported thousands of dollars missing from their bank account, Bard is accused of making many transactions, transferring over $31,000 to his own bank account. Bard was located in Waterville & was taken into custody without incident, he was processed and was being held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await Centralized Arraignment.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced that New Yorkers can now apply to receive federal assistance to pay their heating bills, after she was able to secure $360 million in federal funding for New York through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

(Gillibrand 11-14-24)

New Yorkers can find eligibility requirements at ny.gov/heat, Households can apply at myBenefits.ny.gov. or at otda.ny.gov/programs/heap

A.M. NEWS Thursday 11-14-24

State Police and the Susquehanna SPCA removed 21 cats from a property in Chenango County Wednesday. Investigators were advised of a possible animal cruelty case at a home on State Route 206 in the town of Coventry. Investigators visited the home and determined that the cats were living in deplorable conditions within the home and in surrounding buildings on the property. The cats were removed with the assistance of the Susquehanna SPCA and will be receiving further medical care from the Susquehanna SPCA. The investigation is on-going. Charges are pending.

Following yesterday's Building a More Resilient Southern Tier event in Binghamton, Governor Hochul and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand announced that the Municipal Infrastructure Grant Program will be investing $140 million in fiber-optic broadband expansion across New York— with $64 million in funds coming to the Southern Tier Region. Open Access fiber connectivity will be available for multiple internet providers to use to offer fiber optic cable services to the region.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual Membership Meeting & Awards Ceremony today. Several County businesses will receive awards at the event, which will be held at the Foothills Performing Arts Center Atrium on Market Street in Oneonta from 5:30 to 8:30 PM.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-13-24

Last week, Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that his office would no longer be participating the the County's Drug Court, as changes like the State's Bail Reform laws & other factors have kept those that the program was meant to help, they are no longer entering into the criminal justice system and they can not get the help they need. Smith told WCDO News that at the very least, more decisions need to be made by the judges again:

(Shawn Smith 11-13-24)

WCDO News will be broadcasting the full interview with District Attorney Smith soon, and we will announce the broadcast dates shortly.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 29 year old Damion Spicer of Plymouth for 2nd degree Assault last week. Deputies were called for an assault in Sherburne, Spicer allegedly hit the victim several times in the face, causing serious physical injury. The victim was transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse to receive further treatment. Spicer was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $50,000 cash bail. Spicer is set to appear in the Town of Sherburne Court at a later date.

New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need will begin next Monday, Donations of new unwrapped toys, new and gently used coats, and new school supplies are requested to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season. The local drop-off locations will collect donations from November 18 through December 13th at the Binghamton State Office Building - 44 Hawley Street, or at the Homer Folks Facility at 28 Hill Street, Oneonta

Chenango County Fire officials are investigating a fire at 27 State Street in Oxford Friday afternoon. 2 people were injured, 1 suffered severe burns, 2 Life Net Helicopters were called for the victims.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-13-24

The Southern Tier 8 Regional Board is hosting the 1st State Infrastructure Summit: Building a More Resilient Southern Tier, where federal, state and regional leaders address the infrastructure needs of the 14-county Central and Southern Tier Regions. About 200 local, state and federal partners, are participating from 8:30 a.m. To 4:00 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel, in Binghamton.

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services announced that they have sent personnel to assist in the fighting of the Catskills area wildfires in Ulster, Sullivan & Orange Counties. Otsego County deployed 5 Hand-crews, totaling 25 firefighters, to assist in Greenwood Lake, with fire fighters from Milford, Otego, Unadilla, & West Laurens Fire Departments, as well as Otsego County Emergency Services Deputy Fire Coordinator Jeremy Hilton. An extended appreciation is warranted to the Cherry Valley, Garrattsville, Gilbertsville, Morris, Mount Vision, Richfield Springs, West Exeter & Worcester Fire Departments for also offering additional personnel for deployment.

State Senator Peter Oberacker and Assemblyman Joe Angelino announced the signing of legislation renaming a bridge spanning the Chenango River, connecting the Town of Greene and the Town of Fenton in honor of decorated Vietnam veteran Herman Anders Jr. Specialist Anders was awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and the National Defense Service Medal, while facing intense enemy fire, he put himself in harm's way and led his unit to safety, he continued to defend his fellow soldiers, engaging enemy forces until his last moments. Specialist Anders rests now in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery in Chenango County.

Southern Tier 8 will host the Building a More Resilient Southern Tier Breakfast Buffet Wednesday in Binghamton with about 200 people attending. Topics of discussion will include Flood Resilience, Energy, Economic Development, and Broadband Investment & cyber-security.

The Village of Unadilla will have their 2nd annual Tree Decorating event at the Community House on December 13th, Unadilla Mayor Jake Cotten explains:

(Jake Cotten 11-11-24)

Cotten said that interested businesses and organizations should contact him at 607-373-7370 before December 11th, a parade will follow the Christmas Tree Lighting on December 13th.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-11-24

The DEP and State Police helicopters are conducting aerial firefighting operations to assist local fire departments battling the Whitehouse forest fire raging across 384 acres in the mountainous New York City watershed between the Rondout and Ashokan reservoirs in Ulster County in the Catskills.

Otsego County is accepting applications continuously for Correction Officers. Applicants must have Graduated from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma, should Possess an appropriate level New York State driver’s license and acceptable driving record, and must pass a background check. To obtain an application visit the otsegocountyny.gov/departments.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-8-24

The Norwich Police Department concluded an investigation into the sale of narcotics yesterday, they arrested 59 year old John Williams of Edmeston on 3 Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Williams is accused of possessing Methamphetamine, Crack Cocaine & Fentanyl, plus cash from suspected drug sales, Williams was arraigned at Chenango County Court and is being held wihout Bail, pending further court appearances.

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.

Binghamton Police responded to the report Thursday morning of an bomb threat at the State Office Building, at the 17th floor Attorney General’s office. A K9 Unit along with the Endicott Police Bomb Squad searched the office and did not find a bomb. The building has reopened, the investigation is continuing and anyone with information is encouraged to contact Binghamton Police Detectives at 607-772-7080.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-23-24

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office announced that the South Abington Police Department in Pennsylvania located & arrested Donald Shurock, who is being held in the Lackawanna County Jail pending his extradition back to New York. Shurock was wanted since last week, he had been located in a vehicle by a deputy, resisted arrested and fled the scene on foot, the Deputy was treated & released for injuries sustained in trying to arrest Shurock. Shurock is wanted on the initial warrant plus Assault of a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest.

The Otsego County Board of Elections announced that Early Voting for the November 5 General Election will begin October 26 through November 3 at the Foothills Performing Arts Center, on Market Street in Oneonta & at The Meadows Office Complex, at 140 County Highway 33W in Cooperstown. Polls will be open from 9 am. to 5 pm. on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Polls will be open from 12 to 8 pm. on Tuesday and Thursday. Otsego County voters are welcome to vote at either location. For more information, contact the Otsego County Board of Elections at (607) 547-4247.

The Delaware County Historical Association annual meeting will be held on Sunday, November 3rd at 1:00 PM in the large gallery at the Association's facility in Delhi. The annual Awards of Merit this year will go to the Walton Theatre Preservation Association, the Delaware County Diggers, Eli Taylor of Middletown & Scott Payne of Deposit

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-23-24

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors will have an official ribbon cutting ceremony at the new DPW Administration Building at 2 Bridge Street in Delhi at 12:00 PM Today. The new office building houses the DPW administrative staff along with the Planning and Watershed Affairs offices. Remaining on Page Avenue in Delhi is the DPW material storage yard, the fueling station, the bridge fabrication shop and the salt shed. The new patrol building in Bloomville will allow for greater access to roads in the northern part of the county for maintenance and snow removal. The new mechanics facility in the Town of Walton will be for car and heavy equipment repair.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 41 year old Benjamin Bishop of Otselic for reckless endangerment, two counts of unlawful fleeing, and one count of resisting arrest. The Sheriff’s Office received a complaint of a road rage incident after a caller reported that Bishop's Van ran a vehicle off the road in Sherburne, additional calls described Bishop cutting off and tailgating other vehicles, he was located in Norwich, deputies attempted a traffic stop, he failed to comply, struck multiple vehicles and his vehicle became disabled, he fled on foot but was taken into custody after a taser was deployed. Bishop was also charged with numerous traffic citations & faces court action at a later date.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for September, The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held constant at 4.4% in September 2024. Locally, Chenango County had 2.7% unemployment, Delaware County 3.2% & Otsego County had 2.9% in September.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 48 year old Noel Wildey following an execution of an eviction in the Town of Masonville. Last Wednesday, members of the Delaware County Sheriff's Civil Division were conducting an eviction at a residence in the Town of Masonville, where Wildey failed to provide his proper name and date of birth, giving several false names, it was discovered that Wildey had an active Arrest Warrant out of the State of Pennsylvania. Wildey was charged on the warrant & for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Obstruction of Governmental Administration, he was held at the Delaware County Correctional Facility to for arraignment.

Secretary of State Walter Mosley today announced the completion of the $19 million Dietz Street mixed-use housing development as part of the Oneonta Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which includes the new Hartwick College Baking Innovation Lab:

(Walter Mosley 10-22-24)

The new mixed-use building was constructed on an underutilized parking lot on Dietz Street and now hosts not only the Hartwick Baking Innovation Lab, but also 64 units of affordable and below market rate housing. The project received $1,470,000 in funding from the City’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award.

Broadway In Binghamton’s latest show, AIN’T TOO PROUD – THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS, opens tonight and will play tonight & tomorrow Night at the Forum Theatre. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Forum Box Office, online at BroadwayInBinghamton.com, or through Ticketmaster.com.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-22-24

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 30 year old Jacob Nack of Oneonta for Promoting Prison Contraband. Nack is accused of not taking his medications properly while in the Otsego County Correctional Facility, he was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

Several Fire Companies responded to a barn fire on County Route 22 in Smyrna Sunday morning. Several animals died in the fire, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-7-24

Otsego County Sheriff's office arrested 33 year old Schuyler Schmidt of Garratsville following an investigation of a structure fire in the Town of New Lisbon. Schmidt was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Arson, Criminal Mischief in connection with a structure fire of a garage owned by a relative, multiple area Fire Departments responded, investigators located approximately thirteen vehicles & Machinery sustained significant damage or had become a total loss. Upon Arrested, Schmidt allegedly possessed methamphetamine, he was held at the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending arraignment.

The Chenango County Planning Department has scheduled an Open House for County Members to examine the County's draft 2050 Vision Plan, County Planning Director Shane Butler explains:

(Shane Butler 10-7-24)

The Open House will be held on October 16th from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at the Commerce Chenango Office at 15 South Broad Street in Norwich, more information is available at chenangocounty2050.com.

DCMO BOCES is seeking donations from the local counties, in order to continue to send winners of area Spelling bees & their families to the National Competition nest year, spokesperson Martha Ryan explains:

(Martha Ryan 10-7-24)

Donations may be sent by check payable to DCMO BOCES - Spelling Bee Program and mailed to 6678 County Road 32 Norwich, NY 13815. For more information, call 607-335-1292 or contact by email at ryanm@dcmoboces.com.

Governor Kathy Hochul today extended the application deadline for homeowners to apply for emergency repair grants for the July and August 2024 extreme weather events across the state. Funds are available to eligible homeowners flood or insurance coverage or other forms of disaster recovery funds insufficient. Locally Delaware County Residents who had damage from the severe weather of August 9th & 10th are eligible, more information on the program, is available on HCR’s website: hcr.ny.gov. The application deadline has now been extended to Friday, November 8.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-7-24

52 year old Shannon Finch of Margaretville was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury & was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. The indictment alleges that on May 5 in a hotel room in Fleischmanns, Finch, possessed methamphetamine, he was previously arraigned in the Town of Middletown Town Court where he was released on his own recognizance, he faces up to 5 1/2 years in state prison and 2 years of post-release supervision if convicted.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol observed a vehicle reported missing from the Town of Fenton. The vehicle had pulled into a driveway in Binghamton when the patrol activated their emergency lights. The vehicle then accelerated into the yard, driving through a fence into the yard of a residence on State St in an attempt to escape police. The vehicle had struck a building, the occupants fled on foot. The female passenger, 21 year old Hailey Blank was located and taken into custody, 20 year old Rodney McCormick, was located & arrested, he was charged with Criminal Mischief, Reckless Endangerment, Obstruction of Governmental Administration & Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Blank was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & Obstruction of Governmental Administration. McCormick and Blank were turned over the Binghamton Police to answer for multiple warrants, both were remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility.

19 year old Lamont Weaver of Binghamton, and an 18-year-old adolescent offender from Binghamton, pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Weapon in Broome County Court. On April 27th, Weaver was involved in a shooting in Binghamton, at sentencing on October 25, 2024, Weaver is expected to receive a sentence of up to 8 years in New York State Prison, along with up to 5 years of post-release supervision. On August 18th, the adolescent offender was involved in shooting in Binghamton, firing several rounds at people during a dispute. the adolescent faces 6 years in State Prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision.

59 year old Dolores Barse, also known as Dolores Hurlburt of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court last week & pleaded guilty to Welfare Fraud, she is accused of providing false information while applying for SNAP and HEAP benefits, she claimed to have no income despite being employed. Barse improperly received $14,203 in public benefits that she was not entitled to, she will be ordered to pay the money back to the Delaware County Department of Social Services.

Oneonta Firefighters responded to the report of an apartment fire in the Oneonta Theatre building on Chestnut street this afternoon. Smoke appeared from the front windows of a 2nd floor apartment, Chestnut Street was closed from Main Street to Academy Street for fire fighting equipment, WCDO will have more detail as as they become available.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 34 year old Daniel Dungey of Oxford for 2 counts of Menacing, 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and 1 count of Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation. Deputies and State Troopers responded to a domestic dispute in the Town of Plymouth, where a firearm was displayed. Law enforcement arrived and secured the scene. It was determined that during the physical altercation, Dungey displayed a loaded handgun and threatened the victims, in the presence of several children. Deputies and Troopers located multiple firearms inside Dungey’s vehicle on scene, he was arraigned & was released on his own recognizance & will appear in the Town of Plymouth Court at a later date.

Leaderful Delaware is seeking people committed to community service who would benefit from strengthening leadership skills while developing a personal professional network. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci said that the program has obtained the desired results:

(Ray Pucci 9-26-24)

The 2024-2025 program will start on October 17 with an in-person session in Delhi, they meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month through May 2025. A graduation recognition will be celebrated at the Chamber’s Business and Breakfast event in June 2025. Applicants may be sponsored by a business or a community leader and provide references, the Application deadline is tomorrow September 27. Download application at delawarecounty.org.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative in Delaware County Friday. During the initiative 15 business were checked for compliance, and ALL were found to be in compliance. Businesses that complied were in Masonville, Sidney, Delhi, Walton & Franklin. During these investigations, businesses are checked utilizing a Trooper in plain clothes and one or several underage operatives who cannot lie about their age of provide a false date of birth.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will have their annual Celebrity Dinner on October 3rd at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich, Spokesperson Sarah Greene Explains:

(Sarah Green 9-3-24)

Those who want to purchase tickets for the fundraising Dinner can go to chenangohospice.org or call 607-334-3556, by September 25.

The next meeting of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce will be held tomorrow morning. The meeting begins at 8:00 AM at the Sidney Golf & Country Club , all members & directors are urged to attend.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-3-24

State Police assigned to the New York State Fair Sunday received a call of possible shots fired between the midway and concert at Suburban Park, 3 minutes later they received a secondary call of possible shots fired at the eatery building. Troopers responded to both reports and determined that there was no evidence of shots fired or anyone being injured. After consulting with Fair officials, the decision was made to close the Fair early on Sunday night. State Police continue to investigate the false reports.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a stabbing that took place at 207 Bornt Hill Rd in the Town of Union. A suspect is in custody and the victim was transported to UHS Wilson Hospital with serious injuries. The Sheriff's Office received assistance was provided from the State Police and the Endicott Police Department, the investigation is continuing.

The Chenango County Republican Committee announces the Grand Opening of their Chenango County Republican Headquarters will be held on Tuesday, September 3rd. at 2:30 PM. The Headquarters is located at 6 East Main Street in Norwich in the Copies Plus Building. This is across the street from East Park. Several Republican representatives whose districts cover Chenango County will be participating

The Former St. Mary's Church in Rome, which was built in 1872, will be taken down after damage to the church form a tornado that ripped through Rome July 16th, the steeple & roof were ripped apart & the building was too unstable to rebuild.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 8-23-24

The Norwich Police Department is investigating a motorcycle fatality accident that occurred on Prentice Street in the City of Norwich Wednesday evening. 66 year old Robert Vanvorst ran off the roadway into a wooded area, he succumbed to his injuries on the scene. The investigation is ongoing, and the Norwich Police Department was assisted by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Accident Reconstruction Team.

State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrested 47 year old David Burns of Trumansburg, for 2nd degree Grand Larceny. State Police learned that a victim had entered into a contract with Burns, who owns Duramax Developers in July 2023 and didn’t complete work he was paid to do. Burns was hired to demolish an existing building and build a modular home in its place but only completed part of the job, even though the victim paid him over $400,000. Burns was processed at and was transported to the Tompkins County Correctional Facility for Centralized Arraignment.

State Police arrested 52 year old William Harris of Richmond Virginia, Harris was operating a tractor trailer with an oversized load while impaired by alcohol and in possession of an illegal weapon, he was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon & Driving While Intoxicated in a Commercial Vehicle. Harris was apprehneded after he failed to stop for a mandatory tractor trailer inspection stop on I-81 Harris failed Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, Police located an assault weapon in his possession, Harris was later transported to the Cortland County Correctional Facility for Centralized Arraignment.

The Chenango County Health Department will hold a rabies vaccine clinic for dogs, cats & ferrets Saturday, at the South Otselic Fire Department, the clinic will run from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, pre-registration is requested at 607-337-1673, a $5 donation is suggested.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-17-24

The National Weather Service confirmed at least 1 tornado in the City of Rome, and 3 likely tornadoes in Hamilton County. 1 death was attributed to yesterday's severe storms in Canastota, in Madison County.

The application period is now open for New York State’s entry-level law enforcement civil service exam. The exam is for interested, qualified applicants seeking a position throughout the Empire State at the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the State University of New York. Qualified candidates can apply online at cs.ny.gov/police until 11:59 pm. EST on August 14, 2024, to take the exam, scheduled for the fall.

The Chenango Arts Council will be holding their Kids Summer Art Camp again this year, for kids ages 10 to 14 at the Chenango Arts Council building at 27 West Main Street in Norwich, Council Spokesperson Mary Beth Miller explains:

(Mary Beth Miller 7-17-24)

Miller said that there are spots available, Parents can register their children at register@chenangoarts.org or by calling 607-337-2787.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours Today from 10:00am to 12:00 noon at the Guilford Town Hall. Constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro’s office to resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS and Social Security Administration.

Plans are moving forward for projects in the Norwich DRI Grant program, Commerce Chenango CEO & President Sal Testani explains:

(Sal Testani 7-11-24)

Among the project, and American Avenue Beautification Project, the Lackawanna Avenue Project, the downtown boutique hotel, a downtown brewery project, improvements to the Martin W. Kappel Theater, and a multi-purpose plan for the old Unguentine Building.

The 2024 Otsego County Fair is set to take place July 30 to August 4. spokesperson Lisa Jackson told WCDO News that there are many new vendors & attractions this year:

(Lisa Jackson 7-11-24)

More Information is available at their website: otsegocountyfair.org or on their Facebook page.

The Chenango County Health Department will hold a rabies vaccination clinic for Dogs, Cats & Ferrets today in Bainbridge. The clinic will run from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at the Bainbridge Town Hall. Pre-register at 607-337-1673, a $5 donation is suggested.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 7-11-24

The State Office of Cannabis Management presented updates at their meeting this week regarding the State's ongoing efforts to enforce against the illicit cannabis market. To date, the Office reported that over 323 inspections have been conducted by State Officials, resulting in the seizure of more than 4,800 pounds of illicit cannabis products, valued at nearly $30 million. As of Tuesday, 164 illicit stores have been padlocked, including Sidney Exotics at 30 Main Street, 252 Notices of Violation have been issued, and 76 hearings have been conducted. the total number of adult-use licenses issued in 2024 will climb to 614.

New York State will receive a total $112.7 of the $462 million settlement with Vaping Manufacturer Juul. Locally Broome will receive $596,588, Chenango County will get $351,000, Delaware County $315,519, more information is available at the Attorney General's website.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies received information last month that firearms had been turned over from 45 yr-old George Coulter to a third party for safe keeping. It was discovered during the course of the investigation that one of those firearms was a semi-automatic pistol & that Coulter did not possess a valid State Pistol permit. All firearms and one pistol were secured by Delaware County Sheriff Deputies, Coulter was charged with criminal possession of a weapon, he was released on an appearance ticket, returnable at a later date to the Franklin Town Court.

Congressman Marc Molinaro's constituent service team will hold mobile office hours from 10:00am to noon today at Windsor Village Hall, constituents will be able to connect with representatives from Rep. Molinaro's office to share comments and resolve issues they are having with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and Social Security Administration.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of renovations at Red Mill Apartments, a $5.2 million, 18-unit affordable housing complex in the town of New Berlin in Chenango County. The rehabilitation included gutting the building interior and extensive repairs to the exterior. The building received a new roof, siding, windows, walls, and doors; upgraded heating, plumbing, electric, and septic pump systems; and a new fire alarm system for the complex. All of the apartments are available for households earning 80 percent or less of the Area Median Income. More information is available at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.

The state Office of General Services has discontinued holding periodic auctions of state surplus vehicles and highway equipment at various locations around the state. State vehicles will be auctioned off online only, along with other surplus items such as used desks or computer screens, tools, & other items that state government workers no longer need. The switch to auctioning vehicles started on May 1. Bidders will no longer be required to show up in person to bid on a vehicle, and OGS and its partner agencies will not have to transport surplus items to auction sites.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-7-24

Binghamton Police arrested a 17 year old juvenile & seized a “ghost gun” & a high capacity magazine during a stop of a stolen vehicle. The unidentified 17-year-old fled from the vehicle and was pursued by the Binghamton Police & was captured. The Juvenile was charged with multiple counts of criminal possession of a weapon & obstructing governmental administration.

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.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 45 year old Hayes Cutting of Bainbridge pleaded guilty to 1 Count of Aggravated Family Offense in Delaware County Court Monday. Cutting admitted that on January 28, 2023, in the Village of Sidney, he intentionally choked an 18-year-old female, he will be sentenced to a state prison for 1.5 to 3 years, he is currently serving a 5-year state prison sentence for unrelated assault charges.

Tri Town Theatre will present "Rent" on the Sidney High School Auditorium stage in early May, cast members Olivia Hawkins & Owen Freidenstine visited WCDO and

talked about staging this ambitious production:

(Tri Town Theatre 4-17-24)

The show will be on May 3rd through May 5th, with curtain times at 7:30 Friday & Saturday Night, with a Sunday Matinee at 2:00 PM, tickets can be purchased at

TriTown.Booktix.com

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-17-24

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 28 year old Jessica Lopez of Sidney was convicted of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in Delaware County Court Monday. Lopez appeared in Delaware County Court for an arraignment on drug related charges, she pleaded guilt after she admitted that she possessed fentanyl in the Village of Sidney on February 27, she intended to sell. Lopez will be sentenced to 6.5 years in state prison, and 2 years of post-release supervision on June 10th.

38 year old Tristan Skeete of Brooklyn was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury, on one count of Assault, On February 20, Skeete allegedly caused physical injury to another inmate at the Delaware County Correctional Facility, where he was being held as a federal inmate for violating the terms of his post-release supervision. Skeete can face up to 7 years in state prison.

Commerce Chenango announced that the next Business After Hours event will be held at the UHS Chenango Memorial Women's Health Center at 32 Conkey Avenue on today from 4:30 to 6:00 PM.

Tri-County Senior Center will have a presentation today starting at 10:30 am, with Ann Thayer from the New York State Alzheimer's Association, entitled "10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's." The program will be held at the Tri-County Senior Center is located in the right rear of the AO Fox building at 43 Pearl Street in Sidney.

The Next Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours will be today from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the Delhi Rehabilitation and Nursing Center on State Highway 10, Delhi. Chamber members interested in attending can Register at delawarecounty.org.

The Town & Village of Unadilla will hold their Spring Clean-Up days today & tomorrow from 6:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Items can be brought to the Town Highway Garage at 216 County Highway 3, Information about the accepted items can be found at villageofunadilla.com.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 27 year old Clayton Utter of Unadilla for DWI, On March 25th, Deputies were at the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office processing an unrelated individual for DWI, when they received a complaint of a vehicle disabled/stuck on the property of the Sheriff’s Office. Deputies located a vehicle stuck near the building and determined that Utter was coming to pick up an individual in custody for DWI, Deputies arrested Utter fro DWI, driving with a BAC of .08% or more, Criminal Mischief, & an inoperable headlamp. Utter was released on appearance tickets and turned over to a sober driver to appear at the Town of Delhi Court at a later date to answer the charges.

Wintry Precipitation is expected as the National Weather service has issued a Winter Weather Watch for Wednesday Afternoon into Friday, local meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(RICH TOWNSEND 4-2-24)

We'll have the WCDO complete Tri County Forecast at the end of this newscast.

State Lawmakers were late in getting the budget completed by midnight Monday night, and negotiations are going on in private between the Governor's office & leaders from both houses of the legislature. Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO News what the hold ups are:

(JOE ANGELINO 4-2-24)

Angelino said that lawmakers are basically in agreement in sending money to New York City for the migrant situation & transportation issues.

The Workforce Development Board is offering a free virtual job fair today, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, for all businesses and job seekers in numerous area counties including Delaware Otsego & Chenango Counties. More information is available at working-solutions.org.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 34 year old Aaron Talbot of Norwich for Failure to Notify Law Enforcement of an Address Change, which is a violation as Talbot is a level 3 convicted sex offender in New York. Talbot is accused of failing to register his new address within 10 days of his move, he was held at the Chenango County Correctional Facility on a parole warrant and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Justin Ingalls of Milford following a welfare check in the Town of Milford. Ingalls was charged with Driving while intoxicated, Driving while ability impaired by drugs, Criminal possession of a controlled substance as well as Miscellaneous Traffic Violations, after an investigation revealed that Ingalls had been operating a motor vehicle while his ability was impaired by drugs, he was released on appearance tickets for Town of Milford court at a later date.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office patrols responded to reports of suspicious activity in and around an apartment building in the Town of Union Friday. The investigation revealed that 31 year old Miguel Martinez had broken into a second-floor apartment through a bedroom window. The noises alerted a downstairs neighbor, who called 911. Broome County Sheriff’s Office patrols & State Police located Martinez nearby and placed him in custody without incident, he was charged with 2nd degree Burglary & was arraigned and remains in custody at the Broome County Correctional Facility, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement were informed of the arrest of the undocumented Martinez and will coordinate a transfer of custody at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Monday 3-25-24

The Norwich City Police Department has concluded the investigation into the armed robbery on May 23, 2023, at Holt’s Hemp Emporium. Varun Maharajh of Trinidad, also known as Kelvin Sihgh, is in Federal Custody in Florida, he was taken into custody on separate federal charges in November by the Indian River Sheriff’s Office, after a high-speed chase, he was charged with 7 counts in a federal indictment that alleges he knowingly attempted to export firearms and ammunition to the United Kingdom, as well as illegally and unlawfully possessing numerous firearms and ammunition. The Norwich Police Department is working with the Chenango County District Attorney’s and criminal charges are expected to be filed against Maharajh in the near future.

The State Department of Health announced the 3rd case of measles in 2024, The case was identified in a patient who resides in Nassau County and was confirmed at the Department's Wadsworth Lab in Albany. The State Health Department is closely monitoring this case, along with Nassau County health officials, and have alerted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The first 2 cases were reported in New York City.

The Next Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Business & Breakfast event is being held today, at the Hamden Inn and Lounge. The event is sponsored by Delhi Telephone Company & begins at 8:30 AM.

State Legislature has 1 week to get a budget together in time for the beginning of the state's fiscal year on April 1st, local Assemblyman Brian Miller said that both houses added billions onto the Governor's proposal, but there is some redeeming features:

(Assemblyman Brian Miller 3-25-24)

Miller represents a portion of Otsego County, as well as section of the Mohawk Valley & North Country.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 2-14-24

The Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar gave an update today regarding the investigation into last Friday's multi-vehicle accident on State Route 12A in the Town of Chenango where a 15 year old faces several charges & will be processed in Family Court:

(Sheriff Akshar 2-14-24)

The 15 year old juvenile had no previous record, the driver of 1st vehicle that was hit, sustained serious injuries and was transported to UHS Wilson Medical Center, and remains there in recovery, the juvenile was also taken to Wilson & was treated & released.

State Police at Troop C has updated the situation regarding the January 29th incident, where Cortland County Sheriff’s Office attempted to serve eviction paperwork to 58 year old Steven Burda who was in possession of a shotgun. State Police responded to the assist, they attempted to de-escalate the situation until Cortland Police Lieutenant Cheyenne Cute attempted to disarm Burda using beanbag impact rounds, which were ineffective and Burda discharged his shotgun at the Officers, who were not struck. Cortland County Sheriff’s Investigator Sergeant Anthony Phelps discharged his sidearm, striking Burda in the lower body. Burda was transported to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, he is in stable condition, State Police obtained an arrest warrant for Burda for Attempted Murder, he will be arraigned on the warrant following his release from the hospital.

Commerce Chenango announced that they will host a State Budget presentation on February 20th. The discussion will beheld at the Commerce Chenango Offices at 15 South Broad Street starting at 3:00 PM, RSVP's are requested to ARobinson@ChenangoNY.org.

The Workforce Development Board is offering a free virtual job fair on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, for all businesses and job seekers in several area counties, including Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego. To learn more, visit working-solutions.org.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-14-24

The Binghamton Police Department is currently investigating a shooting on Monday At approximately 7:10 pm. at 100 Roberts Street building 6. officers located 15- 9mm shell casings and 10- 40 caliber Shell casings, No injuries have been reported, 4 vehicles had been struck by gunfire. The suspects are described as five to six masked men, last seen fleeing the area on foot. Anyone with information should contact the Binghamton Police Detective Bureau at (607) 772-7080.

Broome County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 37 year old Helene Delnegro of Port Dickinson, for Reckless Endangerment and Obstructing Governmental Administration, after driving through an active crime scene while fleeing police. Delnegro was taken into custody by New York State Police on separate charges related to his incident.

Scammers impersonating Sheriff’s detectives and deputies are again contacting Broome County residents in an effort to solicit money and gift cards from unsuspecting victims, where the residents are informed that they had missed a court appearance and were threatened with warrants for arrest or thousands of dollars in fines. The scammer will request payment in the form of credit card information or gift cards, in some cases the victim’s employer was also contacted as part of the scam. Residents are urged to terminate the call and not share any credit card information over the phone from cold callers, those who receive scam calls are urged to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at 607-778-1911.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Department is currently attempting to locate 36 year old Nathan Pixley of Binghamton regarding the pending charges of Domestic Harassment, Strangulation, Criminal Mischief, Violation of Court Stay Away Order, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child stemming from an incident that occurred in the Town of Fenton on January 2nd. Pixley is known to operate a Gray Toyota Corolla 4-door sedan, license plate NY-KWD-3285 and is last known to frequent the Burr Avenue area of the City of Binghamton. Pixley is described as a White Male, 6'1" 160 pounds with brown hear & brown eyes, anyone with information on the location of Nathan Pixley, please contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Department at 607-778-1191.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 29 year old Katelyn Tresnak of Smithville, for welfare fraud & Grand Larceny. Tresnak was charged following a fraud complaint from Chenango County Department of Social Services, Fraud Investigation Division. The investigation revealed that Tresnak illegally trafficked over $1,400 in SNAP Benefits. Tresnak was arrested and released on an appearance ticket for Village of Oxford Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-3-24

Governor Hochul will deliver the 2024 STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS next Tuesday January 9th at 1:00 pm to a joint session of the State Legislature. The Address will be held at the Assembly Chamber in the New York State Capitol Building in Albany.