WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-29-23

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

Hill City Celebrations will host the First Night Celebration at the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street New Year's Eve, spokesperson Gabby Argo explains:

(Gabby Argo 12-29-23)

Hill City Celebrations’ First Night is made possible by donations from many local businesses Organizations and individuals, More information is available at hillcitycelebrations.com or follow Hill City Celebrations on Facebook.

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

(Joe Angelino 12-29-23)

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

WCDO NEWS THURSDAY 12-28-23

The United States Attorney’s Office announced that 33 year old Dupray Jordan of Binghamton entered a guilty plea in US District Court for possessing fentanyl and methamphetamine with the intent to sell, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, in connection with a warrant executed in November of 2021. Jordan faces up to 20 years in prison, a series of fines, when he is sentenced on May 8, 2024 in Syracuse.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-27-23

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office is looking to hire Registered Professional Nurse for positions at the County Correctional Facility, for more information and to apply visit: co.chenango.ny.us or call Personnel at 607-337-1470.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 45 year old Tracy Boyer of Columbus following a six-month investigation involving multiple complaints of burglaries and thefts. Boyer was working as a Home Health Aide, she is accused of stealing from her clients, she has been charged with 2nd and 3rd degree grand larceny, 2 counts of 2nd degree burglary, 3 counts of conspiracy, & making a false written statement, she faces court action shortly.

The State Division of Consumer Protection reminds shoppers of laws that protect consumers about holiday returns. The Department recommends that consumers carefully review and understand what to look for when reviewing return and refund policies. If the retailer does not post a return policy, the law requires the retailer to accept returns of unused, undamaged merchandise within 30 days of the purchase date, with a receipt. For retailers that allow returns, State law does not require refunds to be given in any specific manner. Consumers having difficulty obtaining a refund are encouraged to file a complaint at dos.ny.gov/file-consumer-complaint

A.M. NEWS 12-26-23

Now that Christmas has passed, it's time to think about what to do with some of the items, and if they are recyclable, Tyson Robb of Delaware County Solid Waste explains:

(Tyson Robb 12-26-23)

More information is available at (607) 865-5805 or through your own County Solid Waste management Department.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will return this year to honor fallen State Trooper Christopher Skinner, who served for 13 years & was killed in a hit and run in 2014 while conducting a routine traffic stop on Interstate 81 in the Town of Chenango. This Year's Blood Drive will be TODAY at Five Mile Point Fire Company in Kirkwood, from 12 to 6 pm, appointments are available at RedCrossBlood.org, call 1(800) Red Cross or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 32 year old Keith Tompkins of Oxford for several counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 9 counts of Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, after deputies observed a male, laying on the floor in the back of the vehicle, attempting to conceal himself by hiding under automotive parts. Tompkins had an active arrest warrant out of the Village of Oxford Court for Unlawful Fleeing of a Police Officer. Tompkins was in possession of over 2 ounces of crack cocaine, about 4 ounces of crystal Methamphetamine, 1,150 wax envelopes of Fentanyl, packaging material, digital scales, and over $2,000 in cash from suspected drug sales. Tompkins was arraigned and was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility without bail. Tompkins is to appear in Chenango County Court at a later date.

.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-21-23

Acting State Police Superintendent Dominick Chiumento today honored 232 new State Troopers as they graduated from the 213th session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy. The ceremony was held at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. Today’s graduation increases the State Police ranks to 4,781 sworn members. 26 of the new Troopers will be assigned to Troop C in Sidney.

Part of the Bail Reform Controversy in New York State over the last few years is that there is no drug court, and people arrested for drug offenses can not be held on bail, Current Assemblyman & former Norwich Police Chief Joe Angelino told WCDO News of the consequences of these changes:

(ANGELINO 12-21-23)

Angelino said that there is an anti-police bias among many of his colleagues in the New York City Dominated Assembly, and he said he is waiting for the pendulum to swing back again in favor of law enforcement agencies.

Delaware County Sheriff's office arrested 60 year-old John Necci of Portlandville after deputies conducted a traffic-stop for Speeding Sunday on State Highway 23 in the Town of Davenport. Necci was traveling at about 80 miles per hour in a posted 55 mile per hour zone, Deputies stopped Necci, he was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and Speeding, he was released and directed to appear in the Davenport Town Court on a later date to answer those charges.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-21-23

32 year old Kyle Oakley of South Kortright pleaded guilty to 3rd degree Burglary in Delaware County Court. Oakley was charged following an investigation of forced entry into a seasonal residence during March of 2022. A Deputy responded to the crime scene on March 8, 2022, after the homeowner reported damage to his front door, the Deputy recovered a sweatshirt which was sent to the State Police Crime Lab for DNA extraction, Oakley was subsequently arrested by the Sheriff’s Department. Oakley was sentenced to a 5-year term of felony probation supervision, he was ordered to pay $1,000 in restitution to the homeowner, if he violates probation supervision, he faces a possible resentencing of up to 2 and 1/3 to 7 years in state prison.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $25 million in capital grants will be made available to help volunteer fire departments upgrade their facilities and equipment. The grants will be administered by the state’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, fire companies have until April 30 2024 to respond to the request for applications at dhses.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-19-23

The United Way of Mid Rural New York has increased their fundraising totals by 12% in the last week alone, as they head for the end of their annual fundraising campaign, according to Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco:

(Elizabeth Monaco 12-19-23)

More information about the annual campaign is available at their Norwich Office at 607-334-8815, or by going to uwmrny.org.

ACHIEVE in Norwich gave a tour of their new facility at East Main Street in Norwich yesterday, the renovated facility will offer a 200 capacity multi-purpose meeting space, a cafe & kitchen for job skills training, a nursing station, Hoyer Lift Systems and a community center. Achieve is a non-profit organization that provIdes support & services to more than 2200 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Broome, Chenango & Tioga Counties, more information is available at achieveny.org.

The 213th State Police Academy Graduation, will be held on Thursday, at 11:00 AM at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center, Albany. 232 new Troopers will graduate from the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy, they will then be assigned to the Troop following graduation.

Commerce Chenango announced that there is still time to register for the Leadership Chenango Class for 2024. The Class of 2024 will be facilitated by Melissa Stagnaro, it will kick off with an orientation and two-day retreat in February. The class will meet twice monthly from March to October and conclude with a final class and graduation in November. Tuition is $1,750, the application is available at commercechenango.com, more information is available at (607) 334-1400 or via email at info@chenangony.org.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the application for the Excelsior Scholarship for new applicants for the Spring 2024 term is now open. Students from households with federal adjusted gross incomes up to $125,000 are eligible, Students must Plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year college; Complete 30 credits per year towards their program of study and must be on track to graduate with an associate degree in two years or a bachelor's degree in four years. more information is available at webapps.hesc.ny.gov, Applications will be accepted through February 2, 2024.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-19-23

Otsego County Officials announced that several roads are closed due to flooding conditions, including County Highway 48 between Chamberlain Hill and Downey Road Spur in Otego, County Highway 4 between Mill Street and Hilton Street in the Town of Butternuts, Miller Road in Pittsfield, Bemis Road from State Highway 51 to Pegg Road in Morris. In Delaware County, State Route 30 in Roxbury has flooding issues, officals in all around counties advise motorists to turn around if they find flooded roads & report them to authorites as soon as possible. Motorists can check 511ny.org for road closures.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office held a public meeting Monday afternoon, Investigators announced that the occupant of 18 Richards Avenue, 60-year-old Desmond Moan, allegedly fired a gun inside his home severing a gas line. NYSEG was called to 24 Richards Avenue around 8 am Saturday after a report of the smell of gas, that was followed by another report at 14 Richards Ave for a similar issue, then 18 Richards Avenue exploded, the technician was uninjured. The Town of Oneonta code enforcement office has waived fees for building permits for those whose homes were damaged in the blast.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-18-23

The heavy rain has slowed down & is changing over to snow showers in some location this afternoon, local Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO News that there could be some isolated minor flooding:

(Rich Townsend 12-18-23)

Delaware County DPW Commissioner Jim Thomas reported some roads were flooded earlier today, including State Route 357, which was closed between County Route 14 and State Route 28 in Franklin, also Flooding on State Route 10 slowed traffic between Peaks Brook Road in Delhi and County Route 16, 1 lane traffic was being directed by DOT flaggers, County Route 18 above Delhi & County Route 9 were also closed earlier this afternoon. The Otsego County Sheriff's office announced road closures at Piermott Lane and Wileytown Road in the Town of Hartwick, County Highway 48 between Chamberlain Hill and Downey Road Spur in Otego, County Highway 4 between Mill Street and Hilton Street in the Town of Butternuts, County Highway 29 in the town of Springfield & Miller Road in the Town of Pittsfield. Updated road information will posted at 511ny.org.

The Delaware County Toys for Tots Campaign collected 1300 Items and many Cash Donations, which will support Nearly 300 Delaware County Families and 600 Children this Christmas season. This year's campaign was a joint effort from the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce & Delaware Opportunities, with collection boxes at over 20 businesses.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will return this year to honor fallen State Trooper Christopher Skinner, who served for 13 years & was killed in a hit and run in 2014 while conducting a routine traffic stop on Interstate 81 in the Town of Chenango. This Year's Blood Drive will be held on December 26 at Five Mile Point Fire Company in Kirkwood, from 12 to 6 pm, appointment are available at RedCrossBlood.org, call 1(800) Red Cross or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office will participate in the next Shop with a Cop event tomorrow. 36 children were selected by area school district to participate, they will shop with Deputies, officers from the Cooperstown & Oneonta Police Departments & SUNY Oneonta Police tomorrow.

The State Department of Health reminds New Yorkers to get up to date on vaccines that are available to protect against flu, COVID-19, and RSV, before holiday gatherings and travel. The CDC issued a announced to health care providers that there are low vaccination rates against flu, COVID-19, and RSV and ,State Health Commissioner McDonald declared that influenza is now prevalent in New York State.?There have been two pediatric flu-associated deaths in the state this season; New York State flu trends on the Department's?Flu Tracker, at nyshc.health.ny.gov.

58-year-old Joy LaBarr of Binghamton was charged with stealing nearly $32,000 in State pension payments intended for her deceased father-in-law, according to the State Comptroller's office and Broome County District Attorney Michael Korchak. LaBarr’s father-in-law, Jack Burnett, retired in 2006 from the Binghamton Housing Authority. Under the pension option he chose, his wife was to continue receiving payments after his death, however, she predeceased him, so payments should have stopped upon his death in December 2020, No one from the family reported his passing. LaBarr was charged with grand larceny. She was arraigned in Broome County Court & is due back in court on January 12th.

As of mid December, the United Way of Mid Rural New York campaign has reached 50% of its $425,000 goal for Chenango County, about 51% of the Delaware County Goal of $15,000 and 32% of their stated Otsego County Goal of of $80,000. The campaigns will close their annual fundraising campaign on December 31, for the new United Way of Mid Rural New York, more information is available at 607-334-8815, or go to the organization’s website at uwmrny.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-14-23

State Police are reminding all State Pistol Permit holders that State Law requires Pistol Owners to re-certify a carry concealed pistol permit every 3 years. The re-certification requirement for premises and employment pistol permits is every 5 years. Re-certification & status of a Pistol Permit is available at firearms.troopers.ny.gov, more information is available at gunsafety.ny.gov.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Souley Pertilla-Camara on an outstanding warrant for criminal possession of a weapon, He is described as a black male, 5'10" 190 pounds with black hair & brown eyes, Anyone with information on Pertilla-Camara is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the tip line at (607) 778-1196.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-12-23

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the Town of Smithville on December 8, that resulted in the arrest of 37 year old Troy Dibble of Smithville. Dibble was taken in custody, he was wanted on a felony arrest warrant for Reckless Endangerment, for allegedly firing numerous rounds from a handgun into a vehicle that was occupied. The investigation also uncovered Dibble's drug sales from within the residence, Office members recovered Heroin, Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and numerous handguns. Dibble was charged with Criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of stolen property, criminal possession of a weapon, Criminally using drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest & several other charges, he was arraigned & was remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on cash bail pending future court action.

A new federal charge was filed Monday against 28 year old Mufid Alkhader, who is accused of firing a shotgun outside a synagogue in Albany. Alkhader was arrested Thursday for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, he was additionally charged Monday with conspiracy to make a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, he was not eligible to buy a firearm because of a previous protective order, so he had a friend buy the shotgun on his behalf. Alkhader is being held without bail.

2024 could bring a host of new laws next year in Albany, Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO News that he is concerned about the pro-criminal and anti-police attitude of some of his New York City Colleagues:

(Angelino 12-12-23)

Angelino said that he felt that the new Clean Slate bill was unnecessary as there was already a mechanism to have criminal records expunged through the courts for those who have stayed out of trouble after jail, and he felt that the adjustments to the Bail Reform Laws have had little consequence.

The State Office of Cannabis Management has issued a recall on “Jenny’s Zee Zee Gummies" adult-use cannabis product.” The recall states that the products did not undergo the required testing for consumer safety and product quality. the product in question was sold between September 4th and November 1st, consumers should contact the dispensary where it was purchased for more information.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-12-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced that the investigation into Saturday’s gas explosion on Richards Avenue in Oneonta is still ongoing, and following acquiring information from examination of the scene, interviews, and forensic examinations, they concluded that an action by the resident, 60 year old Desmond Moan resulted in a non-intended natural gas leak, The escaping gases made contact with an ignition source which resulted in the explosion. Inspections and damage assessment is still ongoing, but currently there has been over 50 property parcels, and over 60 residents and their families affected. Initially 43 residents were displaced. The American Red Cross is working with the families providing community resources and services, The State of Emergency remains in effect.

NYSEG reports that about 600 customers are still without power in Delaware & Otsego Counties, following Sunday's heavy rain & snowfall., crews are working to restore power as soon as possible.

The State Police announced it had the highest Trooper candidate processing turnout in over a decade. Over 1,100 candidates attended processing weekend. Trooper candidate processing took place at the New York State Police Academy in Albany, on the weekend of December 2. Candidates can learn about becoming a New York State Trooper and sign up to take the exam today at joinstatepolice.ny.gov. Applications are being accepted until March 4, 2024.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-11-23

The Town of Oneonta has adjusted the restricted area to the public to properties close to the area around Saturday's explosion & fire at Richards Avenue in Oneonta's West End. Residents within the affected area will be allowed to secure their homes from the outside only, Town of Oneonta Code Enforcement will be on scene with NYSEG to assist residents, the Code Enforcement Office phone number is 607-432-8606. The phone number for town hall is 607-432-2900. A representative from Mobile Crises Assessment Team is at the Oneonta Town Hall today and Wednesday at starting at 10:00 AM for anyone who needs assistance, their phone number is 315-732-6228.

NYSEG is reporting over 3000 customers without power this afternoon, following the heavy wet snow over the region. Crews are working to restore power as quickly as possible. Most of the power outages were in the Middle & Eastern townships in Delaware County.

The Unadilla Fire was dispatched to a possible structure fire in the town of Unadilla on Kilkenny Road, at about 4:15 Saturday afternoon. Additional personnel were called in from Franklin, Wells Bridge, and Sidney Fire departments, it took approximately 25 minutes to get the fire knocked down.

Delaware County Officials are aware of a complaint filed in the Northern District of New York by The Reporter. Officials can not make any comment at this time as the matter is in pending litigation, but officials deny all claims against the County as well as any individual named as a defendant in that matter, and will vigorously defend the action. The County was sued last week by the Reporter, as they claim that the action by the Board of Supervisors to remove The Reporter as the County's official paper for the publishing of legal notices, was in retaliation for coverage of county affairs by the Reporter's staff.

State Senator Joseph Griffo of presented the New York State Senate Empire Awards to a few Chenango County businesses recently. Griffo announced that the awards went to Golden Artist Colors of New Berlin, Preferred Mutual Insurance Company of New Berlin, Service Pharmacy of Sherburne & The Sherburne News.

A man was arrested Thursday afternoon after he fired a shotgun in the parking area of an Albany synagogue. No one was injured during the incident at the Temple Israel and the suspect was an unidentified 28-year-old man, who was quickly arrested, he made "threatening statements," during the incident. Police said that an early childhood center with at least two dozen preschoolers were on the premises. The parents were contacted, the facility went immediately into lockdown, Federal law enforcement is currently leading the investigation.

Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed the "Clean Slate Bill" which allows for some people to have their criminal records "Cleaned" of their criminal activity after a certain period of time, Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino, who also has a lengthy career in Law Enforcement, explains that he voted against the bill:

(Joe Angelino 12-7-23)

Prior to serving in the Assembly, Angelino served as the chief of Police in the City of Norwich, he is one of a small number of people from Law Enforcement to serve as lawmakers in Albany.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County will have their annual Light up a Life Tree Lighting ceremony this afternoon into this evening, Spokesperson Sarah Green explains:

(Sarah Green 12-7-23)

More information about their programs are available at hospicechenango.org.

Otsego County is seeking full-time Dispatchers for their 911 Communication system. The position involves responsibility for receiving calls at the County Communications Center and dispatching law enforcement, fire and medical emergency personnel and equipment as needed, Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma is required, Candidates should have a clean criminal record, applications are available at otsegocounty.com/departments/personnel

State Comptroller's office has completed audits of municipalities around the state, an audit of the Town of Colesville found that Officials did not always use a competitive process when purchasing goods or services and some officials were unfamiliar with the town's procurement policy requirements. In the village of Greene, officials developed a comprehensive investment program but did not effectively manage the program, they did not prepare monthly cash flow forecasts to estimate funds available for investment or monitor investments and did not formally solicit interest rate quotes or consider other legally permissible investment options.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 12-7-23

The Cornell Law School First Amendment Clinic and Greenberg Traurig, LLP filed suit against Delaware County, its Board of Supervisors, and its County Attorney Amy Merklin on behalf of news outlet The Reporter. The Complaint alleges that County officials violated the news outlet’s rights under the 1st & 14th Amendments when they revoked The Reporter’s designation as an official county paper in retaliation for its coverage, Attorney Heather Murray comments:

(Heather Murray 12-7-23)

This Morning, one county official, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated that as of Wednesday night, none of the County Board or County Attorney Merklen have seen the lawsuit, and that they can not comment on pending litigation.

State Police is looking for the public’s assistance in identifying the 2 men who entered the Dollar General in Marathon on October 30th & purchased a gift card worth $500, allegedly using five fraudulent $100 bills. The men left in a dark colored sedan with what appeared to be a white license plate. The males are described to both be dark skinned, the pictures are available at the State Police website, Anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at (607)561-7400.

State Police are asking for the public's assistance in locating 42 year old Gabrielle Becker, who is missing from Roxbury, since November 24th. She is described as a white female, 5'7", 130 pounds with light brown shoulder length curly hair. Becker does not have a vehicle & maybe utilizing public transportation, anyone with information is asked to contact State Police at 561-7400.

State Police & other state agencies responded to a commercial vehicle crash at I-88 in Duanesburg, Tuesday morning. The investigation has determined a tractor-trailer traveling exited the road and traveled down a steep ravine, carrying multiple large cylinders containing compressed natural gas. The driver was removed and transported to Albany Medical Center with serious injuries and is currently listed in critical condition. I-88 was closed between exit 24 and exit 25 for the investigation & clean up, there were no home or business evacuations & there was no fire or explosion as a result of this crash. The name of the driver will not be released at this time. The investigation into the cause of this crash is ongoing.

The American Red Cross Blood Drive is holding 2 blood drives in Oneonta Today, 1 drive will be held at the A.O. Fox Hospital Levene Center from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, another is being held at the Hunt College Union at SUNY Oneonta from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Appointments can be made with the Blood Donor App, at redcrossblood.org or at 1-800 Red Cross.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released a new report that confirmed, that taxpayers moved out of New York State reached its peak in 2020, when the state was the 1st to have outbreaks of the COVID 19 virus. Net-out migration Declined Significantly in 2021, But Still Exceeded Pre-pandemic Levels, the report found more than one of every 100 resident personal income tax filers left New York state in 2020, with net out-migration 400% higher in 2020 compared to 2019. The full report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-5-23

31 year old Caleb Lane of Franklin pleaded guilty to Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child. On August 25, 2022, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a cyber tip that an individual account had downloaded a sexually explicit image of a child in Franklin, records were seized from the Microsoft Corporation and on September 29, 2023, Lane was arrested and charged with 2 counts of Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Minor. Lane will be sentenced to a ten-year period of felony probation supervision and will be required to register as a sex offender.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-4-23

Helios Care will hold a special meeting for those grieving during the holidays, social worker Inda Fitch explains:

(Inda Fitch 12-4-23)

The event will be held Saturday December 9th from 2:00 to 3:00 PM at the Meridale Community Church on State Route 10, more information is available at HeliosCare.org or by calling 607-432-5525.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-1-23

Unadilla will have their holiday celebration tomorrow at various locations around the village, Unadilla Chamber President Jackie Carey explains:

(Jackie Carey 12-1-23)

Carey said that shops around the village will also be having special holiday sales throughout the day Saturday.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-30-23

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discussed a proposal to toughen penalties in the Do Not Call bill to crack down on robocalls, robotexts, and AI scams, as Americans receive 4 billion robocalls every month, many of them from scammers:

(Gillibrand 11-30-23)

Gillibrand said that a lot needs to be learned about the Artificial intelligence phone scams, which can feature Voice cloning, which allows a scammer to mimic or impersonate the voice of an individual’s loved ones in order to steal money or information.

A federally housed inmate at the Broome County Correctional Facility is facing 17 felony charges after investigators found fentanyl, PCP and other contraband hidden in his cell. On October 24th, the Corrections Criminal Investigations Unit conducted cell searches, 41 year old Freddie Brown of Baldwinsville was charged with multiple Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, 11 Counts of Promoting Prison Contraband, Officers seized fentanyl, PCP, synthetic cannabis, & tobacco, Brown was arraigned for the charges in the Town of Dickinson Court earlier this month.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 46 year old Joseph Ogborn of Otego for possessing social media accounts not listed on the sex offender registry. Ogborn is a level 3 sex offender, he was charged with 2 counts of Sex Offender Failure to Register, he was located today by investigators and parole officers and taken in to custody, bail was recommended by the Otsego County District Attorney's Office at $5,000 cash, $5,000 credit card and $50,000 bond.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 11-30-23

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Corey Valdez on an outstanding warrant for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, he is described as a white male 5'6" tall about 175 pounds with black hair & brown eyes, anyone with information on the location of Valdez is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the tip line at (607) 778-1196. -

Attorney General Letitia James today announced the takedown of a major drug trafficking ring that was distributing heroin and fentanyl, as well as powder and crack cocaine in Rensselaer, Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, and Dutchess counties. The takedown resulted in the indictment of 25 individuals charged with 164 crimes and recovered cocaine, heroin laced with fentanyl, which have a street value of approximately $350,000 plus 4 handguns, 2 large capacity ammunition feeding devices, and the seizure of over $50,000 in cash.

A Lawsuit was filed in Broome County Supreme Court against the Vestal School District where a former Vestal High School student alleges that economics teacher Robert Carr asked her to meet him, he allegedly kissed the victim numerous times, groped her inappropriately and continued to force sexual activity upon her until she moved to the state of Texas and changed her phone number. The lawsuit claims that School Officials did not take any action against Carr after learning of the accusations.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-29-23

On Tuesday, Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies assigned to the US Marshal’s Regional Fugitive Task Force arrested 22 year old Nathan Williams Jr. of Endicott, at 68 Thorp Street in the City of Binghamton. Williams was wanted by the Endicott Police Department for Murder in connection with the shooting death of 25-year-old Molique Dawson in Endicott in July. The Metro SWAT Team of the Binghamton Police Department executed the search warrant and Williams was successfully taken into custody after a 5 hour standoff, Williams was transported to the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility, arraigned at Central Arraignment and is currently being held without bail.

Hill City Celebrations to Host Oneonta Festival of Lights in Neahwa Park and First Night Celebration at the Foothills Performing Arts Center. The Festival of Lights Begins on December 16 through January 1st. Organizers stated that anyone interested in building a display for the Festival of Lights should Email firstnightoneonta@gmail.com by this Thursday November 30th, with set-ups beginning December 7. More information will be available at hillcitycelebrations.com/festival-of-lights, or on their Facebook page.

Applications are now open for Leadership Chenango, which is a 10 month course designed to inspire participants to bring out their leadership skills. Topics will include local government, agriculture, education, social services, the non-profit sector, judicial system, economic development, business and entrepreneurism, tourism, and health care. More information, contact Commerce Chenango at (607) 334-1400 or via email at info@chenangony.org. The application is available online at www.commercechenango.com. To be considered for the Class of 2024, completed applications must be submitted no later than 4 pm. on Friday, December 17.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-28-23

State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation at Binghamton arrested 48 year old Stacie Congdon of Windsor for 3rd degree Grand Larceny. An investigation revealed that while volunteering for the Windsor Town Fair, Congdon made several unauthorized debit card purchases and cash withdrawals totaling over $10,000 between May and September 2023. Congdon was arrested and then turned over to the Broome County Correctional Facility for Arraignment. On September 29, Congdon was arrested for 2nd degree Grand Larceny, for allegedly stealing over $50,000 from the nonprofit, Punch Out Parkinson’s Inc.

NY State of Health's annual open enrollment period for is open for those looking to get or change their health insurance. New Yorkers have until December 15th, to renew or enroll in a Qualified Health Plan for health insurance starting January 1, 2024, more information is available at 1-855-355-5777 or nystateofhealth.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-27-23

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is being sued by former aide Brittany Commisso, who claims that Cuomo sexually harassed her while he was still in office. Commisso filed the case against the ex-governor in state Supreme Court in Albany on Wednesday, she was 1 of 11 women who accused Cuomo of sexual misconduct, leading to his resignation in 2021, he has denied the allegations.

P.M. NEWS Friday 11-24-23

Members of the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force arrested Jade Pittsley Tuesday, she was wanted by the U.S. Marshals in Albany on an arrest warrant for escaping from federal custody. Pittsley was under the supervision of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and was afforded an opportunity to complete the final portion of her sentence at a halfway house in Albany to assist in her reentry to the community, she failed to show up & a warrant was issued for her arrest. Pittsley was located in Johnson City where she was observed leaving a retail store and, as she attempted to get into a nearby vehicle, task force members took her into custody. Officers found more than 40 grams of methamphetamines in her possession, she was transported to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office and charged with felony narcotics possession.

The annual Parade of Lights will return to North Broad Street for its 27th year at 6 pm. this Saturday, November 25. Mindy Chawgo of the Norwich BID told WCDO news about the festivities:

(Mindy Chawgo 11-24-23)

The parade currently has more than 100 entries, and Groups interested in participating should Register by calling Chawgo at 607-226-2211.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Gina Donato on an outstanding warrant for possession of a controlled substance. Donato is a white female 5'2" 190 pounds with brown hair & hazel eyes, anyone with information should contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office to gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling (607) 778-1196.

NYSEG is reporting that over 2200 were without power in Broome County from last night's breezy conditions, 770 were without power this afternoon in Chenango County & about 200 in Otsego County. Crews are working to restore power as quickly as possible.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 31-year-old Cachet Fernandez, who is a registered as a level 2 sex offender, he is described as a black male with brown hair, brown eyes, and is approximately 5’7” tall, anyone with information should contact the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office 607-832-5629 or contact local law enforcement agency.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli and State Police announced the arrest of Utica City School District Superintendent Bruce Karam and the former Utica Mayor and School Board President Louis LaPolla. Karam was using school money and resources to send election mailers in support of school board candidates that he favored and who determined his contract, salary and authority. He also is accused of using school resources to send invitations for a non-school related fundraiser for a purported charity run by LaPolla. LaPolla was allegedly aware that school resources were being used on his behalf. Karam also allegedly tried to cover up his actions by attempting to persuade school district employees to lie that the resources being used for a valid purpose.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 11-21-23

State Police Major Crimes Unit members were in southern Vermont searching an area of forest for the remains of Sara Anne Wood, about 30 miles east of Albany. Wood was abducted while riding her bicycle 30 years ago in a remote area of the Town of Frankfort, & was killed by Lewis Lent of Massachusetts, Over 80 officers from the State Police assisted in the search, which concluded on Thursday, No remains were found in the search.

The Broome County Corrections Academy will hold its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2023 at the Holiday Inn in Downtown Binghamton, starting at 11:30 this morning. 25 graduates will officially earn the rank of Officer, after 3 months of training, learning defense tactics, studying law, Several recruits will also be recognized with individual awards.

State Police & The FBI arrested 43 year old Michael Hilliard of Horseheads November 11th, following an investigation into hazardous materials used for making bombs was found Hilliard's residence. On November 6th, a local Highway Department employee found a possible explosive, the State Police Bomb Disposal Unit and FBI responded and made the explosive safe. On November 11th Hilliard was apprehended and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the First Degree (B Felony). He was arraigned and remanded to the Chemung County Jail. On November 12th, State Police executed a search warrant at Hilliard’s residence, they located several suspicious hazardous materials inside the residence & the immediate surrounding the residence was evacuated. State Police are working in conjunction with the FBI for the disposal of all hazards. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the New York State Police at 585-398-4100.

State Police are requesting the public’s assistance in locating a 2019 or newer white Volvo semi-truck with damage to the front passenger side. Police said that 40 year old John Viviano of Sidney was pronounced dead at the scene, State Police at Troop E investigated the fatal car-pedestrian crash that occurred on I-86 near exit 38 in the village of Bath, Police beleive that a westbound vehicle on I-86 struck Viviano between Friday night & Saturday Morning, The vehicle did not stop, and State Police is requesting the public’s assistance to identify the vehicle, which may have significant front-end damage. Anyone with information, please contact the New York State Police at 585-398-4100.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 3 people last Wednesday in a major drug bust in Binghamton. arrested were 39-year-old Rayshawn Thompson, 38-year-old Derrick Brooks and 39-year-old Brandy Myers were charged with multiple felonies after the Task Force officers executed a search warrant at 24 Robinson Street. Officer seized a loaded handgun, fentanyl, Methamphetamine, cocaine, Suboxone Strips & $4,500 in suspected drug proceeds, packaging materials, all 3 were transported to the Binghamton Police Department, and were processed & were being held on various felony weapon & drug charges.

State Police arrested 31 year old Kevin Carter Jr. of Binghamton, for 3rd degree Robbery and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Troopers were dispatched to a reported robbery at Speedway in the town of Union. Troopers located Carter who was found to be in possession of metal knuckles. The investigation determined that Carter made a small purchase but when the register was open, he reached over the counter and forcefully took a sum of money, however, he left his wallet with his ID on the counter during the incident. Carter was transported to the Broome County Correctional Facility for arraignment.

A.M. NEWS Monday 11-20-23

State Police arrested 4 women after a theft at the Oneonta Walmart on October 20th. A Trooper was dispatched to a report of the women walking with over $1,000 in merchandise. Troopers were able to locate and arrest all 4 women all were charged with Grand Larceny, they are identified as 19 year old Miranda Cole of Norwich, 18 year old Shania Reynolds-Broyles of North Bellmore, 19 year old Nevaeh Moore of Brooklyn, & 19 year old Samantha Sawyer of New York City, all will appear in Oneonta Town Court on December 5, 2023.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested a 16 year old female juvenile for multiple charges following a warrant arrest on November 15th in the City of Oneonta. The juveniles was charged with 2 counts each for Resisting Arrest & Obstruction of Governmental Administration & 1 count each for Escape, Disorderly Conduct, Harassment, Assault & Felony Assault. she is accused of resisting arrest, assaulting staff of the Probation Office following arraignment at the Otsego County Office Building, she was released to a 3rd party & will appear in court at a later date.

SUNY Morrisville Norwich Campus Open House and Instant Decision Day will be today from 1:00 - 6:00 PM at Follett Hall. Participants can meet with Admissions staff & Financial Aid staff. More information is available at norwich@morrisville.edu or call 607.334.5144.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-17-23

The Sidney Veteran's Memorial Park fundraiser at East Main Lanes in Sidney the last 2 weekends was a big success, Park President Doug Barnard told WCDO how much they raised:

(Doug Barnard 11-17-23)

Barnard said that the money raised will go for routine maintenance, upgrades and added security cameras at the park, the annual fundraising Golf Tournament will be held next June, more details will be released about that in 2024. More information about the park is available at svmpa.org.

NY State of Health announced the beginning of its annual open enrollment period for health insurance. Beginning today, consumers have until December 15th, to renew or enroll in a Qualified Health Plan for health insurance starting January 1, 2024. more information is available at 1-855-355-5777 or nystateofhealth.ny.gov.

The House Ethics panel says it has found "substantial evidence" of lawbreaking by Congressman George Santos, and has referred its findings to the Justice Department. The committee said Thursday that Santos' conduct warrants public condemnation, is beneath the dignity of the office, and has brought severe discredit upon the House. Santos has maintained his innocence and refused to resign despite calls from many of his colleagues to do so. Santos is accused of knowingly making his campaign committee file false or incomplete reports with the Federal Election Commission, among other misdeeds.

CDO Workforce will host a Job Fair at SUNY Morrisville in Norwich today. The event runs from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM today with representatives from area businesses looking to add to their staff.

NYSEG Reports that there are no power outages locally this morning, after yesterday's transformer fires in Sidney. Anyone who still has power issues this morning can call 800.572.1131 to report any electricity emergency.