WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-9-26

Governor Hochul announced $110 million in State funding to improve emergency communications systems and dispatching capabilities through 2 programs. Through the SICG-Formula Grant Program, $90 million is being awarded to support efforts to bolster communications networks, locally, Chennago County gets $968,000, Delaware County 1.16 Million Dollars & Otsego County gets 1.2 Million dollars. Also, The PSAP Operations Grant Program provides funding to support county 911 centers, with Chenango getting $310,000, Delaware & Otsego Counties get almost $320,000 each.

The Village of Sidney announced that the Village Clerk’s office will be open starting Monday, they will operate out of the Former DMV office in the Sidney Civic Center until ceiling repairs are completed in the regular clerk’s office.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-9-26

47 year old Neil Wesley was sentenced to 25 years in prison for receipt and possession of child pornography in US District Court. As part of his guilty plea, Wesley admitted he had been previously convicted of rape in New York in 2001, he also admitted that from at least December 2024 through February 2025 he received and distributed child pornography & he possessed over 200 images and 18 videos of child pornography. In addition to the 25-year imprisonment term, United States District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi imposed 15 years of supervised release, forfeiture and directed restitution to victims of the offense.

The Otsego County Fire Convention gets underway today through Saturday at the American Legion Field on Willow Street, 1st Assistant Chief JR Hurlbert comments:

(JR Hurlburt 7-9-26)

The festivities begin today & run through Saturday night.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 20 year old Kyle Ruiz of Hartwick, for Promotion of a Sexual Performance by a Child & Obscenity, following an investigation in to multiple Cyber Tips received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The Investigation revealed that Ruiz used multiple usernames to solicit sexual content from other users on various social media platforms. In January investigators executed a search warrant at the Ruiz residence, Following the examination of multiple seized devices, additional information contributed to arrest. Ruiz turned himself in today & was held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await Arraignment.

30 year old Andrew Weiskopff of Johnson City was arrested on 4 counts of Assault, plus Reckless Endangerment, leaving the scene of a personal injury accident & reckless driving. Weiskopff is accused of striking 2 victims with his vehicle in front of Tully’s in Vestal last Thursday. Both female victims were taken to an area hospital, Weiskopff was located at he returned to his residence, and he was taken into custody without issue, He was also issued two traffic tickets for varying offenses, Weiskopff was remanded to the Broome County Jail

The State Department of Motor Vehicles announced that their department helped New Yorkers recover more than $13.6 million in stolen vehicles, titles, parts and services during 2025. The department reported that 384 Stolen Vehicles were Recovered in 2025 Worth $10.4 Million, and an Additional $3.2 Million Recouped in Titles, Repairs and Refunds, That number is an increase from $11 million recovered in 2024.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-3-26

On Thursday Night, Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol observed a stolen vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on State Route 17 in the Town of Vestal, A pursuit followed, to I-81, to I-88 into the town of Fenton & back through Binghamton into Johnson City, the pursuit ended when a tire fail off, the driver, 28 year old Romario Robinson of Binghamton, was taken into custody. 28 year old Shelby Medovich of Harpursville exited a nearby restaurant & interfered with the investigation of Robinson, she is accused of being a participant in the theft of the vehicle. Robinson and Medovich were charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, Conspiracy, Robinson faced additional traffic violations both were processed, arraigned & were released on their own recognizance pending future court action.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond was officially sworn in Monday morning following his re-election to a 3rd term as Sheriff. The oath of office was administered by Delaware County Court Judge John Hubbard during a ceremony attended by county officials, law enforcement personnel, family members, and community supporters.

State Forest Rangers & the Otsego County Sheriff's Office conducted a Wilderness Search On December 25 at 6:18 pm., the Sheriff’s Office called for assistance in the search for a patient who jumped out of an ambulance. The ambulance was transporting the 47-year-old unidentified Unadilla resident from Fox Hospital to Bassett Medical Center, Ambulance personnel pursued the patient but lost sight near Walnut and Linden Streets, they searched a wooded area, about 5 hours later, a civilian notified Rangers that someone was pounding on the front door of a house on Linden Street, a Deputy found the patient sitting at the bus stop shelter and drove the patient to the hospital.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-30-25

1 of the new laws going into effect on Thursday January 1st, is an effort to crack down on money laundering and "shell company" secrecy, the New York LLC Transparency Act stipulated that liability companies (LLC's) formed in or authorized to do business in New York must now disclose their "beneficial owners", or the actual people who own or control the company, to the Department of State. Existing companies have until the end of the year to file, while any new LLC's formed on or after January 1, 2026, January 1 have to submit the information within 30 days of formation.

38 year old Duprey Range of Binghamton pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Criminal Possession of a Weapon and will be sentenced to 7½ years in State Prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision. Range also pleaded guilty to Attempted Aggravated Harassment of an Employee by an Inmate, in exchange for a sentence of ½ to 3 years in State Prison, to be served concurrently with the sentence on the weapons conviction. Sentencing is scheduled for March 25, 2026, in Broome County Court.

2 American Red Cross Blood drives are being held in Cooperstown today, 1 from 12 pm. - 4 pm., at the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W, another will be from 12 pm. - 5 pm., at the Clark Sports Center, appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS

State Police Superintendent Steven James announced that a meeting was held at Troop A in Batavia regarding human trafficking & other security issues at the Northern Border. State Police officials met with those from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the Buffalo Police Department, Erie County Sheriff's Office, Niagara Falls Police Department, and the New York State Park Police. The meeting was held in light of more trafficking issues coming across the Canadian border into the US in increasing numbers.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies received a complaint last week of property damage in the Town of Walton. Troopers determined that 27 year old Siara Mettler of Walton had unlawfully damaged a 2024 Chevrolet Trax, located at a residence on Beers Brook Road located in the Town of Walton. Mettler was charged with 1 count of Criminal Mischief, was processed & arraigned, an order of protection was issued protecting the victim from further contact. Mettler was released and directed to return to the Town of Walton Court at a later date to answer for the said charge.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-27-25

A Delaware County Grand Jury returned an 8-count indictment against 20 year old Mario Sierra of East Meredith, on multiple counts of of Rape & Criminal Sexual act Sierra is accused of performing sexual acts with a minor under the age of 15, in the City of Oneonta, & in the Town of Meredith. Sierra appeared in the Delaware County Court on Friday for arraignment, Bail was set at $25,000 cash, $50,000 bond or $100,000 partially secured bond, he was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 47 year old Eric Bormann of Laurens, on 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Harassment. Deputies responded to a domestic dispute in the Town of Laurens, Bormann was also found to be in possession of a semi-automatic handgun without a State Pistol Permit, he was issued an Appearance Ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Laurens Town Court at a later date.

The State DMV is warning customers to be aware of the latest phishing scam, where bad actors seek to gain access to personal information by pretending to be from the DMV. This is the latest in a series of text message phishing schemes that DMV has warned New Yorkers to avoid. Previous scams have claimed that E-ZPass accounts were about to be suspended. DMV provides information on these phishing attacks on its website at dmv.ny.gov.

State Police have reported whiteout conditions in the Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks today, Police responded to a multiple vehicle crash on the State Thruway between Little Falls & Herkimer, will all of the westbound lanes blocked, they suggest that people that must travel in those regions of the state to drive with extreme caution. Motorists are reminded to use 511ny.org or call 5-1-1 for road conditions.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-17-25

The State Department of Motor Vehicles helped consumers recover more than $11 million in stolen vehicles, stolen parts, services and lost titles, in 2024. Last year, the DMV recovered 303 stolen vehicles — valued at $8,353,334 at the time of their theft — and $91,979 in stolen parts. DMV officials have warned consumers about the dangers of car sales scams through online sites like Facebook Marketplace, and reminded car buyers to be vigilant when purchasing a vehicle online.

THE OTSEGO COUNTY PLANNING & SOLID WASTE Department announced that the all of the Otsego Express Routes will be closed today.

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 DMV warns customers to be cautious of car sales on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist and similar sites. The advisory comes after a rise in stolen vehicles, including cars with altered ID numbers and forged titles. Investigations revealed that, as of October 15th there were 228 stolen vehicles worth $6.35 million recovered by the DMV, with 149 purchased by victims from these online platforms.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-17-24

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force executed a search warrant Tuesday at 373 Prospect Street in the Town of Dickinson. Police arrested 39 year old Andrew Fuller of Binghamton for multiple counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance & criminally using drug Paraphernalia and 45 year old Betty Hobbs of Binghamton for multiple Counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Officers seized Methamphetamine, Suboxone, Oxycodone & other narcotics, ecstasy, cocaine scales & packaging materials, Fuller and Hobbs were transported to the Broome County Correctional facility for processing and arraignment.

Governor Hochul today announced a plan to remove barriers for perspective school bus drivers applying for a commercial driver license. The DMV has implemented a federal waiver that allows school bus driver applicants to skip the engine compartment component of the commercial driver license road test, at a time when school bus drivers are desperately needed. More information is available at dmv.ny.gov/commercial-drivers/become-school-bus-driver

The Workforce Development Board is offering a free virtual job fair on Tuesday, January 30, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, for all businesses and job seekers in several regional counties. More information for businesses looking to add to their staff, or job seekers, can be obtained at working-solutions.org.

AM NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-17-24

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old Mark Lamphear of New Berlin for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol and DWI. Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Town of Norwich for a speeding violation. they found Lamphear to be in possession of methamphetamine, Hydrocodone, gun parts that pieced together a non-compliant AR-15 and a 30-round magazine, packaging material and had a large sum of cash. Lamphear was processed and released on an appearance ticket and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date, Additional Weapons Charges are Pending**

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Rashon Spear of Oneonta, for Criminal Mischief, Criminal Tampering, Criminal Nuisance & Harassment. Investigation revealed that while incarcerated at the correctional facility, Spear caused damage to a television set in his cell & used his bodily fluids to create a hazardous risk to corrections officers, hew as arraigned & was returned to the correctional facility with an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

The Four County Library System Bookmobile is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Bookmobile, which has traveled across the rural areas of Broome, Chenango, Delaware & Otsego Counties, Spokesperson Sarah Reid told WCDO news why the program has kept going for 6 decades:

(Sarah Reid 5-24-23)

Reid said that they are planning some special events to coincide with the Bookmobile anniversary this summer, more information is available at the 4 County Library System Facebook page.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Friday to a 2 car motor vehicle accident with injuries on State Highway 206 in the Town of Tompkins. After further investigation, deputies identified the one of the drivers of the vehicle as 66 year-old Terence Gebler of Walton, whose driver’s license was suspended. Deputies arrested Gebler for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Failure to turn in license to DMV, & Failure to yield while entering an intersection, Gebler was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-24-23

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce will hold their Annual Awards Dinner tonight at 5:30pm at the SUNY Oneonta Alumni Field House. This year's award winners are: Geoffrey Doyle of Foothills Performing Arts Center for the Eugene Bettiol Jr. Distinguished Citizen Award, Connie Herzig for the Volunteer of the Year Award, Dan Buttermann - Leadership Otsego Distinguished Alumni Award, & Casella Waste Systems for the Business of the Year Award & Creekside Industries for the Breakthrough Business of the Year Award.

Delaware County Public Health Services will be conducting a Mpox vaccination clinic today, from 1pm-3pm at 99 Main St., Delhi. It takes two vaccinations for the best protection; a follow up clinic will be scheduled in June. To find out more about Mpox and to register for the clinic go to delawarecountypublichealth.com or call Delaware Public Health Services at 607-832-5200.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-26-23

State Police & other Law Enforcement Agencies are reminding New Yorkers to follow the "Move Over" law, which requires drivers to change lanes away from emergency responders, tow trucks & police vehicles responding to emergencies on the state's highway. The message was announced again after a driver slammed into the back an a van assisting a motorist in the Hudson valley, flipping another vehicle into the air, there were no injuries according to DMV officials. The Move Over Law has been in effect since 2012 in New York State.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 26 year old Tiger Gould of Unadilla following a warrant investigation for the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office. Gould was charged with Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, he was issued an appearance ticket in the Town of Unadilla Court at a later date, he was turned over to Chenango County Sheriff’s Office on the Bench Warrant.

The Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Kyle Babola of Johnson City pleaded guilty for killing Scott Groover with a machete in 2021. Babola took a plea deal of 20 years to life before the trial could start, the maximum sentence could have been 25 years to life in prison.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce announced that potential public transportation options for Delaware County will be the topic of a presentation on May 16 at 11:00 am in the Meeting Room of the Delaware County Business Center at 5 ½ Main Street in Delhi. The Chamber has been working with County and State officials, private transportation operators, healthcare and human service organizations, regional employers, and national transportation associations on a 7-month study of public transit options. The team from VIA Mobility will present recommendations that may lead to transportation options for Delaware County residents, employees, and visitors, more information is available at DelawareCounty.org.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 4-26-23

Commerce Chenango will host "Preventing Targeted Violence to Keep Communities Safe" at the Colonia Theatre, on South Broad Street, Norwich today. Commerce Chenango President & CEO Sal Testani told WCDO News that his brother, Joseph Testani, who is a retired FBI agent will provide training to Commerce Chenango Members:

(Sal Testani 4-26-23)

Testani said that the Registration for the event will begin at 10:00 AM, with the presentation starting at 11:00 AM.

3 blood drives are being conducted around the Otsego County today. 1 drive will be held from 12 pm. - 5 pm.,at the State University in Oneonta, in the Hunt College Union, another drive will be held from 8:30 am. - 1:30 pm., at the Neonatal High School, & another drive will be in Cooperstown from 12:30 pm. - 5:30 pm., St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 31 Elm Street. To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

The State Labor Department released preliminary local area unemployment rates for March. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 4.2% in February to 4.1% in March. Locally, Chenango County had 3.5%, Delaware County 3.9% and Otsego County 3.8% unemploment in March.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 3-16-23

Delaware County Sheriff's office arrested 2 people following an investigation of a motor vehicle accident. On Monday night, Deputies responded to a 1 car motor vehicle accident with injuries on State Highway 206, near Davis Road in the Town of Walton. 1 vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree, Deputies made contact with the driver, 41-year-old Christine Falsetta of Sidney, she was charged with Driving while ability impaired by drugs, Aggravated Unlicensed Operator and Moving from a lane unsafely, Falsetta was released on tickets returnable to the Town of Walton Court at a later date. Falsetta was released to a third party identified as 49-year-old Shawn Smith of Sidney, a check of Smith’s driver’s license revealed his was suspended, Smith was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle as well as Failing to turn in his License to DMV and Unlicensed Operator, he was released on the uniformed traffic tickets and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that 19 year old Savon Turrell of Binghamton, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Turrell admitted that on May 3, 2022, he illegally possessed a loaded 45 caliber pistol. Binghamton Police responded to a report of shots fired with the suspects leaving the scene in a light-colored Dodge Caliber. Police tracked the vehicle to a house on Oak Street. Turrell was located & was arrested, no one was injured in the shooting. Turrell will be sentenced to 3 ½ years in New York State prison followed by 3 years post release supervision on May 19th.

Acting Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that he will run for District Attorney this November. Smith became acting DA when previous District Attorney John Hubbard ran for and won the race for Delaware County judge in November. Smith is seeking the Republican Party nomination, he already has the endorsement from the County Conservative Party.

The Firefighters Association of the State of New York announced that their annual RECRUIT NY event will be held shortly across the state. Volunteer fire departments will open their doors to residents Saturday, April 22nd and Sunday, April 23rd, as part of the 14th annual RecruitNY weekend, to try to increase the numbers of firefighters. Individuals looking to find out if their fire department is participating in RecruitNY, can visit recruitny.org/participation-area.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-16-23

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 29 year old Bret VanValkenburg of Bainbridge following a Burglary Investigation in the Town of Laurens. Vanvalkenburgh was charged with 2nd degree Burglary & 3rd degree Grand Larceny, VanValkenburgh allegedly entered an occupied residence on June 29th 2021 and stole a set of car keys, & stole the victim’s Chevrolet Trax, which was found abandoned in the Village of Sidney. An Otsego County Grand Jury indicted Vanvalkenburgh, who was being held in the Delaware County jail on an unrelated charge, he was arraigned in Otsego County Court this week & bail was set at $1,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond and he was returned to the Delaware County Correctional Facility.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 19 year old Jeffrey Bullis following a complaint in the Village of Unadilla. Bullis was charged with Harassment & Trespassing on February 27th. Bullis was arraigned and released & will appear in the Town of Unadilla Court on a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Jason Delong, on an outstanding warrant. Delong is a white male, 5' 11", 175 pounds with hazel eyes & brown hair, Tips may be submitted electronically using the Broome County Sheriff’s Office website gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by telephone at (607) 778-1196.

Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 41 year old Clifton Kirk of Summit, pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court to Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs. Kirk was operating a motor vehicle in excess of the speed limit on I-88 in Sidney on October 23rd 2021, Kirk was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury, he appeared in County Court Monday and pleaded guilty. The anticipated sentence will also require that the defendant’s license be revoked for 12 months, and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, $300 surcharge, $125 crime victim fee, and a $50 DNA fee.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 27 year old Brandon Morse of Edmeston twice on February 7th. Morse was charged with Possession of a Forged Instrument, 3rd degree Grand Larceny & 2 counts of Petty larceny, following an investigation in to a report a stolen check that was cashed in the amount of $3,500 at a local bank, he allegedly stole the check from a business and conspired with others to cash the check. Morse is also accused of stealing the sign for the same local business which was later recovered. Morse was arrested also for Aggravated Harassment following an investigation in to a report of threatening messages being sent to another person, containing threats of harm to the victim and a family member. Morse is being held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending future court action in Towns of Burlington & Town of Edmeston Court

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies observed a vehicle traveling on State Highway 28 in the Town of Delhi, crossing over the double yellow line’s multiple times, they conducted a traffic stop, they identified the driver as 30-year-old Carmine Yonnone of Delhi, whose driver’s license was suspended. Yonnone was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Failing to Turn in License to DMV, Moving from a lane unsafely, Unauthorized Sticker and Possession of an open alcoholic Container within a motor vehicle, he will appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 23 year old Steven Osei of Binghamton for 3rd degree Grand Larceny & other related charges for allegedly getting cash by depositing fraudulent checks at an ATM. Osei was processed & issued an appearance ticket for Town of Dickinson Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 2-9-23

The Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals will host a Community Cat Forum Today at 4:00 PM at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center, 24 Market Street in Oneonta. Susquehanna SPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes told WCDO News that the event is to address the issues of Feral cats in large numbers in many area communities:

(Stacie Haynes 2-9-23)

Haynes said that this event is free and open to the public.

On December 30th, Delaware County Sheriff Deputies, received a complaint of a possible animal abuse/neglect involving several dogs, in the Town of Davenport. Deputies arrested 47 year old Doreen Biasi & 24 year old Ashley Biasi for Overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance, both were released on appearance tickets for Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-8-23

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that Kristopher Duncan of Plattsburgh was Sentenced To Prison In Broome County Court this week. Duncan was sentenced to 4 years in State prison followed by 5 years post release supervision after pleading guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Duncan possessed an illegal loaded firearm which he discharged in a room at the Comfort Inn on Upper Front Street in the Town of Dickinson, no one was injured. Duncan has a prior felony conviction for Criminal Contempt in 2017,

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the first of the Conditional Adult-Use Cannabis Retail Dispensary licenses in the Southern Tier will open in Binghamton. The opening of the store advances New York State's Seeding Opportunity Initiative, The planning board in Binghamton gave its final approval this week, The Cannabis dispensary opening in Binghamton - Just Breathe at 75 Court Street - will be owned and operated by a partnership between an experienced local entrepreneur, Damien Cornwell, and the Non-Profit Broome County Urban League.

The State DMV announced that the annual inspection stickers will be changing. DMV officials stated that the new print-on-demand vehicle inspection certificates will be phased in, it will add enhanced security by adding vehicle-specific information directly onto the inspection sticker. The change over will be completed by the end of 2023, but drivers with the previous inspections will continue to be allowed to have them through 2024.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 63 year old Stanley Eddy of Gansevoort following a traffic stop in the Town of Milford on January 31, 2023. Eddy was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle while Registration is Suspended, he was issued a Uniform Traffic Ticket returnable to the Town of Milford Court at a later date.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced $1,162,978 to 2 local homeless housing and services organizations. In New York, HUD awarded a total of $2,042,599.  The Binghamton, Town of Union, Otsego, Chenango, Delaware, Cortland, and Tioga Counties Continuum of Care received $716,456 for Opportunities for Otsego and $446,522 for Catholic Charities of Chenango County.

It was a Basketball Homecoming for Hancock resident Laycee Drake at Binghamton University, Drake plays for The University of Maryland Baltimore County Retrievers, they took on the Lady Bearcats in Binghamton last night, WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull said that drake received tremendous local support last night:

(Nate Lull 2-2-23)

Drake graduated from Hancock on 2021 and finished her High School Career with over 1800 points, she scored 11 point last night, but Binghamton won the game 80-70.

On Saturday night, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Town of Colchester, Deputies identified the driver of the vehicle as 44-year-old Tyrece Williams of Syracuse, who's vehicle registration was suspended, due to an Insurance Lapse. Williams was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended/Revoked Registration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Failing to turn in license plates into DMV, among other charges, Williams was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

About a dozen people were arrested at a protest at the Johnson City Wegman's Parking lot last night. People were protesting the police brutality cases of Tyre Nichols in Memphis & the Hamail Waddell keeling incident by Binghamton Police January 1st. Police from the Johnson City, Binghamton and Endicott Police departments, as well as the Broome County sheriffs Deputies and State Troopers responded.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 1-5-23

A community vigil will be held tonight in remembrance of 13-year-old Brennan Loveless, who was killed while riding his bicycle near his home Sunday afternoon. The vigil will be held at 7:00 pm. on the track of Harpursville High School and all are welcome to attend. A memorial service for Loveless will be held at the Osterhoudt-Madden Funeral Home on Maple Street in Harpursville on Friday, January 13th at 1, with calling hours from 11 to 1. 34 year old Bradley Law is being held in the Broome County Jail for striking Loveless with his pick up truck & fleeing the scene, he's been charged with criminally negligent homicide and leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident.

The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce announced their annual State of The State Networking Breakfast will be held Friday January 20 at SUNY Oneonta's Morris Hall, from 8:00 to 11:00 AM. Legislators scheduled to participate are Assemblymen Brian Miller & Chris Tague, Oneonta Mayor Mark Drnek, among others. Reservations form Otsego County Chamber members are due by January 16th by calling 607-432-4500, extension 2.

The Chenango United Way and the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties announced that, the two organizations have officially combined as of January 1st, as the United Way of Mid Rural New York, Incorporated.  Campaign dollars that are raised in each county will stay in that county, the Executive Director will be Elizabeth Monaco, who has been the Executive Director of the Chenango United Way. The Chenango United Way also affiliated with the United Way of Madison County last year, that merger process will finalize in April 2023, the Madison United Way will combine under the United Way of Mid Rural New York name. More information is available at 607-334-8815

A.M. NEWS Thursday 1-5-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested of 41 year-old Travis Kinch of Downsville, for driving with a suspended Driver’s license. On Monday Deputies observed a vehicle traveling on State Highway 30 in the Town of Colchester with an expired inspection. Upon conducting a traffic stop, A check of Kinch’s driver’s license revealed that his driving privileges were suspended in the State of New York. Kinch was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Unlicensed Operator, Uninspected Motor Vehicle and Failure to notify DMV of an address change, Kinch was released and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date.

31-year-old Kimberly Olsen of Edmeston has been arrested following an animal cruelty investigation by the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office. Olsen allegedly mistreated several animals and was charged with 3 counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance & 3 counts of abandonment of animal, Olsen was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Edmeston Court at a later date.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 45 year old Matthew Brady of Delhi following an investigation of abuse in the Town of Milford. Brady was charged with Endangering the Welfare of an Incompetent or Physically Disabled Person, Endangering the Welfare of a Child & Harassment, following an investigation into an incident that occurred on November 2nd 2022 at Springbrook in the Town of Milford. Brady was unable to be located and a warrant for arrest was issued through the Town of Milford Court, he turned himself in and was released on an appearance ticket for the Town of Milford Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a property damage accident on Springfield Hill Road in the Town of Middlefield November 18th. 30 year old Katy Cole of Middlefield, is accused of fleeing the scene of the accident on foot, Deputies were able to track Cole down using the police canine, Cole was arrested & was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Refusal of breath screening test, Leaving the scene of a property damage accident, Failure to keep right & Failure to notify DMV of an address change, she was held at the Otsego County Jail for arraignment.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and Delaware Opportunities will be asking people to donate toys for the annual Toys for Tots Campaign for another week, Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 12-1-22)

The toys will be picked up from all locations with collection boxes on December 8th, the toys will be distributed to Delaware County Families in Need.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a trespass complaint in the Town of Davenport last week. 73 year old George Sydlar is accused of cutting his neighbors barbed wire fence that was dividing their 2 properties. Sydlar was arrested and charged with Criminal Mischief. He was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested Nathan Clements of Chenango County following a traffic stop in the Town of Laurens. Clemens was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle, No distinctive plate, Failure to notify DMV of an address change & Disobeying a traffic control device, he was issued appearance tickets for Laurens Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Health Department is urging everyone six months and older to receive a flu vaccine as cases of influenza rise across the state. Statistics show that the flu season is ramping up early, with flu hospitalizations higher at this point in the season than they have been in a decade. Flu is also spreading at the same time as other respiratory illnesses, including RSV and COVID-19. More information is available at health.ny.gov/flu, or call the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-26-22

Governor Hochul announced the start of the 2nd phase of a plan to allow 3rd parties to offer the Commercial Driver License road test, to both public and private entities. The program is being implemented to address the shortage of bus and truck drivers. Any qualified third party is now eligible to apply for certification through the DMV, New Yorkers can find more information at dmv.ny.gov/commercial-drivers.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested Amy Schermerhorn of New Berlin following a traffic Stop in the town of Pittsfield. Schermerhorn was charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Operating a Motor Vehicle with .08% Blood Alcohol Content, She will appear in court at a later date.

Johnson City Police arrested 3 people in connection with the shooting of a man in the abdomen last week. Destiany Kleine-Hill, Justice Marimberga and David Van Patten were all charged with Attempted Murder, 1st degree Robbery & 2nd degree Burglary.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 9-26-22

Delaware County Public Health Services will be conducting a Monkeypox vaccine clinic on Wednesday, October 5, from 4:30PM to 6:00 PM, at 99 Main Street in Delhi. The two vaccine doses are given 28 days apart. This is a 1st dose clinic only. More information is available at 607-832-5200 To register for the clinic, go to delawarecountypublichealth.com.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office have arrested 29 year old Victor Grandel of Brooklyn. Deputies responded July 2nd to an accident scene on County Route 21 in Franklin, where the vehicle had been reported stolen out of New York City in June, a search of the vehicle revealed a quantity of drugs, drug paraphernalia, a loaded firearm, and cash. 3 individuals occupying the vehicle were transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries, Grandel was taken into custody by Deputies and charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Criminal Possession of a Weapon, he was arraigned & was remanded to the custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility pending a future court appearance. Arrest warrants were issued for the other 2 occupants of the vehicle.

State Police reported that 6-year-old Onnex Thompson-Hall was found dead at around 6:40 Sunday evening. Police said that the boy was autistic, and his body was in a pond not far from his home in Washington County. Investigators believe the death to be an accidental drowning, the boy was reported missing late Sunday morning, the investigation is continuing.

The State Comptroller's office audited the West Colesville Volunteer Fire Company, the audit found that the board did not have sufficient controls or information to ensure all disbursements were appropriate and necessary. As a result, the company made unnecessary disbursements totaling $4,107, the board also could not determine whether all collections were properly recorded or deposited.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-11-22

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is warning people of a phishing scam claiming the state is offering $1,500 rebates because of high gas prices, where the scammers send text messages instructing people to click the link to see if they qualify, the link leads to a website designed to look like the actual DMV site. It asks for personal information, State officials report that this is an attempt at identity theft or to install malicious software on computers or cell phones. If you suspect you may have been contacted through a phishing scam, you can email the DMV at: dmv.sm.phishingattacks@dmv.ny.gov.

The Broome County District Attorney Michael Korchak announced that 45-year-old Donnell Bailey of Binghamton will serve 1 to 3 years in prison after pleading guilty to failure to comply with the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act. Bailey failed to provide an address to local law enforcement in 2021 while living in Broome County, he was convicted in 20 years ago for criminal sexual act.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 58-year-old Dale Beach of Franklin for criminal mischief for an incident last month. Beach is accused of damaging a vehicle by throwing rocks at it in the town of Otego, he was arrested and faces court action shortly.

The Broome County Health Department reported an increase in overdoses this year. This year there have been 44 fatal overdoses and 258 suspected non-fatal overdoses already reported, more information about treatment programs can be found at gobroomecounty.com/boac.

Otsego County District Attorney's office announced the conviction of Bradley Cook of Oneonta for 2 counts of 1st degree criminal sexual act, for performing sexual acts with a minor under the age of 11 on 2 occasions. Cook will be sentenced June 24th.

The State DMV is reminding Motorcycle owners that all motorcycle registrations expire on April 30th and must be renewed by then. Motorcycles also must be inspected once a year at a licensed station. More information on how to renew a motorcycle registration can be found by visiting dmv.ny.gov.

The Chenango United Way & the Delaware Otsego United Way exceeded their campaign goals in the most recent fundraising cycle, Chenango United Way Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco is now in charge of the Delaware Otsego chapter as well, and she told WCDO News about changes that are coming to make their efforts more efficient:

(Elizabeth Monaco 4-13-22)

More information about the United Way local programs can be accessed by calling 607-373-0297 or at unitedwaydo.org.

Broome County District Attorney Mike Korchak announced that 40 year old James Williams of Port Dickinson was sentenced to 5 years in jail for a guilty plea of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Williams was arrested in 2019 after Johnson City Police executed a search warrant where Williams was found to be illegally in possession of a sawed-off shotgun.

New York State has updated driver's licenses and state IDs for the first time since 2013. The new look includes enhanced security features & anyone who applied for a new permit, license or non-driver ID card after March 10th will receive the new and improved card. Enhanced features include imprinted lettering and images which can be felt on the card's surface, more information is available at DMV.NY.GOV.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-13-22

Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin submitted his resignation to Governor Kathy Hochul yesterday, after he was arrested following a Federal Investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s office said Benjamin was charged with bribery, honest services wire fraud and falsification of records. Benjamin was accused in an indictment of participating in a scheme to obtain campaign contributions from a real estate developer in exchange for Benjamin’s agreement to use his influence as a state senator to get a $50,000 grant of state funds for a nonprofit organization the developer controlled. Governor Hochul accepted the resignation.

State Troopers responded Sunday to a domestic incident that involved an attempted break-in at a residence on County Highway 54 in the town of Springfield. 37 year old Kenneth Carson of Springfield attempted to enter the home of a known acquaintance and discharged a firearm while outside, he is also accused of having illegal Ghost Guns. Carson was charged with Attempted Burglary, Criminal Use of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Manufacture of a Machine Gun, Reckless Endangerment & Criminal Mischief. Carson was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $20,000 cash bail or $45,000 bond.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-26-22

State Police arrested 29 year old Brandon Hilts of Cherry Valley for 2nd degree Assault, Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Mischief, Menacing, Reckless Endangerment and Criminal Obstruction of Breathing. Troopers were dispatched to a report of a domestic dispute in a vehicle in the town of Edmeston, the investigation revealed that a verbal argument became physical. Hilts is accused of seriously injuring and choking the victim & that he threatened the victim with a knife and prevented the victim from leaving, from calling 911 and for trying to hit the victim with the victims vehicle. The victim was Bassett Hospital to be treated for injuries sustained during the dispute, Hilts was remanded to the Otsego County Jail pending court action in Edmeston Town Court on February 7.

The Delaware County Tourism Advisory Board is now accepting applications for funding under the 2022 Tourism Promotion & Development Grant program, spokesman Evan Bowker explains:

(Evan Bowker 1-26-22)

Bowker said that the grant program is funded through the Delaware County 2% Occupancy Tax, the deadline for application to the Department of Economic Development is 5:00 pm on Friday, February 25th. More information is available at dcecodev.com.

The State Labor Department released their December breakdown for unemployment in each County. Locally, Chenango & Delaware Counties had 2.8% unemployment, Otsego county had 3% unemployment, the statewide rate was at 6.2%.

The State Office of Cannabis Management reported that 10% of cities and 34% of all municipalities have opt-ed out of all cannabis sales. The Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act enacted last March gave cities, towns, and villages until December 31st to pass a local law that makes a request to the state Cannabis Control Board to opt their jurisdiction out of hosting retail and/or on-site cannabis consumption licensees. In November, the OCM opened a web-based portal to help localities fulfill this requirement. Municipalities that opted out can opt in at any time.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 1-26-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a plan to help address a critical shortage of truck and bus drivers by significantly expanding the availability of road tests for Commercial Driver License applicants. The initiative would allow qualified 3rd parties to offer the road tests, which would create more testing locations statewide and expand capacity at the existing state-run sites, reducing the time it takes to get qualified CDL drivers on the road. The DMV will hold a virtual public hearing TODAY through WebEx from 10:00 am. to 12:30 pm.

Governor Hochul & Attorney General Letitia James announced that New York’s indoor mask mandate is back in effect just one day after a Nassau County judge ruled that it couldn’t be enforced. New York State filed an appeal Tuesday following the ruling, and Judge Robert Miller granted the state’s request for a stay of the the previous ruling that the governor and health officials lacked authority to require masks. The State Department of Education already sent a notice to schools Tuesday saying regardless of Monday’s ruling, masks would still be required. Another hearing on the mandate is scheduled for Friday.

The Greene Police Department, State Police & The Chenango County Sheriff's Office are investigating a shooting in Greene Tuesday Morning at around 8:00 AM. The hooting took place at 8 1/2 Jackson Street, the victim was listed in stable condition at Wilson Hospital in Johnson City, an unidentified person has been arrested, the investigation is continuing.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies stopped a vehicle operated by 19-year old Levi R. Shambaugh, of Delancey on sun Day January 16th for allegedly driving 70 Miles per hour in a 55mph zone, on State Highway 10, in the Town of Delhi. Shambaugh’s New York State driver’s license was suspended due to a failure to answer a summons. Shambaugh was charged him with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, speeding among other charges, he was released on appearance tickets for the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Otsego County Office of Emergency Services announced that COVID test kits, one kit per person, are available today at the Schenevus Fire Department from 6:00 to 8:30 PM, and Thursday at the Cherry Valley Fire Department from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the Hartwick Town Hall from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, and Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, and Thursday at the Unadilla Fire Department starting at 4:30 pm until gone.

Chenango County Health Department confirmed the 99th COVID-19 attributed death in the County since that pandemic began 2 years ago.  Chenango County reported 722 Active Cases 722, 35% are vaccinated, they have 8 hospitalized, and none of those were vaccinated.  1053 are Quarantined, vaccine information or how to report a positive home test for COVID, can be found at the Chenango County Health Department website.

Otsego County Office of Emergency Services announced that the KN95 masks will be made available Free for distribution to the public, beginning today at the Richfield Springs Fire Department on East James Street from 6:00 to 8:00 PM and again on Saturday, from 12:00 Noon until 5:00 pm or until supplies last.

New York high school seniors who are graduating and interested in pursuing a career in agriculture can apply for New York Farm Bureau's Agricultural Youth Scholarship. Statewide winners can earn up to $3,000 towards their future education.  For more information, including the online application, go to New York Farm Bureau's website at www.nyfb.org or call the New York Farm Bureau office at 1-800-342-4143 for more information.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 1-13-22

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for people 18 & older today at 97 Main Street, Delhi.  Moderna 1st or 2nd doses will only be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM for walk-ins only.  Moderna boosters will be available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, registration is required at apps2.health.ny.gov. There will be No Johnson & Johnson vaccines available for this clinic. For more information, call Delaware County Public Health at 607-832-5200.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a plan to help address a critical shortage of truck and bus drivers by expanding the availability of road tests for Commercial Driver License applicants. The initiative would allow qualified 3rd parties to offer the road tests, which would create more testing locations statewide and expand capacity at the existing state-run sites, reducing the time it takes to get qualified CDL drivers on the road.  The DMV will hold a virtual public hearing on Wednesday, January 26, through WebEx from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched Monday to a report of a crossbow bolt found stuck in the front lawn of a Walton residence.   50-year-old Bryan Cosma of Walton had discharged crossbow bolt into the air, within 250 feet of a neighboring dwelling. Cosma was charged with Illegal Discharge of a Crossbow; he was released on an appearance ticket, and is scheduled to appear before the Town of Walton Court at a later date.

State Police BCI unit arrested 26 year old Simon Braungard of Windsor for Sexual Abuse, following an investigation where he is accused of forcibly subjecting a victim to sexual contact on January 5th.  Braungard was transported to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Albany County District Attorney David Soares is dropping a criminal charge against former Governor Andrew Cuomo for allegedly fondling an aide in Albany last year. Soares' decision comes just before Cuomo was due in court this week to answer to the misdemeanor charge, The Albany DA's decision follows other jurisdiction's prosecutors dropping similar charges against Cuomo. The Albany County charges were filed by the Sheriff's Office last October, Cuomo has denied those specific allegations.

The Otsego County Health Department reported 81 new COVID 19 cases on Monday, with 7 hospitalized 398 active cases, and a 12% seven day rolling average positivity rate. Officials remind Otsego County Residents to adhere to the Mask Mandates now in effect until February to try to stop the spread of the highly contagious Omicron Variant.

The Otsego County Department of Motor Vehicles announced that their office will be closed this week & will re-open on Monday January 10th. The office was closed due to COVID 19 issues among the DMV staff, residents can still perform transactions at dmv.ny.gov.

Delaware County Public Health reported 279 new positive cases of COVID 19 in their latest report covering Thursday through Monday, the positivity rate was up to 15.3%. Delaware County has 462 positive cases with 375 quarantined, there have been 85 deaths from the virus during the pandemic.

Now that the Christmas holiday is over, people will start removing their trees, decorations and getting rid of the wrapping paper from their gifts, Tyson Robb of Delaware County Solid Waste Management explains:

(Tyson Robb 12-27-21)

More information is available at co.delaware.ny.us/departments.

Delaware County Department of Emergency Services has received a shipment of disposable masks from the State and starting today, they are being distributed to a variety of locations in the County. The masks can be found in Delhi at the Price Chopper & County Office Buildings, in Walton at the Big M & Delaware County Mental Health Facility, in Deposit at the Big M & DMV office & in Sidney at the Price Chopper, Great American and DMV. The masks will be free to anyone in the community and will be on a first come first serve basis.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Brian Boore of Worcester following a traffic stop in the Town of Worcester. Boore was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance following a traffic stop on Main Street Worcester, Boore was a passenger in the vehicle and was found to be in possession of a small quantity of heroin and methamphetamine, he was an appearance ticket returnable to the Worcester Town Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 7-7-21

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce continued today with its Re-Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies around the County, with a ceremony with local business people at Main & River Streets this morning, Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 7-7-21)

Sidney Chamber President Teri Schunk also commented:

(Teri Schunk 7-7-21)

Pucci said that his team will visit Walton & Delhi after their Sidney Visit, they will go on Thursday to Margaretville, Fleischmann’s, Arkville & Hobart & they will conclude the series on Friday in Hancock & Andes.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign at State Highway 10 and County Highway 26 in the Town of Hamden on June 27th.  Deputies stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as 47 year-old James Eriksen of Delhi, a routine DMV inquiry revealed that Eriksen’s drivers’ license was revoked in 1996 for operating a motor vehicle without insurance.  Eriksen was charged aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and failure to stop at a stop sign; he was released to appear in the Town of Hamden Court on a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 45 year old Jaime Crowley of Windsor, following a deputy-involved shooting in the Town of Windsor.  Crowley surrendered himself to authorities after he was released from the hospital, he was charged with Aggravated possession of a weapon, 6 counts of criminal possession of a weapon, 2 counts of menacing a police officer & Reckless endangerment.   Deputies responded on July 3rd to a report of shots fired at a car making a K-turn at a residence on Cascade Valley Road, when deputies arrived, Crowley was pointing a handgun at officers, they demanded Crowley drop the weapon multiple times before they shot him in the shoulder, Crowley fired 1 round back, no deputies were injured. Crowley was remanded to the Broome County Correctional Facility pending future court action.

NYSEG is responding after high winds, heavy rain and lightning associated with thunderstorms disrupted service to customers on Tuesday; about 150 were without power late this morning in Delaware, Chenango & Otsego Counties.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-8-21
The push continues to get New Yorkers vaccinated against COVID 19 as quickly as possible, State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker commented at a press conference at the rapid vaccination site at the Javitz Center in New York City this morning:

(Zucker 3-8-21)

Mass vaccination sites are scheduled to begin opening in the upstate rural counties, the State University at Oneonta is scheduled to be one of those sites.

State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins & Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, are both calling for Governor Cuomo to resign, as allegations against Cuomo now exist from 4 women. Governor Cuomo said he will not resign, and said that he must be accorded due process, and he will cooperate with the investigation by Attorney General Letitia James office.

Chenango County Public Health reported 41 new COVID 19 cases since Friday, for a total of 2502 since the pandemic began; they report 75 active cases, 6 hospitalized & 275 quarantined. Chenango County has had 2270 recoveries, and they have administered over 84,700 tests.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 35 year old Daniel Chisholm of Downsville Sunday afternoon in Delhi. Deputies observed a vehicle traveling north on Meredith Street at an excessive speed, Chisholm was stopped & a routine DMV inquiry revealed that Chisholm’ driving privileges had been suspended since 2019. Chisholm was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed operator, speeding & having an obstructed driver’s view, he will face action in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-8-21

The Otsego County Department of Health reported 147 new COVID 19 cases between Monday & Friday of last week, 47% of the new cases were among college students & college employees. 46 new cases were reported Friday, Otsego County reported 174 active cases, 1284 total cases in 2021, 9 were hospitalized & there have been 33 deaths in 2021.

Delaware County Public Health reported 24 new positive COVID 19 cases Friday our of 356 tested, 13 new positive COVID 19 cases Saturday, out of 474 tested, & 17 out of 244 tested Sunday, they reported 123 active cases, 10 hospitalized & 334 quarantined.

The State Health Department reported Saturday, that they had 4,789 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide; the Lowest total since December 6, 999 Patients in the ICU; the lowest since December 9th & there were 682 on ventilators. There were 227,768 tested with 6,789 positive Saturday, the Statewide Positivity Rate is 2.98% for COVID testing on Saturday, there were 59 COVID-19 Deaths.

Governor Cuomo announced Sunday that restaurants outside of New York City can move to 75% indoor capacity starting March 19th, New York City Restaurants Will Remain at 35 Percent Capacity.

State Police reported that 15 year old Adrianna Leidecker was located late last week & was in good health. Leidecker left her home in Kirkwood late Monday or early Tuesday.

Chenango County Public Health reported 8 new cases of COVID 19 today, bringing their total to 1758. They have 191 active cases, 21 are hospitalized and 532 are quarantined, they have had 32 death since last spring.

The Otsego County Department of Health reported 80 new positive COVID 19 cases Tuesday. 21 people are currently hospitalized from the virus, there are 263 active cases & the county has reported a total of 23 deaths from the virus, including 4 since January 1st.

State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte is waiting on Ballots that were submitted through the Oneida County DMV site, before he will declare the winner of the 22nd Congressional District race between Former Congresswoman Claudia Tenney & incumbent Democratic congressman Anthony Brindisi. About 2400 voters submitted their ballots through the Oneida County DMV but they were not processed, a decision on the winner of the 22nd Congressional District may be announced by the end of the week.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 1-20-21

The Village of Sidney Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Committee will hold a 2nd ZOOM meeting tonight for the community to hear about the village’s Police Reform plans, Sidney Mayor Andy Matviak urges Sidney residents to fill out the surveys & return them:

(Matviak 1-20-21)

Governor Cuomo last year challenged Police Departments across the state to meet with the communities they serve, in order to make reforms on Police policies, the plans are due to the state by April 1st.

Delaware County Public Health announced Tuesday that a 22nd person has died of Covid-19 related complications. Delaware County Public Health received 22 positive lab reports for COVID-19 Tuesday, they report 129 active cases in the County with 16 hospitalized & 231 quarantined.

The Walton Central School District has been advised that a staff member has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. The District is coordinating with the Delaware County Department of Health to conduct contact tracing. Individuals requiring quarantine will be notified by County Health officials. Walton will move to full remote for today and Thursday, January 21, this includes all programs at DCMO BOCES Harrold Campus.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a 911 report of a domestic dispute in the Town of Tompkins last Friday. Deputies arrested and charged 40 year-old Benjamin Pankiewicz of Walton for criminal mischief, he is accused of breaking a cell phone and preventing another person involved in the domestic dispute from communicating a 911 request for emergency assistance. Pankiewicz was processed and released on an appearance ticket directing him to appear in the Town of Tompkins Court at a later date.

The Broome County Health Department had another 73 positive COVID 19 tests to report today, bringing their total to 6137 since the spring.  They reported 1 more death bringing their total to 151.  They have 5251 recoveries and the Health Department is monitoring almost 5000 people.

Chenango County Public Health reported 14 more positive tests for COVID today, they report  125 Active Cases, 502 Active Quarantines, 7 people are Hospitalized & 14 have died.  Chenango County has had 781 Confirmed Cases since March, with 653 recoveries & over 48,800 tests have been performed.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were contacted by a Deposit resident who reported that her social security number was used by another person to commit fraud.  22 year old Kinda Osborne of Deposit is accused of misrepresenting herself as a State employee, in order to gain access to the victim’s social security number, which she is accused of using to apply for a debit card.  Osborne was charged with Identity Theft & Criminal Impersonation, she was released on appearance tickets for the Town of Deposit Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office arrested 22-year-old Sean Gillespie of Bovina on a warrant issued by the Town of Delhi Court.  Gillespie was wanted for Criminal Mischief, Grand Larceny & 2 counts of Petty Larceny, for allegedly removing catalytic converters from vehicles that were parked in the Town of Delhi.  Gillespie was located by the City of Oneonta Police Department; he was arraigned in the Town of Andes Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 20 new cases Thursday, Since December 1st there have been 203 confirmed cases reported, 745 are quarantined for being in close contact with a positive case.  Otsego County has had 1516 total confirmed cases, with 151 active cases, 17 are hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths, and more than half of the cases came from SUNY Oneonta & Hartwick College.

Delaware County Public Health reported 6 new cases of COVID Thursday they have 95 active cases with 5 hospitalized & 338 in quarantine.  Most of the new cases are attributed to "living Room Spread" from small home gatherings.  Delaware County has had 481 cases, 377 recoveries and 9 deaths.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a 2 car accident December 4th in the Town of Delhi that has resulted in the arrest of a Delhi man on driving while ability impaired by drugs charges.  Deputies were dispatched to Spring Valley Road in the Town of Delhi, where 44-year-old Joseph Garone of Delhi had allegedly backed into another vehicle, causing substantial damage, he appeared to be under the influence of drugs & was taken into custody.  Garone was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, unsafe backing and failure to notify DMV of an address change he was released on an appearance tickets for Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-6-20

Chenango County Public Health reports additional COVID 19 cases, bringing them up to 443 total cases since March. They are reporting 34 Active Cases, 215 Quarantines, 6 Hospitalizations; they have had 9 deaths and 386 Recoveries.

Broome County Health Department had 84 more positive cases of COVID 19 over the last 2 days, bringing their total of 3780 since March, they had 1 more death, giving them 105 from the virus. They have had 3330 recoveries and over 4300 are being monitored by the Health Department.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has issued an Executive Order which will extend the period of time to allow driver’s licenses to remain valid until December 3. The Previous grace period ended earlier this week, the new executive Order gves people an additional month to validate their driver's license, if it expires after March 1st of this year, the DMV urges people to try to accomplish their renewal online at dmv.ny.gov.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 3 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday. The county has had 1042 total confirmed cases, 45 are active cases, there are no hospitalizations, 8 deaths, 754 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, & 57 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students

Delaware County Public Health reported 4 more COVID 19 tests Thursday; they have 48 active cases, 6 hospitalizations, & 194 in quarantine. Delaware County has had 205 cases, 148 recoveries, & 9 deaths.

Bidding opens at 5 pm today for Commerce Chenango’s first ever Lights, Camera, AUCTION online event! Commerce Chenango CEO & President Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 11-6-20)

Revenue earned through the items donated will help to support the mission of Commerce Chenango, which includes advocacy, education, professional development, funding and economic development initiatives for all of Chenango County. Green said that the LIVE Auction, which will be held on Thursday, November 12th at 7:00 p.m. through Zoom.

The Chenango County Historical Society was recently notified that it will receive extended funding as part of the Humanities New York CARES Emergency Relief Grants. This year the Society paused traditional programming, Virtual programming has grown exponentially, including online exhibit openings and a new “Cooking Historically” series on social media

Chenango County Public Health announced a few more positive cases of COVID 19 today, they are up to 408 total cases; 54 are Active Cases with 280 Quarantines, 7 Hospitalizations.  There have been 7 deaths, 338 Recoveries & 36,616 Tests have been performed since March.

State Police arrested 3 men last week after they were spotted on I-81 in a stolen vehicle.  A Zone Sergeant observed the vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop in Kirkwood.  The operator of the vehicle failed to comply and sped off and crashed in a wooded area, witnesses reported men running from the vehicle to State Route 11.  The 1st suspect was taken into custody in a wooded area, he was identified as 23 year old Christopher White of Brooklyn, and he was transported to Wilson Hospital for evaluation and later released back to the custody of troopers. Police located the driver of the vehicle, 27 year old Naquan McMaster of Brooklyn in Kirkwood; he was also treated at Wilson Hospital for an injury & was turned over the custody of Police.  Binghamton police located the 3rd male, 18 year old Konnor Scharborough of Elmira.  All 3 were charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & were processed at Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 10 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday, they are up to 999 total confirmed cases with 44 active cases,  0 hospitalizations, 8 deaths, 753 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, and 39 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students.

Delaware County Public Health reported 3 new cases of COVID 19 Thursday, they now have 22 active cases, 4 are hospitalized, 111 are quarantined, and the county is up to 165 cases.  There have been 9 deaths, 134 recoveries & almost 24000 tests performed.

On Monday, the Sidney Police Department arrested a 17 year old male and charged him Vehicular assault, Reckless endangerment, Reckless driving, DWI, speeding and other infractions.  The arrest is the result of a nearly 4 month investigation of a person being struck by a motor vehicle in the early morning hours of July 11th.  The 17 year old male was arraigned in Delaware County Youth Court and released to a legal guardian.

Effective November 1, the New York State Traffic Law requires that ALL back seat passengers  in a motor vehicle be restrained by a safety belt or an appropriate child restraint system.  The new law amends the former law which only required that back seat passengers under the age of 16 be restrained by a seatbelt or an appropriate child restraint system, more information is available dmv.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-18-20

The Otsego County Department of Health, Bassett Medical Center & NYS Department of Health has partnered to provide a rapid testing to Otsego County residents.  The testing will be performed on Tuesday & Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day at the Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center on Market Street in Oneonta, for those who pre-register at 547-4279.

Chenango County Public Health announced their latest COVID 19 numbers today; they still report 245 total cases, with 6 active cases & 1 current hospitalization, & 104 quarantines.  Chenango County has had 7 deaths, 220 recoveries & they have performed over 26,400 tests.

Delaware County Sheriff Deputies arrested 33 year old Edwin McGraw of Hancock following the report of a possible trespass in progress at a remote camp in the Town of Tompkins Wednesday.  Deputies discovered evidence of forced entry to an unoccupied residence and boat house, with the theft of 1 or more firearms. McGraw was charged with 2nd degree burglary, 4th degree Grand larceny & criminal mischief; he was arraigned and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility in lieu of $5,000 cash bail pending his appearance in the Town of Tompkins Court on a later date.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is expanding online services, making it easier for New Yorkers to do business with the DMV from the comfort of their homes, and allowing the DMV to serve more customers in person who cannot complete their transactions online. The DMV has initiated a pilot program to offer the written learner permit tests for passenger cars and motorcycles online. It is also piloting a process to allow customers who reside in counties served by the state DMV to register their vehicles online. More information can be found on the DMV website at dmv.ny.gov.

A.M. News Friday 9-18-20

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office in Florida found the body of Otsego County Native Michael Shaver buried under a concrete slab in the backyard of his home in 2018,  his wife, 37-year-old Laurie Shaver, has been arrested for 2nd-degree homicide.  Shaver's family had told authorities that they had not heard from Michael since 2015.

Delaware County Sheriff office arrested a Delaware County inmate after a Correction Officer discovered contraband during a routine cell search conducted in late August. 33-year-old Christiaan Stewart of Bloomville was charged with promoting prison contraband, Stewart will be arraigned the Town of Delhi Court on a later date to answer the charge.

Delaware County Sheriff's Department arrested 37-year-old Level 2 Sex Offender Martin Planty of Walton for failure to register a change in his residential address.   Planty, who was previously convicted, in the State of Florida, he was arraigned by teleconference, and was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail pending his appearance in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date.

Commerce Chenango & The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce have teamed up for an event next Tuesday, September 22nd, where there members can get answer to questions they may have from the Small Business Administration officials.  Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 9-18-20)

The online event will be held Tuesday from 12:00 PM thru 1:00 PM, more information is available from Commerce Chenango at 334-1400 or the Delaware County Chamber at 746-2281

Otsego County Department of Health reported 5 new cases of COVID 19 were reported Thursday, 3 are related to the SUNY Oneonta outbreak and 2 are county residents.  Current COVID numbers: there have been 692 confirmed cases linked to SUNY Oneonta, 16 confirmed cases in Hartwick College students, 26 active cases currently residing in the county.  There have been a total of 853 cases, 1 person is hospitalized.

Delaware County is reporting no new positive test result for COVID-19 and no additional recoveries. The known active cases in the County as of today remains 3, all are recovering at home. To date there have been 117 confirmed positive cases of COVID19 in Delaware County, with 55 people now under mandatory quarantine, 6 people have died and 108 have fully recovered.