WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 4-1-26

The State DOT posted an update this afternoon, stating that I-88 is closed for a 9.5-mile stretch between Exits 10 and 12 in both directions, with a detour along State Route 7 currently in place. State Police noticed atypical erosion along the highway embankment that could potentially compromise the safety of the road. Out of an abundance of caution, the highway was closed Tuesday, Engineers are exploring the cause of this erosion, and a contractor is mobilizing in anticipation of emergency repairs along the road. The highway will continue to be closed until our engineers deem it safe to reopen.

The Masonville Town Board announced that tonight's meeting has been re-scheduled, their next meeting will be held on Wednesday April 8th at 7:30 PM.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 4-1-26

The Unadilla Fire Department announced an update on the I-88 Closure between Exit 10 and Exit 12. I-88 is currently closed westbound at Exit 12, to Exit 10, also the Route 357 bridge over the Susquehanna River is closed at this time, due to tractor trailers being unable to safely navigate the detour turn on to State Route 7. Motorists are urged to allow for extra travel time, and exercise caution while traveling along the detour on State Route 7.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies will host their annual Meet the Ponies event at the Holiday Inn Downtown Binghamton Tonight at 5 pm at the Holiday Inn Downtown Binghamton. The event will begin with an autograph session at 5 pm and at 6:45 pm. the program will continue with an introduction of the 2026 coaching staff and players. The Rumble Ponies open the 2026 season on the road Friday against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. The home opener is on Tuesday, April 7 against the Somerset Patriots at 6:07 pm. Season Tickets, Ballpark Passes, Flex Tickets, and Individual Game Tickets for the 2026 season are on sale by visiting Mirabito Stadium, by phone at (607)-722-3866, or online at bingrp.com.

The next meeting of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce will be this morning at 8:00 AM, at Club 55 Restaurant on Union Street, Chamber members & directors are encouraged to attend.

The Oneonta Town Board will hold a Public Hearing on April 8th regarding Plans to build an artificial intelligence data center at 359 County Road 9, which were put on hold following a 1 year moratorium on the project. Town Residents submitted a petition with over 700 signatures opposing the project by Eco-Yotta.

For the entire month of March The Delaware Valley Humane Society will be having a Can & Bottle drive where people are encouraged to drop off bags of redeemable cans & bottle at the shelter, pick ups can be arranged for those within 8 miles of our shelter with 10 or more bags to pick up, call the shelter to make arrangements at (607) 563-7780. The shelter will also accept dry dog food, canned dog and cat food, cleaning supplies, such as Fabulosa and bleach, and Clorox wipes.

DCMO BOCES is inviting local businesses and industry professionals to participate in connecting our soon-to-be graduates on Applications Day on Tuesday, April 14, from 12:00-2:00 PM at the Robert W. Harrold Campus. Interested Businesses can find out more by calling 607-865-2514.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 35 year old Warren McKee of Milford for Dissemination of Indecent Material to Minors, following an investigation in to a report of a suspect engaging in sexual online communications with a subject he believed to be a juvenile. Investigation revealed that McKee utilized text messaging and instant messaging from a social media platform to solicit sex from the juvenile. McKee was located at his residence and taken in to custody without incident, he was processed and issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Milford Court at a later date.

Thousands of unlawful vape and marijuana products were seized from a Conklin gas station as part of a compliance check by the Broome County Health Department. On March 9, members of the Sheriff’s Office and the Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force assisted the Broome County Health Department with a flavored nicotine vape compliance check at the “One Dream” Sunoco gas station located at 976 Conklin Rd in the Town of Conklin, they seized approximately 4,000 unlawful flavored nicotine vapes along with THC products, The business does not possess a valid license to dispense THC products. The unlawful flavored vapes are not taxed. In 2019, New York raised the legal age to purchase tobacco and vape products to 21, and in 2020 the state banned the sale of flavored vaping products, other than tobacco flavor. The compliance check was generated via a tip from the Susquehanna Valley Central School District.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 1-22-26

A Winter Storm Watch will be in effect from Saturday Night through Monday night, local meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Rich Townsend 1-22-26)

We will have our complete tri-county forecast following this news cast.

31 school districts were designated in some level of fiscal stress under State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System, up from 22 districts in fiscal stress the prior year. schools avoided stress after receiving COVID relief funds, but that money distribution has concluded, in the Tri-County Region, only the Cooperstown District made the list as a school Susceptible to fiscal stress.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 45 year old Timothy Heady of Smyrna following a narcotics investigation. The Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant Tuesday in the Town of Smyrna, they seized 1 pound of methamphetamine packaged for distribution & cash from suspected drug sales. Heady was taken into custody at the scene & was charged with multiple Counts of 2nd & 3rd Degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, plus Tampering with Physical Evidence, He was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 12-5-25

State Police responded Thursday afternoon to State Route 12B in the town of Sherburne for a report of a 2-car accident. An investigation determined that a tractor trailer, driven by 57 year old Jacob Relyea of Bridgeport encountered a white-out snow squall, lost control and crossed over into the southbound lane, colliding head on with a sedan driven by 32 year old Danica Jones of Earlville, she was pronounced dead at the scene, Troopers administered a Standard Field Sobriety Test and Relyea showed no signs of impairment, he was issued tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations, The investigation is ongoing.

Due to Thursday night's drop in temperatures, The Norwich BID announced that the 2025 Holiday Tree Lighting will now be NEXT Thursday, December 11th at 6:30pm in West Park in downtown Norwich.

The popular Dickens Nights returns to the Fenimore Farms in Cooperstown Saturday & Sunday and will feature performances from Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” spokesperson Kerri Green explains:

(Kerri Green 12-5-25)

Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. For more information on ticket, pricing and details on our specialty events go to: www.fenimorefarm.org/glimmernights or call (607) 547-1450 for more information.

50 year old Paul Graham of Binghamton was found guilty of 1st Degree Assault and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in Broome County Court. The verdict comes in response to a January 4th incident during which Graham used a cane knife to stab the victim through the heart, causing life-threatening injuries. The victim required immediate surgery but survived the attack. Graham has a prior criminal conviction, his weapons charge became a felony. Graham faces up to 25 years in state prison when he is sentenced in March.

2 Holiday Parades are being held locally tonight & on Saturday, 4towns Forward President Teri Schunk told WCDO about tonight's "Holly Jolly" Sidney Festivities:

(Teri Schunk 12-5-25)

4 Towns Forward spokesman Ed Curley told WCDO about Afton's festivities on Saturday:

(Ed Curley 12-5-25)

More holiday parades are scheduled locally the following weekend in Bainbridge & Unadilla.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-26-25

DEP Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala and Delaware County Board of Supervisors Chair Tina Molé signed an intergovernmental agreement that strengthens watershed protection while supporting the long-term vitality of our communities. Delaware County Planning Director Shelly Johnson Bennett told WCDO news about the new 4 year plan;

(Shelly Johnson Bennett 11-6-25)

Johnson-Bennett said that typically a new agreement is agreed upon ever 4 years to protect the Watershed region of Delaware County, as well as New York City's drinking water supply in the reservoirs.

A Chenango County Grand Jury indicted 21 year old Kaylub Rifanburg of Norwich for 2nd & 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon and possession of burglar’s tools. The indictment states that on August 25, Rifanburg was stopped by Norwich Police following a report of an erratic driver, Police discovered a loaded 9mm pistol, a large-capacity magazine, and a backpack containing ski masks and a lock pick. He faces court action on the Grand Jury charges at a later date.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office and family members of a missing Vestal man are still seeking answers to help locate 69 year old Eddie Rouhana, who been missing since January 11th. Rouhana was last seen at his business, Cars-R-US, located at 1170 of Upper Front Street in the Town of Chenango. Cell phone records show his phone was last used later that same day. The Rouhana family is offering a $20,000 reward for any information that leads directly to Eddie Rouhana’s whereabouts. Please report any tips, video footage, sightings, or information to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at Tip Line at (607) 778-1196.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-26-25

The State Department of Criminal Justice Services & Ithaca Police were looking for 13 year old Kalia Hobbs of Ithaca, who was considered a missing endangered child, who had not been seen since Monday Afternoon at about 2:00 PM. The alert was dropped at about 6:30 This Morning, with Hobbs considered to be safe.

Area Chambers of Commerce remind shoppers that that Saturday is Small Business Saturday, to encourage people to support local small businesses. The day promotes shopping locally to boost the local economies, create jobs, and support the unique character of municipalities.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-7-25

State Police are continuing the investigation into a shooting on the SUNY Morrisville Campus Monday, where a 20 year old man who was not a student was shot in the neck. The victim was taken to a Syracuse area Hospital, no arrests have been made, The preliminary investigation into the shooting has determined that this was an isolated dispute between people who were familiar with each other. The investigation remains active, and State Police are working closely with our state and local law enforcement partners.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Detail in Otsego County, 1 business was found to be not in compliance, an employee of Rudy’s Liquor Store in Cooperstown was issued an appearance ticket for Prohibited Sale of Alcohol to a Person Under 21. 9 other Otsego County Businesses complied, businesses are checked utilizing a Trooper in plain clothes and 1 or more underage operatives who cannot lie about their age or provide a false date of birth (if asked).

Commerce Chenango will hold their next "Business After Hours" event on Monday, at the New York State Veterans Home in Oxford. The event runs from 4:30 to 6:00 PM to coincide with Veteran's Day the following day.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 11-7-25

State Police arrested 20 year old Ashton Pratt and 30 year old Amy Mills both of Glen Aubrey, for 1st & 2nd Degree Assault, NY, on Tuesday, Troopers responded to a stabbing on State Route 26 in the town of Nanticoke, where a road rage incident between 2 vehicles escalated into a violent altercation, resulting in a 40-year-old male victim being stabbed. The victim reported that a male and female exited their vehicle, Mills is accused of grabbing the victim by his sweatshirt, while Pratt is accused of stabbing the victim in the upper body, they fled the area, The victim was transported to Wilson Hospital for treatment; his injuries are not considered life-threatening. Through a collaborative effort among multiple State Police units, both suspects were located on Wednesday and were taken into custody without incident. Pratt and Mills were processed and transported to the Broome County Correctional Facility for Arraignment, The investigation is ongoing.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 10-14-25

State Police arrested 28 year old Austin Darrow of New Milford, Pennsylvania, for Unlawful Fleeing of a Police Officer in a Motor Vehicle. On October 4th, a Trooper observed a sedan following a vehicle too close on I-81 and then fail to stop at a stop sign at 2 locations, when the Trooper attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the operator took off at a high rate of speed, into the state of Pennsylvania. With the assistance of Pennsylvania State Police, Troopers were able to locate Darrow, he turned himself in at the Binghamton Barracks and he was issued traffic tickets and an appearance ticket to the Kirkwood Town Court on November 5th.

Flu season is underway in New York State, and Chenango County Health Department officials are reminding residents to stay proactive and get their flu shot as soon as possible, Spokesperson Heather Miller explains:

(Heather Miller 10-14-25)

Chenango County reported 250 confirmed flu cases last year, and with respiratory viruses like RSV and COVID-19 still circulating, taking preventive measures, such as vaccination, can make a significant difference in keeping our community healthy. Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-19-25

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced that in observance of New York State Sheriff's Week, the Delaware County Sheriff's Office will be hosting an Open House event on Sunday, September 21st, 2025, from 12pm-3pm at their office located at 280 Phoebe Lane, Delhi. Live demonstrations will be conducted by the K-9 Teams, Drone Pilots, Project Lifesaver Team, and our Motor Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist, plus Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians from Delaware County Public Health will conduct a Car Seat Safety event.

A Nate Lull Scholarship Fundraiser will be held at the Colonial Ridge Golf Course this weekend Lull told WCDO News about the event:

(Nate Lull 9-19-25)

To register, call the Golf Course directly at 607-263-5291.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-19-25

40 year old Mark Archer of Sidney pleaded guilty to 3 counts of Sexual Abuse in Delaware County Court Thursday. Archer was indicted by a Grand Jury on 12 counts related to sexual abuse against 3 victims were less than 13 years old between 2013 and 2019 in the Village of Sidney, Archer will be sentenced to 13.5 years in state prison and 30 years of post-release supervision, he will be required to register as a sex offender after prison & he is prohibited from contacting his victims.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 18-year-old Kayden Wilcox of East Meredith, in June, Deputies received a complaint that a male subject was in possession of child pornography, Investigators responded to a residence in the Town of Kortright to seize electronic evidence. Wilcox was in possession of obscene sexual material of a child, the Sheriff’s Office arrested Wilcox on 1 count of Possessing an Obscene Sexual Performance by a Child, he was released on an appearance ticket and directed to return to the Town of Kortright Court at a later date.

The City of Norwich is one of this year’s Preserve New York grantees, they will receive $20,000 to fund the Broad Street-Main Street Historic District Nomination. The City's district includes 21 contiguous buildings located between Main Street at the northern boundary to Hayes Street at the southern boundary. The Designation will update information from previously prepared National Register Nominations and encourage owners to invest in preserving and improving their historic buildings.

On Saturday, September 6th, from 11 am. to 3 pm., the New York State Police will be hosting a “Service Day” open house event at the State Police Academy on the Harriman State Office Campus at 1220 Washington Avenue in Albany. The event is free & is open to the public, there will be live demonstrations, including our K9 Unit, Aviation Unit, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drone) unit, Underwater Recovery Team and more. There will also be free child safety seat installations, fun family activities and food trucks.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Detail Friday in Delaware County. 12 area business in Sidney, Masonville, Walton, Delhi, & Franklin were in compliance, 1 business was not in compliance, as an employee of Carroll and Carvers Wine and Spirits in Sidney was issued an appearance ticket for the violation for Prohibited Sale of Alcohol to a Person Under 21. During these investigations, businesses are checked utilizing a Trooper in plain clothes and one or several underage operatives who cannot lie about their age or provide a false date of birth.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 9-2-25

19 year old Jayden Aviles of Maryland, New York, appeared in Delaware County Court & pleaded guilty to 1 count of Criminally Negligent Homicide, On September 29, 2024, the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched for a 1 car MVA into a house on State Route 23 in the Town of Davenport, they determined that Aviles was the driver of the vehicle and appeared to be impaired by drugs, his vehicle had hit 2 individuals in the house, with one suffering injuries and the other passing as a result of the crash. Sentencing will be held on November 18th.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office concluded the death investigation in the Town of Conklin that has been ruled a murder-suicide stemming from an ongoing family dispute. On Friday, August 22nd, 65 year old Michael Shuta of Conklin was found deceased in Montrose, Pennsylvania, Shuta’s death was ruled a suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Police in Pennsylvania and New York believe that Shuta shot his nephew, 41 year old Matthew Slavetskas of Conklin, who was found dead by Officers at his Brady Hill Road residence. Detectives reported that both pistols used in the murder and the suicide were registered to Shuta.

21 year old Joseph Vanblarcom of Middletown was sentenced in Delaware County Court last week to 1 year in prison for Grand Larceny. Vanblarcom admitted that he and 2 other individuals entered City of New York property and stole a DEP owned woodchipper. VanBlarcom was placed on interim probation after his conviction, but he violated his probation when he was arrested for DWI in Ulster County, which increased his sentence to jail time.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-26-25

Plans are in the works for Delaware County to get 10 Weather stations set up within the next 2 months, County Planning Director Shelly Johnson-Bennett told WCDO News that Delaware County has the most declared disasters & had no weather stations to watch for severe weather conditions:

(Shelly Johnson Bennett 8-26-25)

Johnson Bennett said that this week, officials will be scoping out locations for the weather stations, tied into town or village buildings around Delaware County, plans may also include tieing the program into Science classes at high schools in the County.

The Norwich Police Department arrested 21 year old Kaylub Rifanburg of Norwich for Criminal Possession of a weapon, & possession of burglar tools following a traffic stop Monday. Police discovered a loaded 9mm handgun during the traffic stop on South Broad Street, on Monday afternoon in the City of Norwich. Norwich Police Department received a complaint about an erratic driver, the vehicle in question was located, police found the handgun with a 15 round magazine seated in the pistol. Rifanburg was arraigned and was released on his own recognizance, & he will appear in court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond announced that in observance of New York State Sheriff's Week, the Delaware County Sheriff's Office will be hosting an Open House event on Sunday, September 21st, 2025, from 12pm-3pm at their office located at 280 Phoebe Lane, Delhi. Live demonstrations will be conducted by the K-9 Teams, Drone Pilots, Project Lifesaver Team, and our Motor Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist, plus Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians from Delaware County Public Health will conduct a Car Seat Safety event.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 8-26-25

Michele Frazier of Delhi announced that she will run again for the State Senate in the 51st District, Frazier ran for this seat in 2024, is a former Oneonta City Councilmember. Frazier is a local Realtor and teaches Political Science, more information is available at michelefrazier.com. She lost to Republican Peter Oberacker in 2024, Oberacker is reportedly looking to run for Congress.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 8-7-25

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 45 year old Brook Romano of the town of Maryland for Burglary, Resisting arrested & Petty Larceny, following an investigation into a residential burglary. Romano was located at her residence, she resisted arrest while being taken into custody, she was processed and was turned over to the Otsego County Correctional Facility for arraignment.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 31 year old Amber Weil of Delhi & 28 year old Brandin Vantassel of Delhi, after Deputies on patrol in Delhi Tuesday observed a vehicle being operated by a female, who had a suspended New York State driver's license A traffic stop was conducted and a quantity of Methamphetamine and prescription pills were located within the vehicle. Weil was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Failure to Surrender a Revoked or Suspended Driver’s License, & Unlicensed Operator, plus 2 counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Vantassel was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, both were released on appearance tickets for Town of Delhi court at a later date.

The Orange County Department of Health reported that the West Nile Virus was detected in the Greenwood Lake area of Orange County. As the cases get closer to our region, Health Departments remind residents to remove standing Water in bird baths, recycling bins or any other outside container, Make sure that roof gutters drain properly, and clean any clogged gutters, Turn over wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use. Symptoms of West Nile virus infection include Fever, Headaches, Body aches, Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, Swollen lymph nodes and a Rash.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 8-7-25

40 year old Jorge Cortina of Binghamton was convicted in Broome County Court for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Criminally Using Drug Paraphernalia. On September 4, 2024, Cortina was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped for a traffic infraction, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, a handgun, and a digital scale used to weigh narcotics. Cortina faces up to 12 years in State Prison and is scheduled to be sentenced on October 27th.

Former Broome County Family Court Judge Richard Miller was ordered to pay 200 thousand dollars to his former secretary for sexual harassment. A Federal Court Jury awarded the damages to Rachel Gallagher, who had claimed that Miller created a hostile work environment, which included tricking them into seeing nude photos and crude descriptions of sexual acts and the repeated demands that Gallagher perform sexual acts with him. The suit also claimed that Miller would threaten the plaintiffs with physical harm or death if they betrayed him. Miller was removed from the bench in 2020.

The Next Commerce Chenango Business After Hours will be held today at Kerry at their Woods Corners facility on State Route 320 in Norwich. Members can attend between 4:30 & 6:00 PM.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-23-25

Tuesday is Primary Day in New York State, The Chenango County Republican Party Primary Elections will be held in the towns of Afton, Plymouth, Smithville and Smyrna. Sample ballots can be viewed at chenangocountyny.gov; or by calling the Chenango County Board of Elections at 607-337-1760. In Delaware County: Republicans will vote for a candidate for County Treasurer between Ronda Williams & Carli Pinner; In the Town of Sidney, 4 Republicans are running for 2 seats on the Town Board, between Richard DeCola, Frank Selleck, William Hunt & Andrew Hinkley. in the town of Colchester, 2 republicans are seeking the nomination for town supervisor between Robert Hafele and Arthur Merrill, in Hancock, Jerry Vernold & David Rubera are seeking the nomination for Town Supervisor, in the town of Meredith James Ellis and Richard Pagillo are seeking the nomination for Town Supervisor, More information is available at the County Board of Elections page at co.delaware.ny.us. There are no Democratic Party primaries in Chenango or Delaware Counties & there are no primaries in Otsego County this year.

Chenango County Office of Emergency Services announced that the Travel Advisory will remain in effect for the next few days, following flash flooding & damaged roads following Sunday's Storms. Motorists may encounter localized closures, washouts and debris in the roadways, crews are out working to make the repairs as soon as possible, Motorists should be watching for road signs while traveling through work zones where our DPW personnel may be working

The State Health Department reminds people that there are "Cooling Centers” set up around the state where people can go to get out of the heat, in Norwich, the YMCA is a cooling center, call 607-316-8277, in Delaware County, all Libraries are participating, and in Otsego County, pools are available at the Greater Plains school in Oneonta, the Otego town pool, plus the Wilber Pool and Worcester Pool, plus the SUNY Oneonta A.J. Read Science Discovery Center & The Family Service Association on Chestnut Street.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a stolen rental car, where the victim stated that he had rented an SUV from Enterprise, but it had been stolen by his girlfriend, Christine Turner, who took the vehicle to Rochester and would not be returning the rental. On Friday, the missing SUV was located in Binghamton, patrols attempted a traffic stop, but Turner failed to comply, she eventually stopped & was forcibly removed from the vehicle, and her passenger, Christina Yacalis, were both placed into custody. Turner was charged with Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Obstruction of Governmental Administration & Multiple traffic violations, Yacalis was charged with Criminal Possession of Controlled Substances, both were arraigned and were released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Maine Court & City of Binghamton Court.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held today in Cooperstown from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W, appointments can be made with the Red Cross Blood donor App, at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS.

17,000 Canadians have been evacuated as active wildfires have charred hundreds of thousands of acres in the country. Forecasters expected that the smoke from the wildfires in Saskatchewan & Manitoba will likely affect the Northeast & south to the Carolina's over the next few days. The fires have burned over 800,000 acres recently in Canada

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 5-30-25

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 39 year old Richard Terrell of Afton following an investigation into the report of a stolen UTV from the Town of Harpursville. The investigation led Detectives to the Town of Afton, they were able to recover the stolen UTV from that location, the UTV sustained significant damage Terrell was charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Criminal Mischief, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Terrell was taken into custody without incident and arraigned & was held without bail and is to appear in the Town of Afton Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 53 year old Robert Smith of Sidney, for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle, Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol, and Operating a Motor Vehicle against Interlock Restrictions, and several other violations following a Traffic Stop in the Town of Unadilla. Smith was found to have a revoked driver’s license in New York State, he was processed and released & will appear in court at a later date.

The Sidney Central School District announced the 13th annual Summer Enrichment & Summer Sports Camps, which will run from July 7th to July 31st, Monday through Thursday, The link to register will be found on our school district website. Registration is now open, and slots are limited, & will continue until filled or closed June 6th, more information is available at 607-561-7701.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-6-25

Some severe weather and flash flooding could be an issue locally over the next few hours, Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Townsend 5-6-25)

We'll have our complete tri county forecast at the end of this news cast.

Whitney Bachanas appeared in Otsego County Court & pleaded guilty to Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, she was charged after law enforcement found a dog, a turkey, a chicken & a quail dead on her property in Milford, she pleaded guilty in a plea bargain arrangement, she will be sentenced in June to 100 days of house arrest with an electronic monitor. She will be prohibited from owning or possessing animals and will likely face fines.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 5-6-25

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested several people on a variety of charges following a Burglary in progress report at a residence in the town of Pittsfield Sunday. Arrested were 24 year old Autumn Knapp of Morris, 50 year old Richard Suarez of Morris, 49 year old Travis Wilson of Pittsfield, and 41 year old Danielle Bemis of Pittsfield. It was reported that 4 subjects were inside of a house actively removing property, A Sheriff’s Office sergeant arrived on scene and located the defendants, additional deputies arrived on scene, the defendants were transported to the Otsego County Correctional Facility to await Centralized Arraignment. Travis Wilson and Danielle Bemis were remanded on $5,000 cash or $10,000 surety bond, Autumn Knapp was remanded on $15,000 cash or $30,000 surety bond, and Richard Suarez was remanded without bail. The investigation is on-going and additional charges are pending.

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 42 year old Justin Ingalls of Hartwick following a warrant investigation. Ingalls was located by Deputies attempting to enter the Otsego County Jail for the purpose of retrieving bail money, he was taken into custody on 6 active bench warrants issued by various courts within Otsego County, he was ordered to be held at the jail on $17,000 dollars cash bail.

Attorneys general from 17 states , including New York, are challenging an executive order President Trump signed, pausing approvals, permits and loans for all wind energy projects both onshore and offshore. The lawsuit claims that Trump doesn't have the authority to unilaterally shut down the permitting process, and he's jeopardizing development of a power source critical to the states’ economic vitality, energy mix, public health and climate goals, they are asking a federal judge to declare the order unlawful and stop federal agencies from implementing it.

The Otsego County Department of Health & Bassett Healthcare Network, is launching the development of the 2025–2030 Community Health Needs Assessment. They are seeking input from residents, businesses, and organizations across Otsego County to help shape future health initiatives and improve the overall well-being of our communities. Community members can provide feedback by Completing an online survey at arcg.is, by Calling the Otsego County Department of Health at 607-547-4230 to have a paper copy mailed to you The Deadline for Feedback is April 16th, All responses will remain confidential, more information is available at 607-547-4230

The Great New York State Fair has announced more of its music lineup, the Festivities kick off on Wednesday, Aug. 20, and continue through Labor Day, Monday, September 1st. The Fair’s 2025 Chevrolet Music Series will showcase more than 40 national recording artists, Concerts are daily at 1 pm. and 6 pm. at Chevy Court with an 8 pm. performance each evening at Suburban Park on the western end of the Fairgrounds, More information is available at nysfair.ny.gov/venue/chevy-court

The Jericho Arts Council presents another popular Bluegrass concert Saturday night at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, spokesman Phil Wade Comments:

(Phil Wade 3-21-25)

Tickets can be reserved by calling 607-288-3882.

23 year old Gage Pankiewicz of Walton was sentenced to 5 years of felony probation supervision for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, in Delaware County Court this week. On September 4, 2024, deputies executed a search warrant in Walton on suspicion of drug trafficking. A forcible entry was made, and deputies arrested Pankiewicz, among other suspects. During the search, methamphetamine, fentanyl, packaging materials, scales, and a rifle were seized. If Pankiewicz fails to abide by the terms of his probation, he faces up to 2 1/2 years in state prison.

29 year old Tyler Long of Sidney was sentenced to 1 to 3 years in prison in Delaware County Court this week, for failing to abide by the terms of the Sex Offender Registry. Long had previously pleaded guilty to Failure to Register an Internet Account. Last July, the Delaware County Probation advised Sidney Police Department that Long had 6 separate unregistered email accounts that he failed to report to the Probation Department, Long’s probation supervision was terminated, and Long was sentenced to a prison term of 1 to 3 years.

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Sunday to a weapons complaint in the Town of Maine. Deputies located a female victim bleeding from her neck and proceeded with medical aid until Emergency Medical Services transported her to UHS Wilson hospital. 27 year old Shamirah Hauer of Port Crane, had been assisting the victim with putting in hair extensions for nearly an hour before she began to strike the victim with her fists and a pair of scissors, a 3rd party stopped the assault, Hauer left the scene, the male witness called 911. Vestal Police and State Police assisted & Hauer was taken into custody without further incident, she was charged with 1st degree Assault,m she was arraigned & was being held at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-3-25

The Broome County District Attorney's Office announced that Patrick Proefriedt of Colesville, pleaded guilty to 2nd degree Murder in Broome County Court. On June 26th, 2023, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office was called to 2208 Route 41 in the Town of Colesville for a report of a shooting, it was discovered that Proefriedt had shot his wife and newborn daughter with a crossbow. The child was pronounced dead at the scene and his wife was released from the hospital later that day with non-life-threatening injuries, Proefiedt faces a sentence up to life in prison when sentenced at a later date.

State Police at Norwich were dispatched by the Chenango County 911 Center to State Route 12 in Oxford for a report of a vehicle on fire at about 1:20 AM Saturday.  When Troopers arrived on scene, members of the Oxford Fire Department were extinguishing the fire and discovered the driver of the vehicle was deceased.  An investigation determined that while northbound on State Route 12, the Nissan SUV went off the roadway, struck a guiderail then hit a tree and caught on fire.  The driver and only occupant, is identified as 25 year old Christopher Ojuro of New Hartford.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated an animal abuse case where multiple cats were living in a residence, the owner was advised to get the animals treatment and was provided with contacts for local humane societies and veterinary clinics, she failed to improve the living conditions of about 70 cats, the majority of the animals were voluntarily surrendered to a 3rd party. Deputies were assisted by the Heart of the Catskills Humane Society and the Delhi Veterinary Hospital in Delhi to ensure the proper care of the animals. Deputies discovered that several animals died, they arrested 66 year old Gail Kutler of Walton for 5 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals & 60 counts of animal cruelty. Kutler was taken to the Delaware County Correctional Facility where she was held for arraignment, she is scheduled to appear at a later date in the Town of Walton Court.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 29 year old David Piskacek of Margaretville following a DMV records check, Piskacek’s driving privileges were suspended and revoked 25 times and he was actively on probation supervision. Deputies released Piskacek at the time and directed him to respond to Delaware County Probation at a later date. On February 19th, while at Delaware County Probation, Piskacek was arrested for aggravated unlicensed operator, operating a motor vehicle without a court ordered interlock device, and unlicensed operator. Piskacek was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on a probation violation and was directed to appear at the Town of Middletown Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-3-25

State Attorney General Letitia James co-led a coalition of 22 other attorneys general in filing a 2nd motion for enforcement in their ongoing lawsuit against the Trump administration's illegal federal funding freeze. Despite multiple court orders, the administration has continued to block hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to the states from FEMA, which freezes emergency preparedness and recovery programs addressing wildfires, floods, cybersecurity threats, and more. Attorney General James and the coalition's second motion for enforcement, seeks a court order to require the release of funds if the Trump administration is unable to provide evidence that they have been unfrozen.

The Nate Lull Scholarship application window is now open at Nate Lull.com. $15,000 dollars will be handed out this year, so far the Scholarship has handed out $45,000 dollars to local high school seniors in our coverage area. The deadline is May 16th.

21 year old Christian Rogler of the Town of Maine, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court for Leaving the Scene of a Fatal Accident and Attempted Rape. Rogler's guilty plea stems from two separate criminal incidents, last September in the Town of Dickinson, Rogler struck and killed Jamel Smalls of Binghamton, and fled the scene of the crash. Rogler will be sentenced to 2 and 1/3 to 7 years in State Prison, and in 2021, in Johnson City, Rogler engaged in an attempted sexual assault of an underage person, he will receive 3 and ½ years in State Prison, followed by 10 years of post-release supervision. Rogler is also required to register as a sex offender and a final no-contact order of protection will be issued for the victim. Sentencing is scheduled for May 28th.

34 year old Kyle Oakley of South Kortright was sentenced in Delaware County Court to state prison for violating the terms of his probation. Oakley had previously pleaded guilty in 2023, to 3rd degree Burglary because of a forced entry into a seasonal residence during March of 2022, he was sentenced to a 5-year term of felony probation supervision, in subsequent court appearances, he admitted to using illegal narcotics, Driving while intoxicated, obstructing governmental administration and this week, Oakley made further admissions to violating the terms of his probation. Oakley was sentenced to an indeterminate term of imprisonment to last no less than one year and no more than three years.

The Otsego County Solid Waste Department is continuing with the annual Plastic Film Recycling Challenge where Otsego County Schools recycle things like bread bags, Grocery bags Bubble wraps & bring it to Trex Affiliated business where the totals are counted. Kyle King of the Otsego County Solid Waste Department comments:

(Kyle King 2-28-25)

King said that last year this challenge helped divert roughly 6 tons of plastic film from the landfills and helped promote recycling practices in our school aged community. The winning schools in each division will receive an ice cream social event in the spring.

The Jericho Arts Council & the Bainbridge Town Hall Theatre present "Yesterday Once More - A Tribute to The Carpenters" Saturday Night at 7:00 PM, Council Spokesman Phil Wade Comments:

(Phil Wade 2-28-25)

Wade said that in the gallery will be the works of Scott Higby, ​For ticket Reservations Call (607) 288-3882.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-28-25

State Police executed a search warrant in the town of Springfield for possible animal neglect. The investigation resulted in the removal of over 2-dozen animals. 8 dogs, 13 cats and 1 turtle were in need of immediate medical care and were turned over to the care of the Susquehanna SPCA. State Police were assisted by the Otsego County Emergency Services and the DEC, The investigation is on-going, charges are likely.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30 year old Joseph Schneider of Albany & 35 year old Samuel Smith of Hamilton on a number of drug charges, in North Norwich. Due to recent burglaries and larceny complaints Deputies were conducting property checks at storage units, when they observed a suspicious vehicle. Deputies located a quantity of Methamphetamine, packaging material, and a scale inside the vehicle. Schneider and Smith were taken into custody without incident. Both were arraigned and were released on their own recognizance. Schneider and Smith are to appear in the Town of North Norwich Court at a later date.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 35 year old Steven Torres-Figueroa of Smyrna for 2 counts of Menacing a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest, after investigation into a disabled vehicle complaint in the Town of Smyrna. Deputies located Torres-Figueroa, who became irate that his vehicle was getting towed for being a traffic & snow removal hazard. Torres-Figueroa went into his residence and retrieved a kitchen knife and began to approach the Deputies and Troopers on scene aggressively and disobey commands to comply. Deputies and Troopers were able to subdue Torres-Figueroa, he was arraigned in Chenango County Court and remanded to the Correctional Facility on $5,000 cash bail while awaiting his next court date.

Organizers for the annual Binghamton St. Patrick’s Day parade announced that it will be held on Saturday March 1st , it will start at 1:30 pm. at Fayette and Court Streets, a number of organizations have signed up to participate this year.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 2-20-25

Delaware County Sheriff’s Office responded Wednesday to a 2 car head on accident on County Highway 12 in the Town of Davenport. 1 person was trapped in 1 of the vehicles, EMT's attempted to perform life saving measures, however, 63-year-old Jean Bedard of Davenport was deceased, 53-year-old Richard Sanford of Davenport suffered minor injuries and was treated and released at the scene. State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit were called to the scene where the roadway remained closed for several hours while the crash was reconstructed by investigators.

19 year old Quamir Hazel of Endicott was sentenced in Broome County Court to 8.5 years in State Prison followed by 5 years of post-release supervision for Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Last August 16th in Vestal, Hazel was found to be in possession of an operable Glock 9mm firearm loaded with 18 rounds of ammunition. Hazel was originally expected to receive an 8-year sentence at today's sentencing. However, due to a petit larceny incident that occurred in the Broome County Jail, his sentence was extended by an additional 6 months.

2 incarcerated individuals were arrested this week after attacking corrections officers at the Broome County Correctional Facility in separate incidents. On Tuesday, 35 year old Aaron Raymond refused to remove clothing wrapped around his head and neck, he ignored commands, officers entered his cell, he became combative & grabbed an officer by the neck and collar and choking him, Raymond struck another officer in the face before the altercation ended. Raymond was charged with Assault on a Police Officer, 2nd degree Assault and Strangulation. Last Sunday 41 year old Michael Fiore of Binghamton, NY, attacked corrections staff while during booking for a contempt charge, Fiore refused several lawful orders to comply with the medical screening process before attacking corrections officers, kneeing 1 officer in the face and causing injury. Fiore was charged with 2nd degree Assault and Obstruction of Governmental Administration in the 2nd Degree.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 2-20-25

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced she has signed an Executive Order activating members of the New York National Guard to help ensure the safety and security of New York State's correctional facilities while the illegal and unlawful work stoppage by correction officers continues. This Order also provides authority for additional overtime compensation for correction officers and other staff who are reporting for duty and actively working to secure our facilities. Governor Hochul also directed the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision and the Office of Employee Relations to retain independent mediator Martin Scheinman to help bring a quick and immediate end to this illegal work stoppage. Earlier today, New York State filed an injunction under the Taylor Law and a judge granted a temporary restraining order mandating striking correction officers to cease the illegal activity.

State Police arrested 57 year old Todd Quick of Sidney for Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, following a one-vehicle crash where the vehicle went off of County Highway 14 in the town of Franklin. Quick failed the Field Sobriety Tests, he was arrested and his BAC was .20. He was processed and issued appearance tickets to the Franklin Town Court on March 13th & he was released to a sober third party. State Police announced that 13 people were charged with DWI in Troop C in the period of February 10th to the 16th.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-28-25

A Winter Weather Advisory is in in effect for part of the WCDO Listening area through Thursday Morning, with snow forecast throughout the local Counties, Meteorologist Rich Townsend comments:

(Rich Townsend 1-28-25)

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

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 63 year old Keith Hansen, of Oneonta, for Sex Offender Failure to Notify Change of Address, following an investigation in to a registered sex offender who relocated from his residence in the Town of Oneonta and did not make the proper notifications to the Sex Offender Registry. During the investigation, a warrant was issued out of the Town of Middlefield for Hansen after he failed to appear for court proceedings for a previous sex offender violation charge. Deputies responded to the Oneonta Police Department and took custody of Hansen Monday on the active warrant, he was processed and turned over to corrections staff to await Centralized Arraignment.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 52 year old Travis Button of Norwich for Failure to Notify Law Enforcement of an Address Change. Button is a level 2 sex offender, he is required to report a change of address to authorities where he is residing, Button failed to do so, and he is currently held at the Chenango County Correctional Facility and is to appear in the Town of Norwich Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Sunday in the Town of Kortright to a motor vehicle accident on County Highway 29, Deputies made contact with the driver, 23-year-old Jillian Bishop of Newburgh. Deputies arrested and charged Bishop with Driving While Intoxicated, Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, Failure to Keep right and Open container in a Motor vehicle, among other charges, Bishop was processed and released on appearance tickets for Town of Kortright Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 86 year old James Lieberman following a complaint involving a Juvenile at the Delhi Nursing and Rehab Center in the Town of Delhi. Lieberman is accused of exposing himself to a child less than 16 years of age, he was charged with public lewdness & endangering the welfare of a child and he is ordered to appear in Town of Delhi Court at a later date.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that Corporal Kyle Karcher, Deputy Justin Mohr, and Deputy Victor Altheim have been awarded the Deputy of the Year Award from the New York State Sheriffs' Institute. On September 4th, 2024, all three responded to a shots fired call in the Town of Hancock, They arrived on scene to find that a victim had been shot while walking his dog and had retreated into his residence with his girlfriend, as the perpetrator allegedly continued firing at their home.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-27-24

A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Midnight through 7:00 PM on Thanksgiving in Delaware, Otsego & Sullivan Counties, Meteorologist Rich Townsend told WCDO news about this storm:

(Rich Townsend 11-27-24)

the higher accumulations are expected to be in the higher elevation, mainly to the Eastern part of the WCDO Listening area, we'll have our Tri-County Forecast at the end of this news cast.

The Otsego County Department of Health reports that a bat tested positive for rabies in the town of Oneonta, 1 person was exposed and started rabies post exposure vaccinations. All dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated for rabies, Unvaccinated pets in contact with wildlife that is suspected or confirmed to be rabid must be either euthanized or strictly quarantined at owner’s expense for 6 months. More information is available at 607-547-4230 or otsegocounty.com.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 56 year old Scott Wood of Hamden for Driving While Intoxicated on November 16thth. Deputies responded to an assist EMS call on West Terry Clove Road for a male having trouble breathing, the male left the scene and was traveling on West Terry Clove Road. Deputies found a vehicle stopped in the roadway with a male asleep in the driver seat, who was identified as Scott Wood, who was charged with DWI & Driving with a BAC of .08 of higher, Open Container among other charges, he was released and will appear in the Town Hamden Court at a later date.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar released the results of the targeted, 5-week public safety and crime response initiative conducted by the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Response Group in Binghamton. From October 10th to November 15th , the Group's efforts resulted in 19 Narcotics Arrests, 14 Warrant Arrests, 43 Vehicle and Traffic Arrests, they conducted over 800 traffic stop and issued over 760 traffic violations.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-27-24

48 year old Scott Mawhiney of Deposit was found guilty in Broome County Court this week for Attempted Murder, Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer, Assault, Criminal Use of a Firearm, Criminal Possession of a Weapon among other charges. On June 23, 2021, Mawhiney was involved in a domestic incident, the 2 female victims escaped, State Police responded, Mawhiney armed himself & shot at Trooper Ryan Thorp, who received a career tending injury from a bullet fragment striking him, Mawhiney will be sentenced on February 26. He faces a potential maximum sentence of 30 years to life in prison.

The Jericho Arts Council Gallery Committee will be hosting their annual Artisan Holiday Gift Market Friday to Sunday from 10 am. to 4 pm. each day in the Gallery on the second floor of the Bainbridge Town Hall at 15 North Main Street. For further information go to www.jerichoarts.com.

The Delaware County Board of Elections announced that the ballot drop box previously outside the Board of Elections Office at 97 Main Street in Delhi, has been removed. Officials stated that It was taken down by maintenance in response to a directive from the chair of the Board of Supervisors, Tina Mole, citing security issues and a contentious election. Anyone who received an absentee or early vote by mail ballot who prefers not to return it by mail can deliver it to the Board of Elections office during normal business hours, from 8:30AM to 4:00 PM, and during some extended hours during early voting being held at our Delhi Office, October 28 through November 3. Absentee/early mail ballots can also be delivered to any poll site on Election Day, November 5th.

A.M. NEWS Monday 10-21-24

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 36 year old Brian Worden of Sidney following an investigation into medications not being taken properly in the Otsego County Correctional Facility. Worden was charged with Attempted Promoting Prison Contraband when he failed to take his prescribed medication properly and attempted to remove the medication from the medication room but was caught by a Correctional Officer, he was issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

Chenango County Planning Director Shane Butler announced that there was a great turnout for our open house on the Chenango County 2050 Vision Plan Draft last week. Chenango County residents can Check out the plan at chenangocounty2050.com, residents can provide comments and feedback over the next few weeks, the next step is adoption by the County Board.

A new economic impact report finds that the annual GDP of New York State Parks and Historic Sites amounted to $3.7 billion in 2021, an impact that rivals the state's agricultural sector, which generated $3.3 billion during the same year. Park visitors generated $5.8 billion in sales, $2.5 billion in labor income, for every $1 million invested in parks results in $10 million in sales, $4 million in labor income, and $7 million in state GDP. Of the estimated 78 million visits in 2021, 47 million came from tourists not local to the area

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-20-24

Our 4th Annual Heavy Metal Haul Out Fundraiser for the Delaware Valley Humane Society, with Waste Recovery Enterprises was successful for the month of May, raising a substantial amount for the shelter, Director Erin Insinga explains:

(Erin Insinga 6-20-24)

Insinga said that the plan is to have the Heavy Metal Haul out Twice a Year, people can haul out their scrap metal again in September. A fundraising Barbecue will be held at the Delaware Valley Humane Society site Friday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

In the midst of tick season, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced her push for federal funding to research tick-borne illnesses:

(Gillibrand 6-20-24)

Ticks are widespread throughout Upstate New York and has been a significant problem at Fort Drumm near Watertown, Gillibrand said that the issue has not been well-studied, and money would go to the CDC & The NIH among others to ramp up research on Lyme Disease.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 39 year old Teriann Connolly of Binghamton on a drug charge. On September 5th, 2023, Deputies were dispatched to assist the Delaware County Probation Department, after a search, Connolly was found to be in possession of Fentanyl. At the conclusion of their investigation, Connolly was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, she was processed and released on an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Davenport Court at a later date.

22 year old Devon Kupris of Kortright was convicted of Driving While Intoxicated in the Town of Kortright Local Criminal Court Tuesday, he pleaded guilty from an incident in January when a Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to help a vehicle on the roadside, Kupris was exhibiting signs of impairment, he pleaded guilty to DWI & Was sentenced to a 1-year conditional discharge and ordered that he install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owns or operates, his license was revoked for 6 months and he was ordered to attend a victim impact panel and an Impaired Drivers’ Program, If he fails to comply, he could be re-sentenced to 1 year in jail.

The Village of Bainbridge announced that they will have crews milling on Walnut Street from Pearl Street East to the ball fields, starting this morning. The milling is expected to take up to 7 hours, Traffic on Walnut street will be restricted.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 6-12-24

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the Town of North Norwich Monday that resulted in the arrest of four individuals for drug charges. Members of the Chenango County Sheriff's Office executed a no-knock search warrant at 113 Memory Lane in the Town of North Norwich, Deputies and Detectives entered the residence and located Matthew Mason, Christopher Fuller, Samantha Savianeso, and Thomas Knickerbocker, they located Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, Heroin, packaging materials, scales, hundreds of dollars in cash, and other materials indicative of the sale and distribution of drugs. Mason, Fuller, Savianeso, and Knickerbocker were transported to the Chenango County Sheriff's Office, Mason was processed and arraigned in Centralized Arraignment where he was held at the Chenango County Correctional Facility with no bail until he can be seen in Chenango County Court, the rest were released in their own recognizance.

Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar welcomed K9 Cash and his partner and handler, Deputy Chuck Louden today, they recently completed an extensive, 10-week, 450-hour K9 handler training at Cedar Creek Kennels in Illinois and have concluded their final training and state certification in our community this week. Later this month, Broome County residents will begin to see Cash be out in the community as a member of the Road Patrol division. K9 Cash is a male German Shepherd just under two years old. He and his partner Deputy Louden have been trained and certified in tracking, handler protection, locating individuals, explosives detection and other skills needed for law enforcement K9 units

The Chenango County Historical Society will again participate in the semi-annual state-wide festivities known as Path Through History weekend on June 16. As part of the celebration, the museum is hosting special open hours from 10 am. to 4 pm. that day. Historical Society Executive director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 6-12-24)

During Path Through History weekends, special events of local historical significance, For more information, go to ChenangoHistorical.org or call (607) 334-9227.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 6-12-24

28 year old Marissa Peck of Andes appeared in Delaware County Court Monday and has been sentenced for her conviction of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Peck pleaded guilty, She admitted to possessing a narcotic drug with the intention of selling it in the Village of Delhi on March 13, 2024. Judge Hubbard sentenced her to 5 years in state prison, to be followed by 2 years of post-release supervision.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-14-24

State Police at Sidney arrested 61 year old Duane Gardepe of Masonville, after a domestic dispute at a residence on Axtell Road in the town of Masonville. Gardepe has been charged with 1st degree Rape, Criminal Sexual Act, Kidnapping, Sexual Abuse, Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Unlawful Imprisonment, Menacing & Criminal Mischief, An investigation revealed that Gardepe menaced and threatened a victim, prevented the victim from leaving, calling 911 and forced unwanted sexual acts. Gardepe was processed and arraigned, he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail without bail.

The Butternut Valley Alliance has announced a partnership with SFCU, to take the necessary measures to open a full-service branch in Morris. This development comes after the "Save Our Bank" task force was formed, as Community Bank NA had announced plan last year to close their Morris Branch. Butternut Valley Alliance Vice Chair Maggie Brenner explains:

(Maggie Brenner 5-14-24)

Brenner said that the BDD process can take 6 to 12 months, meanwhile, SFCU plans to begin offering limited services with a representative assisting businesses and residents in opening accounts, The Alliance will try to find out Community Bank's plans with their former office in Morris, to see if it can become a new branch for SFCU.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 5-14-24

Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested a Kirkwood man for 3 gas station robberies. The 1st Robbery was on May 9th, at the Speedway gas station on Route 7 in Sanitaria Springs, where a male with a black shirt wrapped around his hand, implying he had a weapon, and grabbed a cash register & fled the scene in a gray Ford F-150 pickup truck. The 2nd Robbery was at the Mirabito gas station on Old Route 17 in Windsor, Sheriff Deputies identified the suspect vehicle and potential suspect as 46 year old Clint Loomis of Kirkwood. On Friday, a 3rd Robbery occurred at a gas station in Greene, Loomis was located on Route 12 in the Town of Chenango, A Deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Loomis resisted, a Taser was deployed but Loomis drove off, Tire deflation devices were set up, Loomis damaged his tires but continued to flee, eventually leaving the vehicle on foot, he was apprehended. Loomis was wanted on a warrant, & was charged with Robbery, Obstructing governmental administration, reckless endangerment, unlawfully fleeing Police, Resisting arrest & 26 traffic violations, he was being held for arraignment.

Long time Sidney businessman Bill Thomas passed away Friday at the age of 70, Thomas & his wife Linda ran Sidney Auto Body until 2018, Bill also served on the Masonville Town Board & The Sidney School District Board of Education, calling hours will be Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on at C.H. Landers Funeral Home, 21 Main Street Sidney, A memorial service will be held at the Sidney United Methodist Church, 12 Liberty Street in Sidney, at 11am on Friday.

Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 18 year old Steven Cook of Vestal for Attempted Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Cook is accused of soliciting pornographic images from a 12-year-old girl. Deputies responded last week to a 911 report from a 12-year-old victim in the Town of Union, who informed investigators that she had been talking and exchanging explicit messages with Cook where he allegedly attempted to initiate sexual contact with the minor and attempting to solicit pornographic images from her. During the execution of a search warrant, Cook was uncooperative with investigators, but was eventually taken into custody, Cook remains in the custody of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office awaiting arraignment.

Broome County District Attorney's office announced that 38 year old Andrew Bethune of Binghamton was sentenced in Broome County Court to 4 years in New York State Prison, followed by 3 years of post-release supervision for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. On January 25, 2023, authorities conducted a search of Bethune's apartment located at 111 Oak Street, Apartment 4 in Binghamton, they seized cocaine, fentanyl & methamphetamines, plus packaging materials, a digital scale and $5,481 in cash from suspected drug sales.

National Baseball Hall of Fame Chairman of the Board Jane Forbes Clark announced that a Hank Aaron statue will be unveiled at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown on May 23. The bronze representation of Aaron will be installed on the first floor of the Museum. Aaron was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1982 following a 23-year big league career with the Braves and Brewers, Aaron launched his 715th career home run 50 years ago today. Aaron’s Hall of Fame plaque made a rare appearance outside of the Hall of Fame Plaque Gallery when it traveled to Atlanta for today’s event, the plaque will also be featured at Truist Park today for fans to view at this evening’s Braves-Mets game.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 4-8-24

A raccoon tested positive for rabies in the town of Meredith. This is the first laboratory confirmed positive case of rabies in Delaware County in 2024. A rabid raccoon entered a cow barn in the town of Meredith and attacked and bit a cow. The raccoon was sent for testing to the State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory. The cow that was attacked and bitten has been euthanized. There were no human exposures, and no other domestic animals were exposed to the rabid raccoon. For more information call 607-832-5200 or visit our website at delawarecountypublichealth.com

The Delaware County Chamber will Host their annual Legislative Forum, on Monday, April 22, starting at 9:30 am, in the Okun Theatre at SUNY Delhi. Confirmed panel speakers include State Senator Peter Oberacker, Assembly representatives Joe Angelino, Brian Maher, and Chris Tague. The event is free and advance registration is encouraged, at DelawareCounty.org.

The State Police are working alongside other state agencies in preparation for the solar eclipse at approximately 3:00 PM today, with a narrow path of totality across Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown, Lake Placid and Plattsburgh. Motorists who must travel in the areas impacted by the eclipse are asked to allow for extra travel time due to expected large volumes of traffic.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 3-13-24

36 year old Justin Baker of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Monday and pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Baker admitted that he had possessed methamphetamine with the intent to sell in the Village of Sidney. Judge Hubbard ordered the Delaware County Probation Department to conduct a pre-sentencing report, it is expected that Baker will be sentenced to 2 1/2 years in state prison to be followed by one year of post release supervision, he will likely be enrolled in the Lakeview Rehabilitation Program as part of his state prison sentence.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 53 year old Donald Lane of Portlandville for being in violation of the State Sex Offender Registry. Lane was charged with Sex Offender Failure to Update Change of Address, following an investigation that revealed that Lane relocated away from his residence in excess of the 10 day grace period required for sex offenders to update an address change. Lane was located by the Canajoharie Police Department and was turned over to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on an unrelated matter. On March 11th 2024, the defendant was formally charged with the above charges and issued an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Middlefield Court at a later date.

Our Krazy 8 Redemption LLC of South New Berlin will be helping with the "March Madness" fundraiser for the Delaware Valley Humane Society this Saturday in Sidney, Humane Society Director Erin Insinga comments:

(Erin Insinga 3-13-24)

Christina Dewey of Our Krazy 8 Redemption told WCDO News that they are happy to help out this & other shelters in the region:

(Christina Dewey 3-13-24)

The fundraiser will run through the end of March, more information is available on the Delaware Valley Humane Society or Krazy 8 Redemption center Facebook pages.

Chenango County Health Department reported that a raccoon located in the Town of Preston tested positive for Rabies by the State's Wadsworth Laboratory. Residents are reminded to not pick up or handle any stray or wild animal & to contact the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office or the Chenango County Health Department to report animals which are behaving strangely or aggressively. Report any animal bites and/or scratches to your health care provider or the Chenango County Health Department. More information about rabies is available by calling the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1673

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 28 year old Kenneth Dillman of Stamford for Aggravated Unlicensed Operator of a Motor Vehicle and Operation of a Motor Vehicle with an Ignition Interlock device following a traffic stop in the Town of Harpersfield. Deputies observed Dillmann operating a motor vehicle, they knew that Dillmann had 22 suspensions on his revoked license, A traffic stop was conducted, Dillmann was charged & was issued traffic tickets and Appearance Tickets for Town of Harpersfield Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 3-13-24

State Comptroller’s Office announced that 2 Otsego County area businessmen have been indicted for a $1 million Medicaid transportation fraud scheme. 46-year-old Philip Mtui and 47-year-old Mbaga Kaiza were partners in Phinaliz Communications, they allegedly sought and received payments for rides that did not actually happen and billed multiple times for rides that did occur. This resulted in $1 million being stolen from Medicaid, they were charged with 1st Degree Grand Larceny & they face court action on May 6.

The Bainbridge Initiative has invited members of the Chenango County Sheriff's Office to Bainbridge, for a Question & Answer Sessions regarding topics such as substance abuse, Homelessness & Mental Health, spokesperson Carole Kanzer explains:

(Carole Kanzer 3-13-24)

The Session will begin at 5:30 PM, at the Bainbridge Town Hall, more information is available at the Bainbridge Intitative Facebook Page or at 967-5449.

The next American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today in Cooperstown, from 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., at St. Mary's at 31 Elm Street, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

P.M. NEWS Tuesday 1-30-24

Jerell Thompson of Binghamton, pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon. On December 23, 2023, Thompson was found to be in possession of a loaded Handgun after a traffic stop by State Police. Thompson will be sentenced to 5 years in New York State Prison and 5 years post-release supervision. Sentencing is scheduled for April 24, 2024, in Broome County Court.

41 year old Amy Kille of Walton appeared in Delaware County Court Monday & pleaded guilty to 1 count of Driving While Intoxicated & 1 count of Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle. On August 30, 2023 Kille was pulled over after driving erratically in the Village of Walton, her license had been revoked for a prior DWI, her BAC was .25%, more than 3 times the legal limit, sentencing will be on March 25, Kille will be sentenced to a 5-year term of probation supervision, she will be required to successfully complete the Delaware County Adult Treatment Court Program, her license will be revoked, and she will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle she owns or operates.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that 34 year-old Krystynne Bliss of Sidney is facing a charge of Promoting Prison Contraband, On January 19th, members of the Delaware County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigation Division received information that Bliss entered the Correctional Facility while in possession of with Schedule 3 controlled substance, Bliss was arraigned at the Delaware County Central Arraignment court and returned to the corrections facility on an earlier unrelated charge.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies announced that Reid Brignac returns as manager, along with Pitching Coach AJ Sager, Hitting Coach Darin Everson, and Bench Coach Mariano Duncan. Juan Loyo joins the staff as the team's development coach. The Rumble Ponies made it to the Eastern League Championship Series in 2023, they open the 2024 at Mirabito Stadium against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats on Friday, April 5. Season Tickets and flex booklets are currently on sale at Mirabito Stadium, on the phone at (607)-722-FUNN, or on our website www.bingrp.com.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-30-24

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies responded last Thursday to a domestic incident in progress in the Town of Meredith. Upon arrival one of the individuals involved was identified as 32- year-old Edward Reed of Meredith, a tinfoil containing a white powdery substance along with a scale was discovered within the residence, Deputies charged Reed with criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of drug paraphernalia, . Reed was released on appearance tickets returnable at a later date to the Meredith Town Court.

The Guthrie Clinic will take over operations at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton Thursday. The take over includes all of Lourdes facilities, including the new clinic at the Oakdale Commons, a new name for the facility will be announced Thursday.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-13-23

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 35 year old Devyn Wilcox of Harpursville on 27 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child & 1 count of disorderly conduct on Thursday. Deputies responded Thursday afternoon to the Harpursville School District Bus, Wilcox is accused of entering the stopped bus and began yelling, screaming, swearing and threatening juveniles, according to witnesses & video. There were 30 students from elementary school to high school ages on the bus. Wilcox was taken into custody without incident at his residence, he was processed at the Broome County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility and released on appearance tickets for the Town of Colesville Court at a later date. The investigation is continuing.

The 5th Annual Matthews Auto Walkathon on October 7th was a huge success, despite torrential rain, and a record breaking $129,798 was raised for 10 local kid’s charities. Please see attached for the final tally. Thank you to everyone who participated and congratulations to our charities! We will be reaching out to arrange a time for check presentations in the coming days. Thank you to everyone for supporting this great event!

The Out Of The Woodwork Players present "YOU KNOW THE OLD SLAYING", Today & Tomorrow at 7:00 PM & Sunday at 2:00 PM at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater, 15 North Main Street in Bainbridge. A Photography exhibit will be in the Gallery, Doors open at 6:00 PM tonight & Saturday.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-13-23

The Amphenol Corporation will have a recruitment event at SUNY Oneonta Morris Conference Center Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for on-site applications & on the spot interviews. A list of Job openings can be found online at amphenol/sidneyny.jobs.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 38 year old Amber Cooke of Walton following an investigation of a domestic dispute in the Town of Delhi. On September 22nd, Deputies responded to a Domestic in Progress, Cooke allegedly struck a child in the face, causing substantial pain and the child to bleed. Cooke was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 3rd degree Assault, she was processed & was released with an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Delhi Court on a later date to answer the charges.

Delaware County Public Health will hold a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats and ferrets TODAY from 5:30PM to 7:30PM, at DPW Garage 1 Village Street in Deposit. For questions or more information call 607-832-5200 or see our website www.delawarecountypublichealth.com