WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-25-26

Several law enforcement agencies commented at a press conference in Binghamton today regarding the Fire at the Knight's Inn of Endwell June 22nd, State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation Captain Lucas Anthony discussed the investigation & released the names of those deceased in Monday's Fire:

(Captain Lucas Anthony 6-25-26)

State Police arrested 24 year old Tyler Russell of Endwell, Monday for 6 counts of 2nd degree Manslaughter & 1 count of Arson, he is being held at the Broome County Correctional Facility without bail pending Grand Jury action.

Norwich Police Department executed a search warrant at 41 Cortland Street following an investigation into the sale and distribution of illegal narcotics. 39 year old Shawn Utter of Norwich, & 24 year old Brittany Cox were charged with several Counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Nuisance & Conspiracy, Officers seized cash from suspected drug sales, drug measuring equipment, methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, various pills, & weapons, The Village of Sidney Police Department assisted on scene with their drug detecting K9 unit, Utter was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail pending further proceedings. Cox was processed and arraigned in Norwich City Court, where she was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash bail.

The FBI & the Johnson City Police Department arrested 69 year old Robert Randesi of Johnson City on federal drug & weapons charges after the execution of search warrant at a warehouse style building in Johnson City. Officers located over 20 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, quantities of marijuana, approximately $24,000 in cash, several firearms including AR-15 style rifles, ghost guns, firearm parts and ammunition, plus machinist tools and metal fabricating equipment consistent with tools used to construct or mill firearms & their parts. Randesi is currently in the Broome County Jail, He faces court action for both state and federal charges.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-22-25

Broome County 911 Center received multiple reports of a fire at the Knights Inn, at 2603 East Main Street in Endwell, at about 6:00 AM today, a total of 6 fatalities have been confirmed. Additional information, including the identities of the victims, will be released at a later time, 2 others were taken to Wilson Medical Center. over 70 residents have been displaced and are being assisted by the Red Cross. A temporary shelter has been set up at the Vestal United Methodist Church. Endwell Fire Department arrived to find heavy black smoke in the front of the building and flames showing from the rear of the building. The fire spread rapidly, and multiple Fire Departments, ambulance crews and police agencies arrived on scene to assist. The New York State Office of Fire, the Broome County Office of Emergency Services, Broome County Mobile Crisis Response Team is on scene, the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Tomorrow is is Primary Election day around the State. Democrats will vote statewide for the Comptroller candidate between long time incumbent Tom DiNapoli and challengers Drew Warshaw and Raj Goyle. Locally Democrats in the 102nd Assembly District will decide between 3 candidates, Thomas Boomhower, Janet Tweed & Mary Finneran. In the Republican Primaries locally, Peter Oberacker & Alexander Portelli are seeking the nomination to be on the ballot for the 19th Congressional District, in the 51st State Senate District, the Republican candidates are Chris Tague & Terry Bernardo, for Otsego County Sheriff, Incumbent Rich Devlin faces a challenge from Mike Stalter, In Afton, Jason Wicks is challenging long time Town Supervisor John Lawrence.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-22-26

State Police arrested 56 year old Joel Salinas of Bainbridge following a traffic stop on Chenango County Road 35 last Tuesday. Troopers observed a vehicle committing multiple violations, initiated a traffic stop, Troopers observed a sawed-off shot gun and other illegal weapons, Salinas was driving to sell the shotgun, the investigation resulted in the seizure of several other illegally possessed weapons. Salinas was charged with multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Sale of a Firearm, he was processed & transported to the Chenango County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.

Sidney Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire with smoke and flames visible Friday night at about 7:00 PM at 826 Circle Drive, heavy smoke was showing from the ridge of the roof. Sidney firefighters launched an aggressive interior and exterior attack and contained the fire to one apartment. Assistance was provided by Masonville, Unadilla, Sidney Center, Oneonta, Guilford & Harpursville fire departments, no injuries were reported, Sidney was back in service at about 8:30PM.

59 year old Dolores Barse of Sidney was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury for Welfare Fraud & Offering a false Instrument for Filing, for allegedly obtaining $14,203.00 dollars that she was not entitled to, and for providing a false information about her income with the Delaware County Department of Social Services in an effort to obtain public assistance benefits she was not entitled to. Barse was arraigned Thursday and was released & she was ordered to appear for a court conference on July 8th.

The State Department of Transportation is advising motorists to expect nightly single and periodic double lane closures at the junction of Interstate 81 northbound and State Route 17 westbound in the City of Binghamton, between the hours of 7:00 pm AND 6:00 am, beginning this Sunday, June 23, to facilitate concrete repairs. The work is expected to last until July 28, weather permitting. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar joined Broome County Executive Jason Garnar, and others to announce the activation of their full-time Strategic Response Group, which is comprised of a team of deputies charged with focusing on quality-of-life issues like high numbers of speeding vehicles or repeat traffic complaints; Frequent or repeated narcotic activities, property crimes; homeless persons and connecting with services; and Targeting enforcement of high crime areas with gun and gang related violence. More information is available at the Sheriff's office web page at gobroomecounty.com

A.M. NEWS Friday 6-21-24

State Police responded Sunday to 3410 Luther Street, Apartment 1 in the town of Union for a structure fire, Troopers attempted to put the house fire out utilizing fire extinguishers from their patrol vehicle, Troopers and Endwell fire members located 70-year-old Marino Panaro deceased in the entryway of the residence. Broome County Fire Investigators determined the origin of the fire to be in the area where Panaro was located, and the fire appears to be ruled accidental. An autopsy is scheduled to determine an official cause of death.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office and the Broome County Department of Social Services, announced that a homeless man that was living in a bus stop in the town of Dickinson, has returned home to his family. Earl Sutton had been living at the bus stop shelter where numerous people attempted to help him access various community services and find a permanent residence, but he refused any assistance. Sheriff Fred Akshar directed the Broome County Sheriff’s Office team to locate and contact Sutton's family, they found his Uncle James Sutton, in Toledo, Ohio, Officers found out that Earl Sutton had been missing for 2 years, earlier he had a bike accident that left him Mentally challenged, he had stopped taking his medication and disappeared. On September 8th, Earl Sutton went home to Ohio.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-12-23

In July, uniformed Broome County Deputies and members of the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force conducted a targeted enforcement within the Village of Endicott, focusing on the trafficking and distribution of weapons and narcotics. The targeted crime response during that month yielded a grand total of 20 felony arrests and 19 misdemeanor arrests were made, nearly all involving weapon and narcotics possession or distribution. 3 illegal shotguns and 1 illegal handgun were also confiscated during the targeted enforcement period in the Village of Endicott. During the same time frame, The Task Force also conducted 3 search warrants in the Village of Endicott, leading to a total of 17 felony charges and 10 Misdemeanors.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating a fatal pedestrian-train accident that occurred Monday night near the area of South Kelly Avenue in Endwell and resulted in the death of an adult male. The Broome County Sheriff's Office will provide further updates as the investigation concludes.

Delaware County Public Health has a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets today from 5PM-7PM, at the Stamford Fire Hall, more information is available at 607-832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro announced $180,000 is being delivered to Margaretville Memorial Hospital to address the shortage of Emergency Medical Services personnel in Delaware County. The funding is available through the Department of Health and Human Services, Margaretville Memorial Hospital will expand EMS training opportunities through its partnership with Delaware County EMS and SUNY Cobleskill.

The Small Business Resource Fair will be held September 21st from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, Sidney Community Cultural Center, Delaware County Chamber Of Commerce President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 8-21-23)

Pucci said that the event is free & open to all businesses and entrepreneurs, registration is available at delawarecounty.org.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 8-21-23

Binghamton Police & Firefighters responded Saturday to the report of shots fired & smoke coming from at 56 Howard Avenue. Binghamton police said that a man and woman were discovered inside after the fire was put out, they were taken to area hospital where they were later pronounced dead. The investigation is continuing.

Delaware County District Attorney's office announced that 26 year old John Macrabie of Walton, was arraigned on a 4 count indictment in Delaware County Court. Macrabie was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Disseminating Indecent Material to Minors & Criminal Sexual Act, he is accused of sending a child naked pictures of himself to entice sexual acts, which allegedly occurred, in the presence of a 2-year-old child. Macrabie pleaded not guilty, he was released to the supervision of the Delaware County Probation Department, the case is scheduled for a conference on September 5th.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Saturday to the apartments at 101 Hooper Road for complaint of shots fired. Deputies located a male suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen on the lawn, he was taken to Wilson Hospital and was in stable condition following surgery. 25 year old Jeffrey Gates of Endwell was charged with Assault with a Weapon, Criminal Use of a Firearm & Reckless Endangerment, he was taken to Broome County Central Arraignment and remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility, the investigation is continuing.

Several Area Fire departments responded to a fire at 72 chapel street in Windsor at about 6:20 this morning. Fire Fighters from Windsor, Sanitaria Springs, Harpursville, West Colesville, Susquehanna Pennsylvania responded to the scene. WCDO will have more details as they become available.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Friday to a report of a domestic incident in the Town of Barker. The victim reported that she had met 31 year old Ryan Storm of Endwell, 2 days prior on Snapchat. Storm began repeatedly calling her and sending threatening text messages, he then allegedly broke into her house to retrieve a personal possession & he threatened to rape her. Storm was charged with Burglary, Criminal Mischief & Harassment, he was arraigned, released & is due back in Town of Barker Court at a later date, an Order of Protection was issued on behalf of the victim.

Catholic Charities in Sidney is offering schools supplies & backpacks to local children in need, Spokesperson Penny McKnight explains:

(Penny McKnight 6-29-23)

More information is available by stopping at the Catholic Charities office in the Sidney Civic Center, or by calling 607-604-4071.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-29-23

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection announced a schedule change for planned work on the Delaware Aqueduct, with the project now scheduled to start in October of 2024. The project calls for shutting down a portion of the aqueduct in order to attach a bypass tunnel under the Hudson River, it was scheduled to begin in October of this year and last up to eight months. The shift in schedule was necessary to allow for additional pumps, as well as related drainage infrastructure and electrical support, to be installed to keep the construction zone dry and ensure worker safety during the repair of decades-old leaks.

Several Fire Companies responded Monday night to a fire at 242 Lippa Road in the town of Colesville. The fire was reported shortly after 10:00pm & the house was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived. No injuries have been reported, the investigation is continuing.

The Oxford Fire Department was dispatched to a structure Friday early Friday morning. 1 silo was destroyed, an adjacent was was saved by firefighters from several other area fire departments, no injuries to firefighters were reported, the property was vacant at the time of the blaze. The Chenango County Office of Emergency Services is investigating the cause of the fire.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 6-27-23

State Police arrested 53 year old Robert Covello of Endwell, after they executed a search warrant regarding an unlawful surveillance investigation. While at Covello’s residence, Investigators observed items indicative of narcotics sales and use, suspected cocaine, drug paraphernalia and a large amount of U.S. currency was seized. Covello has been charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell, Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Surveillance & Disseminating Unlawful Surveillance Images. Covello was processed & was transported to the Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

The State continues to closely monitor air quality for potential impacts from Canadian wildfires, as well as ozone and other pollutants. The current DEC forecast for Wednesday shows the potential for unhealthy air quality to impact most of the state with thick surface smoke overnight Wednesday. More information is available at airnow.gov

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-14-23

Fire Fighters from Franklin, Sidney Center & Wells Bridge responded to a Franklin barn & brush fire. Thursday afternoon at about 3:45 PM. Firefighters were at the scene until about 8:30 PM, no injuries were reported.

The Otsego County Office of Emergency Services reported that firefighters are continuing to fight a fire of brush & trees along the Otsego & Schoharie County line, the 2nd operational period was conducted yesterday, Fire fighters & EMS providers from Otsego, Delaware and Schoharie County expect to wrap up the the fires today, about 237 acres were affected, with 90% containment reported Thursday Afternoon.

Binghamton Police arrested 28 year old Christopher Frederick for 2nd degree attempted murder, criminal possession of a weapon and first-degree criminal use of a firearm, in connection with a shooting that occurred on Binghamton's North Side on February 25th, following the report of several shots being fired, and where a 22 year old man was injured with a gunshot wound to the chest. Frederick was arrested without incident in Endwell, he was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and sent to Broome County Jail.

The twice Annual "Coffee with the Chiefs" event will be held in Norwich on Saturday April 15th from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the Norwich McDonald's, local residents will have the chance to talk to new Norwich Police Chief Reuben Roach and City of Norwich Fire Department Chief Jan Papelino.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-14-23

The State Department of Health announced that laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza decreased by 19% from the prior week's report, but the flu remains widespread across the State for the 18th consecutive week. There were no influenza-associated pediatric deaths reported this week, there have been 9 reported this flu season. For the week ending February 4th, there were 2,374 lab-confirmed cases reported, 196 people were hospitalized with influenza statewide, a 48% decrease from the previous week.

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro hosted the 1st town hall meeting today at the Norwich City Fire Station, the Congressman told WCDO News what his constituents are concerned about:

(Molinaro 2-14-23)

Congressman Molinaro will hold a Broome County Town Hall on Thursday at 5:30 pm at the Endwell Fire Department, other meetings are being scheduled and will be announced shortly.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-10-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 53 year old Tracy Thomas of Oneonta for providing false information on a firearms transaction record in an attempt to purchase a firearm. Thomas was charged with Falsifying Business Records after an investigation into allegations that he provided false information on a firearms transaction record in an attempt to purchase a firearm at a local sporting goods store in the Town of Oneonta. Thomas was arraigned by Central Arraignment and was released on his own recognizance, he'll appear in the Oneonta Town Court on March 2nd.

19th District Congressman Marc Molinaro announced he will host an 11 county town hall meeting, 1 in each county in his District. The 1st Town Hall will be held on February 14th in Chenango County at the Norwich City Fire Station at 11:00 AM, a Broome County Town Hall will be held on Thursday February 16 at 5:30 pm at the Endwell Fire Department. other meeting are being scheduled and will be announced shortly.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were advised on February 1st by Colchester Police that a missing handgun related to an Order of Protection had been surrendered. The owner of the handgun, 53-year-old, Jeffrey Kaufman of Colchester, had been served an Order of Protection. which required all firearms to be surrendered to Deputies, Kaufman did possess a firearm after the issuance of this order, and it was subsequently surrendered later. Deputies arrested Kaufman on 1 count Criminal Contempt he was processed and issued an appearance ticket to Colchester Town Court at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a theft that occurred on Saturday, February 4th between the hours of 9:00pm and 11:30pm in the area of Route 79 and Alexander Rd in the Town of Barker. Several items, including a firearm were stolen from an unlocked 2005 Toyota Tacoma. Anyone who locates these items or has any information is asked to contact Detective O’Brien at 607-778-2334.

The Associated Press reported today that New York’s new law barring sales of bullet-resistant vests to most civilians doesn’t cover the type of armor worn by Payton Gendron of Conklin, when he killed 10 people at a Buffalo supermarket, May 14th. Gendron wore a steel-plated vest, which stopped a bullet fired at him by a security guard in the supermarket. New York’s law restricts sales of soft bullet-resistant vests to people who work in law enforcement and the military, plus people in certain other professions that require protective gear, that list has not been finalized.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-20-22

Oneonta Police arrested 31-year-old Terry DeCutler of Sidney and 34-year-old Nicholas DeCutler of Unadilla,, for 2nd degree murder, for the May 30th murder of Kaleb O'Neill in the alley near 6 Dietz Street. They were arraigned in City of Oneonta Court and were remanded to the custody of the Otsego County Sheriff pending court action on Wednesday. The investigation is continuing, Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Oneonta Police Department Detectives Division at (607) 432-1111.

State Troopers were dispatched Friday to a report of a drowning at Highland Park in the town of Union. When troopers arrived, a 12-year-old boy had already been pulled out of the pool by lifeguards and CPR was being performed. The 12-year-old was not breathing and had no pulse. Troopers, EMT & members if the Endwell Fire Department eventually had the 12-year-old breathing and did have a pulse when he was transported to Wilson Hospital, & he was later airlifted to Upstate University Hospital where he is still listed in critical condition.

The Grandparent Scam continues to pop up, where scammers try to rip off the elderly by posing. by phone as a troubled grandchild, Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond said that his Office has investigated this scam too many times:

(Sheriff DuMond 1-17-22)

Sheriff DuMond said that several people have unwittingly sent money to scammers in this instance, State Police announced that they are investigating another “grandparent scam” in Endwell where the scammer showed up in a Jeep, pictured on the state Police website that took advantage of a victim, causing a significant monetary loss. Investigators are looking for the public's help at (607) 775-1241.

State Police will be hosting a car seat check event at the Deposit Fire Station on January 25, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. Appointments are preferred but drive-ups are welcome, call (607)561-7605 or email at shannon.hartz@troopers.ny.gov.

The State Health Department & the Governor's Office announced that the COVID testing positivity rate statewide decreased to 12.9% Saturday. The state tested 397,524 people Saturday with 51,264 positive tests, Patient Hospitalization dropped by over 450 to 11,713; ICU patients dropped by 40 to 1613, the number of ventilators went up slightly to 910, and there were 154 deaths in Hospitals & Nursing Homes from COVID Saturday.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-22-21

State Police have updated their reports on the locating of 2 deceased people in a house in the town of Union last Wednesday.  The investigation has revealed that 49 year old Marc McKercher killed 48 year old Cynthia Pratt-Lyons & then took his own life.  The 2 were found deceased by State Police, Broome County Sheriff's Deputies & members of the Endwell Fire Department after they were dispatched to check on the welfare of a resident at a house on Hall Street.

Binghamton Firefighters responded Sunday Morning to a fire at an apartment house at 59 Main Street.  The fire was reported at about 11:40 Sunday Morning, 1 occupant was taken to an area hospital for smoke inhalation, the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-22-21

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 19 year old Anthony Kandalepas of Chesapeake, Virginia & a 17 year old juvenile from Jacksonville, Florida for Criminal Possession of a Weapon & Criminal Possession of Stolen Property.  Deputies responded to a report of a vehicle disabled in The Town of Milford, which was reported stolen out of Jacksonville.  A search led to the discovery of a loaded unregistered handgun, drug paraphernalia and other stolen items.  The juveniles were reported missing, the 17 year old was released into the custody of his parents, and the 14-year-old juvenile was released into the custody of Otsego County Child Protective Services.  Kandalepas was arraigned and remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on $10,000 cash or $20,000 bond. U.S. Department of Homeland Security is assisting with the investigation and additional charges may be pending.

The State Health Department reported that over 246,000 COVID tests were conducted Saturday with over 7900 positives, or about 3.2% of all tested.  Hospitalizations were down to 4,355, the lowest since December 3rd, the number in an ICU bed was down to 890 & the number on ventilators was down to 572. There were 54 COVID deaths Saturday.  The Department also reported the discovery of the first case of a COVID-19 P1 variant, or Brazilian variant, in a 90 year old Brooklyn resident with no travel history.

P.M. NEWS Friday 3-19-21

State Police and Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Hall Street in the town of Union to check on the welfare of the resident.  Troopers, Deputies & Endwell Fire Department members located 2 people were found deceased inside the home, they have been identified as 49-year-old Marc McKercher and 48-year-old Cynthia Pratts-Lyons, the investigation is continuing.

Chenango County Sheriff's Department arrested 46 year old Christina Clifford of Edmeston following an investigation into forged fraudulent checks being cashed in a Town of North Norwich business. Clifford was charged with 2nd degree Forgery &plus conspiracy & petty larceny, she was taken into custody without incident, & was released to on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of North Norwich Court at a later date.

The State Health Department reported that on Wednesday over 271,000 COVID tests were given statewide, with 2.87% testing positive.  Patient hospitalizations, the number of patients in an ICU bed & the number on ventilators continue to decline, there were 57 deaths from the virus.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be holding a vaccination clinic at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown Today.  Registration is up on the Otsego County Department of Health Website.

Chenango County Public Health will hold a Vaccine clinic today at the former Label Shopper Store in the South Plaza Center on State Route 12 in Norwich.  Registrations are required at co.chenango.ny.us; for groups outlined by the state Health Department.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-27-20

The Broome County Sheriff’s Department announced the arrest of Caleb Casteline of Apalachin for the fatal stabbing of Q-Quan Richardson of Binghamton, at a party in Endwell Wednesday.  Casteline was charged with 2nd degree murder and faces court action on the charge shortly.

The Delhi Village Police Department executed a search warrant on August 21st at 219 Main Street; they seized concentrated cannabis in a variety of forms, as well as LSD, cocaine, marijuana, oxycodone, packaging materials & $1,500 cash from suspected drug sales.  Delhi Police arrested 20-year-old Alana Blaustein of Delhi & 22-year-old Connor Guiseppone of Delhi on a variety of drug charges, both were arraigned in Delhi Town Court where & were released on their own recognizance pending future court action.

Utica Firefighters were called to a massive fire at the former CharlesTown Mall in Utica.    Firefighters from the Utica & surrounding Fire Departments responded at about 1:30 this morning, Utica city officials are advising residents in the eastern sections of the city to remain indoors with their windows shut due to the high winds whipping the smoke & ash around from the blaze.

The State Health Department announced another 791 positive COVID 19 cases on Wednesday statewide after over 83,000 tests were administered.  490 were hospitalized for the virus, 4 deaths were reported, bringing the state death toll to 25,309.

The Otsego County District Attorney’s office announced that Nicolas Meridy of Oneonta has pleaded guilty in a plea bargain arrangement & will serve 22 years to life.  Meridy was arrested along with several others following the murder of Kenneth Robinson in Worcester & the arson fire at Robinson house after the fatal shooting, in October of last year.

A variety of severe weather warnings have been issued throughout the region this afternoon, as severe weather pounded the region.  Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Rich Townsend 8-27-20)

A Tornado watch remains in effect through 7:00 PM throughout the WCDO Listening area .

Otsego County Department of Health is investigating 9 cases of coronavirus reported Wednesday, 5 of the cases are SUNY Oneonta students. The other 4 cases have been associated with a gathering of high school students. All cases are have been investigated and contacts are being notified.  Currently, Otsego County now reports 128 total confirmed cases, with 15 active cases, 1 person is hospitalized.  The Otsego County Health Department is holding another free COVID 19 testing this morning from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NOON at the former "Greenies" site on state route 7 in Otego, This testing site is for Otsego County residents only who preregister by calling 547-4279.

The Broome County Sheriff's department arrested 25 year old Keenan Johnson of the town of Chenango twice Tuesday.  Johnson reportedly had a dispute with his girlfriend, he was confronted by neighbors & displayed a handgun, he fled the scene, was located by deputies & was charged with Menacing and Criminal Possession of Marijuana before being released on an appearance ticket, he was arrested a short time after his release at the girlfriends residence, fled on a Motorcycle the chase was terminated due to public safety concerns.  Additional charges against Johnson are pending.

The Water System Staff in the Mount Upton Water District was notified Tuesday afternoon of a loss of pressure, which may increase the risk of contamination. The Health Department is advising district residents to boil water before drinking or using for food preparation. The repair has been made, and the Water District expects that the Boil Water notice could be cancelled later today after testing.

State Police arrested 32 Year Old Brent Fallon of Endwell for Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine, following an explosion & fully engulfed house fire on Wayne Street Sunday. Broome County fire investigators and State Police revealed that the basement had precursors for the manufacture of methamphetamine. Fallon was arrested and released on an appearance ticket returnable to the town Union Court on September 4th.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Department Investigators arrested 37 year old Amber Potts of Margaretville, on a Sealed Indictment Arrest Warrant issued by Delaware County Court. Potts was charged with 3 counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, for allegedly selling Hydrocodone on 3 occasions, from her Village of Margaretville residence. Potts was arraigned and remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility with no bail; more arrests and additional charges related to this investigation are anticipated.

Walton Town Supervisor Charles Gregory has died of a heart Attack, according to the Delaware County Board of Supervisors Clerk’s Office. Gregory became Walton Supervisor in 2016; he previously served as a Walton Village Trustee and served in the Walton Fire Department.

43-year-old Belven Fajardo of Endwell has been convicted of Attempted Arson; after he attempted to set fire to a Johnson City building using "Molotov Cocktails". Fajardo was arrested after he allegedly intended to cause damage to the building, following an earlier domestic dispute. Fajardo is scheduled to be sentenced on September 13. He faces a minimum of five years and a maximum of 25 years in state prison.

State Police arrested 46-year-old Greg Dyn of Richfield Springs for 5th degree Arson, after the troopers investigation determined that on January 21st, during an argument with his ex-girlfriend, Dyn had sent her pictures of some of her clothing and personal items that he had set on fire. Dyn was arraigned in the town of Exeter Court and was released on his own recognizance. An order of protection was issued against him & his next scheduled court date is January 31st.

State Police arrested 25-year-old Lisa VanDyke of Endwell for Falsely Reporting an Incident, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle & Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Interlock Device. Last November, Troopers responded to a report of a burglary in the town of Union, when VanDyke reported that her TV, video game console, and computer tablet had been stolen, troopers believe that VanDyke had falsely reported the thefts. Troopers attempted to locate VanDyke, she was observed driving with a suspended license, with a vehicle that did not have a court ordered ignition interlock device as required by a prior DWI conviction. VanDyke was issued tickets returnable to the town of Union Court on February 6th.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Department has charged 7 teenagers in connection with the fire that destroyed a railcar on the Leatherstocking Railroad Historical Association siding in Milford last October 3rd. Deputies stated that the teens had entered the railcar over a 2 day period, removed items from the railcar, set off the flair that caused the fire.

The Hillcrest Fire Department reported that it was 74-year-old Roberta Bush who died in a trailer fire Sunday night. The fire was reported at around 8:30 PM Sunday at 417 West Service Road, Bush was found in the back portion of the trailer after fire fighters extinguished the blaze.

Today, the players, coaches and families of the 2016 Little League World Series Champions Maine-Endwell will be treated to a full day at the State Capitol in Albany. State Senator Fred Akshar and Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo will host the events, which will feature resolutions recognizing the team's achievement on both the Senate and Assembly floors.

Federal Prosecutors last month announced charges against three members of the Sex Money Murder gang of the Bronx, which included Corey Brown, Josnel Rodriguez & Christopher Canada, for racketeering, firearms charges, & for the murder of Vincent Davis in July of 2012. Rodriguez & Brown were brought into court, but Canada was on the run from law enforcement, until he was apprehended by US Marshals & Oneonta Police in a Division Street Apartment yesterday afternoon. Canada was apprehended without incident & was returned to New York City to face prosecution.

Tomorrow will be the 21st annual "Doctors with A Heart" event, where dentists at several locations in the Southern Tier perform free basic dental services to the unemployed or uninsured. The event will run from 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon tomorrow at Progressive Dental at 101 South Board Street in Norwich, as well as their locations in Kirkwood, Endwell, & Montrose Pennsylvania, plus the Chenango Bridge dental office at 528 Main Street in Chenango Bridge. More information is available at 722-5464.

The 3rd Annual Franklin Volunteer Fire Department open house & Public Safety day on Sunday form 12:00 Noon until 3:00 PM. A variety of activities & demonstrations are scheduled, at the Franklin Fire House.

The 2016 Little League World Series Champion Maine-Endwell team will be honored in a ceremony on Saturday at 6:30 PM prior to the Binghamton Mets game against the Erie Sea Wolves. The 11 players, along with manager Scott Rush and his coaching staff will be recognized for their 24-0 season that finished with the championship last Sunday. Fans can purchase tickets for the B-Mets upcoming season-closing homestand at the NYSEG Stadium box office, by calling 723-METS or by visiting BMETS.COM.

City of Oneonta Police arrested 18-year-old Noah Graetz of Owings Mills Maryland & Hartwick College for Criminal possession of a Controlled substance & Criminal possession of marihuana. Oneonta Police Department Detectives received information regarding illegal narcotics and a large amount of marihuana on the Hartwick College campus; Police seized 6 grams of cocaine, 27 ounces of marijuana, & $2,150 cash. Graetz was held in the City of Oneonta Police Department pending arraignment in the City of Oneonta Court.

Delaware County Public Health announced that a raccoon has tested positive for Rabies in the town of Middletown. The Raccoon was sent to the State Rabies Lab for testing, the positive test results were received Wednesday. Officials said that there was 1 domestic animal and 1 human exposure; they are coordinating the Rabies Post Exposure Prophylaxis treatment that the adult will be receiving. The animal has been placed in quarantine for 6 months due to a short lapse in rabies vaccination status. The next scheduled rabies clinic is: Delhi Fire Station on October 19th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. More information is available at 832-5200 or delawarecountypublichealth.com.

In April, the Department of Defense ordered a stop shipment at Amphenol of Sidney, which led to a layoff of about 100 employees, an expected 2 year wait for the order to be lifted, but today, U.S Senator Charles Schumer, Congressman Chris Gibson & Amphenol leaders announced that the ordered was revered in 4 months, the federal red tape was cut through & the employees have returned to the Sidney facility. Senator Schumer responded:

(Schumer 8-29-16)

Congressman Gibson also discussed the reversal of fortune for Amphenol:

(Gibson 8-29-16)

Others who addressed the press conference today were Sidney mayor Andy Matviak, Amphenol General Manager Ryan Fisher & Amphenol CEO Adam Norwitt.

The Ithaca Police Department is opening a homicide investigation after one of two Ithaca College students stabbed on the Cornell campus early Sunday morning, was pronounced dead at Cayuga Medical Center. 19-year-old Anthony Nazaire of Brooklyn was killed, a 2nd student was injured, and was treated and released from a Syracuse area hospital. The incident occurred at around 2:00 AM Sunday at the conclusion of a campus event, several altercations broke out as students left the hall, and police are looking at video recorded by witness on their phones.

The Maine-Endwell Little League Team beat South Korea, 2-1, to win the Little League World Series on Sunday, becoming the first US team to win the title since 2011 and the first team from New York to win since 1964. Maine-Endwell ended its perfect season 24-0. The Team will be welcomed back with a parade this morning at 11:15 a.m. starting at Hooper Road and Watson Boulevard, ending at the little league field at Struggle Road.

Chenango County Sheriff’s department arrested 32 year old Corey Weidman following a traffic stop in the Town of Norwich for an equipment violation. Weidman exited the car and dropped a warm marihuana pipe with burnt and un-burnt marihuana; he was charged with unlawful possession of marihuana & was released on an appearance ticket for Town of Norwich Court at a later date. Deputies then arrested Weidman’s passenger 26 year old Heather Steigerwald of Oxford for criminal contempt possession of a controlled substance, for allegedly possessing two narcotic prescription pills concealed in her bra and unlawful possession of marihuana, she was processed and released on an appearance ticket to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Governor Cuomo announced that the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and Office of Fire Prevention and Control will visit the state’s colleges and universities to conduct inspections, education programs, and a series of campus fire safety education training days. In the last year, Office of Fire Prevention and Control has conducted 23,689 inspections.

The Maine-Endwell Little League team is going to the Little League World Series in Williamsport Pennsylvania following their 6-2 win over Keystone Saturday night. Maine-Endwell's first opponent is Warwick North Little League from Rhode Island, the game will begin at 3:00 PM this Thursday and will be televised by ESPN.

NYSEG is reporting that hundreds are still without power this morning following the damaging weekend storms. Chenango County had over 1100 without power late this morning, mainly in Norwich, New Berlin & Preston. In Otsego County, over 1300 were without power, scattered mainly in the middle & northern sections, Delaware County had a little over 100 without power, mostly around Andes and Downsville. NYSEG opened a distribution center at the Norwich Fire Department and is handing out free bottled water.

The New York State Health Department today announced that the more than 2.8 million people signed up for health insurance through the end of the 2016 open enrollment period on January 31, 2016. The data show that enrollment in the Marketplace increased by 33 percent, or nearly 700,000 enrollees from the previous enrollment period; 92 percent of those enrolled through the Marketplace report that they did not have health insurance at the time they applied.

The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for February 2015. Rates are calculated following procedures prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state’s unemployment rate relies in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. The State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.8% in February 2015, Locally, chenango's rate was ar 6.9%, Delaware countyu's rate was at 7.3% & Otwsego county's rte was at 6.8% in february.

26-year-old Nigel Saunders of Binghamton was sentenced in Broome county court Friday to 25 years to life in prison, for 2nd degree murder. Saunders & Julian Talamantez were arrested for breaking into a Binghamton area home, beating & stabbing the 2 occupants and setting fire to the residence in 2013, Jordan Dordell was died following the attack, his fiancée was injured. Talamantez was sentenced to 40 years in jail for his role in the killing in Broome County Court last October.

Law Enforcement officials attended the Funeral services this morning for State Trooper Glen Woods, who passed away due to natural causes last week. the 45 year old trooper worked for Troop C at the Endwell barracks, Donations can be made to the “Glen Woods Family Scholarship Fund” at NBT Bank of Vestal.

State Police arrested 21-year-old Dustin Mangino for 4th degree Arson & Criminal Possession of Marihuana.  The arrest follows a joint investigation by State Police and the Broome County Fire Investigation Unit into a house fire at 2705 Yale Street in Endwell.  Investigators determined that the fire was recklessly caused by Mangino while cooking Butane Hash Oil in the kitchen, he sustained 2nd degree burns to his face and arms. A search warrant uncovered over 2 pounds of Marihuana. Mangino was arraigned in the Town of Union Court, he was released on bail, the investigation is continuing.

Governor Cuomo issued a warning to employers not complying with the state’s minimum wage laws, failure to comply can result in fines, charges and criminal punishment. Resources, including one-on-one support and a streamlined reporting process, are available to help businesses comply with the minimum $8.00 per hour now in effect.  The minimum wage in the State will increase to $8.75 this December 31st, & $9.00 on December 31st  2015. The Department of Labor is offering additional resources at labor.ny.gov.

About 3,000 firefighters & 80 fire trucks came to Owego yesterday to pay their respects to captain Matthew Porcari of the Owego Fire Department,  Porcari died Monday night when a floor collapsed in a burning building in Newark Valley,  firefighter Daniel Gavin was injured in that incident, he was eventually taken to the burn unit at Upstate Medical center in Syracuse for treatment.  The fire occurred last Monday night at 871 Chamberlain Road in Newark valley at around 11:00 PM.

STATE OFFICIALS will visit the SOUTHERN TIER this week, to discuss the NY SAFE ACT.  State police announced that Teams made up of members of the New York State Police and Division of Criminal Justice Services will be available to meet local law enforcement and answer questions from New Yorkers regarding NY SAFE Act tomorrow at 12:00 PM at the Endwell Volunteer Fire Hall at 3508 Country Club Road

The Broome county sheriffs department arrested 24-year-old Lauren Smith of Binghamton, after she allegedly drove into a deputy’s patrol car while she was intoxicated at around 2:30 Saturday morning on Prospect Street in Binghamton.  Deputies reported that Smith's 1-year-old child was in the back seat and was not properly fastened in a child safety seat,  and that Smith’s BAC  was .18%, more than twice the legal limit.  Smith was charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated under Leandra's Law and endangering the welfare of a child.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 1-17-13

Yesterday's fire at Matteson Hall on the SUNY Oneonta campus has been ruled accidental.  The investigators from the Oneonta Fire Department reported that the fire started as from a malfunction and the improper use of an electric plug strip on the 3rd.  Inspectors ruled tat Matteson Hall is structurally sound, but the electrical infrastructure and 3rd floor fire alarms have been compromised.  Disaster Clean-Up from Endwell, has been retained to clean the third floor, which  is expected to take at least two weeks.  The college will continue to offer shelter at Chase Gymnasium for students displaced by the fire & a plan for long-term housing is under development now. 177 students were affected.  No injuries were reported.

The state labor department announced that in December, the State's economy added 34,300 private sector jobs,  the state’s overall job gain to 123,200. the state reached an all time high private sector job count of 7,353,000.  the  December unemployment rate fell from 8.3% to 8.2%.  the upstate counties rate  dropped from 7.9% to 7.8%.