WCDO Radio News

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 45 year old Derek Jordan of Milford, 45 year old Keith Blush of Milford & 30 year old Ashley Goble of Milford, on a variety of drug & weapons charges, following an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and the Otsego County Probation Department. On October 9th, Otsego County probation Officers & Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Derek Jordan, who was taken in to custody on traffic offenses, During a search of Jordan’s residence, Blush and Goble were inside the residence, they were wanted by State Police and the New Hartford Police Departments on warrants. Officers observed a firearm, drugs and drug paraphernalia, Jordan and Blush were processed and turned over to the Otsego County Correctional Facility for arraignment, Goble was issued an Appearance Ticket to the Town of Milford Court, and she was turned over to New Hartford Police Officers. The investigation is on-going and additional charges are pending.

The New York State Department of Health today released a new report showing a continued decline in tobacco use among high school students across the state. The report, shows that 1 in 6 Youth Still Use Tobacco, the lowest since tracking began in 2000. Cigarette smoking remains low, with just over 2% of students reporting current use, E-cigarette use has declined sharply to about 13%, however, Nicotine pouch use is rising, doubling from 1.5% to 3.0% since 2022.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-23-25

Governor Kathy Hochul & State Police Superintendent Steven James honored 238 new State Troopers as they graduated Wednesday from the 217th session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy. The ceremony was held at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. Today’s graduation increases the State Police ranks to approximately 5,110 sworn members, about 60 of the new troopers were assigned to Troop C in Sidney.

On October 16 at 10:48 p.m., Otsego County requested Forest Ranger assistance in the search for a hunter reported missing by his spouse. The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office, Otsego County Emergency Services, Garratsville Fire Department, Laurens Fire Department, New York State Police, and New York State Park Police and staff all joined the search efforts in Gilbert Lake State Park. Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputy’s located the 67-year-old from Remsen deceased in a tree stand. Rangers used a rope system to help extricate the subject and turned them over to the county coroner, the cause of death has not been released.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-8-25

On July 5, 2025, members of the Chenango County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to State Highway 80 in the Town of Sherburne for an unresponsive male on the shoulder of the road. Deputies located a deceased male who was later identified as 59-year-old Jeffery Maxson of Sherburne, who was walking on State Highway 80 Friday evening when he was struck by a vehicle that did not stop. The Detectives Division identified the vehicle with nearby security cameras, it was located and seized for further investigation. The investigation is still ongoing and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Chenango County Sheriff's Office at 607-334-2000.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Detail in Chenango and Otsego Counties. All of the businesses except one were in compliance, which was Ye Olde Shanty on South Canal Street in Oxford, where a 73-year-old employee was issued an appearance ticket for Prohibited Sale of Alcohol to a Person Under 21. 10 other businesses were in compliance in Norwich, Oxford, Greene, Smithville Flats and Morris.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 27 year old Emily Tabler of Bronx, for Driving While Intoxicated, Operating a Motor Vehicle with a BAC of .08% or higher, Failure to keep right & Driving on the shoulder, following a property damage accident in the Town of Exeter. Deputies on patrol and came upon a motor vehicle accident on State Highway 28. Tabler was found to be intoxicated & was processed and released on an Appearance Tickets for Exeter Town Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 7-7-25

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal hit and run car vs. pedestrian accident on July 4, at about 8:45 pm on State Highway 80 near the Rogers Conservation Center in the Town of Sherburne. The Sheriff’s Office announced this morning that the vehicle and driver have been located. The investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with any further information please contact the Chenango County Sheriff's Office at 607-334-2000.

The Future for Oneonta Foundation is partnering with Otsego 2000 to develop an operations plan for an Oneonta Farmers’ Market, based on the model that has been working successfully year round in Cooperstown for more than 3 decades, Ellen Pope of Otsego 2000 explains:

(Ellen Pope 5-1-25)

Pope said that are looking for an indoor location close to the Oneonta downtown shopping district, Further details about the building project and market development should be announced in the coming months.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-24-25

A Delaware County Grand Jury returned a 2-count indictment against 36 year old Benjamin Combes of New Lisbon, for Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, & Predator Sexual Assault against a child. Combes is accused of engaging in acts of sexual conduct against a child less than 13 years old, he faces up to 25 years in prison and 20 years of post-release supervision, Combes is currently incarcerated in Otsego County for unrelated charges. He is scheduled to be transported to Delaware County Court for arraignment on January 28th. .

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office was made aware of a scam that has been circulating, where someone claims to be working with the Sheriff’s Office and asking for money for missing court dates. Sheriff Cutting announced that members of the Sheriff’s Office do not call asking for money regarding criminal matters, and anyone with further questions can call the Sheriff's Office at 607-334-2000

The Oneonta Rotary & the Otsego County Department of Health announced the installation of 5 new Narcan Boxes throughout the county as part of its ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic. The vending machines are located in Cherry Valley, Edmeston, Cooperstown, and Richfield Springs, the Oneonta Narcan Box is located at the Elm Park Methodist Church.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-18-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 37 year old Tyrell Adams of Pittsfield on a number of charged following an investigation. Adams was charged with 3 counts of Sexual Abuse, Forcible Touching, 3 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Animal Cruelty & Criminal Contempt. Investigation revealed that over the course of several years, Adams allegedly subjected minors to persistent sexual abuse, Additionally he is accused of killing a family pet near children. Otsego County Family Court issued an order of protection against Adams prohibiting contact with multiple protected parties, he then sent Facebook messages to one of the protected parties. Adams was sent to the Otsego County Correctional Facility for arraignment.

Another American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held Saturday in Oneonta, as blood is needed following the recent hurricanes in the Southern States. The drive will be held Saturday from 10 am. - 3 pm., at the Southside Mall Oneonta YMCA, Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

A.M. NEWS Friday 10-18-24

Otsego County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 29 year old Eugene Buzie of Unadilla for multiple sex offense charges following an investigation. The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office announces the addition of charges in to the investigation involving Buzie, On July 19th he was arrested by investigators for multiple sex offense related charges. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the defendant did request, receive and possess a sexual performance by a child through online sources & was charged additionally with Possession of Sexual Performance by a child, Buzie was still incarcerated on the previous charges, he was produced from the Oneida County Correctional Facility to be processed on the new charge, at the Otsego County Correctional Facility and he was returned to the Oneida County Correctional Facility with an Appearance Ticket returnable to the Town of Unadilla Court at a later date.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for 40 year old Donald Shurock Jr. A Chenango County Deputy was called to a State Highway 26 in Pitcher Thursday for a suspicious vehicle complaint, the Deputy identified one of the occupants as Shurock, who has active warrants for his arrest. Shurock resisted arrest and fled the scene on foot, causing the Deputy to sustain physical injury. The Deputy was transported to a local hospital and was treated & released. Shurock is described as a white male, approximately 5’8” tall, weighing approximately 165 pounds, balding with short brown hair, brown beard and mustache, wearing a black winter hat, blue/gray Carhartt jacket, jeans, and boots. In addition to the active arrest warrants, Shurock is now wanted on charges of Assault on a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest. If anyone has information, contact the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office at (607) 334-2000.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-5-24

56 year old Paul Geer of Hancock was arraigned on a federal indictment charging him with 3 counts of coercing and enticing 3 separate children to travel across state lines to engage in unlawful sexual activity, Geer was a teacher at the Family Foundation School in Hancock, he imposed various disciplinary sanctions on students which were equivalent to torture and forcing children to perform forced physical labor, in 1994, 2000, and 2001, Geer used his position of authority to coerce 3 students to travel with him, to Maine, Pennsylvania, and Toronto, Canada, with intent to engage in sexual activity with the minors. The 3 counts of coercion and enticement each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of 5 years. The 3 counts of transporting children across state lines carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years, he will also be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 39 year old Branden Barker of Edmeston following an investigation of a motor vehicle accident. Barker was charged with DWI, Driving w/.08% or more, Driving While Ability Impaired by Alcohol, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident & Failure to Keep Right, he was located in the vicinity of the accident in Edmeston after fleeing the scene, he'll face court action shortly.

The Chenango County Sheriff's Office is currently asking for the public's assistance on locating 22 year old Kaleb Weinmuller, who is wanted by the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office for the charge of 2nd degree Rape. Weinmuller was last known to be in the Otsego County area. he is described as a white male, 6'3" tall about 170 pounds, he was last known to be living on State highway 23 in Morris. Anyone with information on the location of Weinmuller should call (607) 337-1911 or (607) 334-2000 ext. 1

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 29 year old Adonis Morel of Harrisburg Pennsylvania following a fraud investigation in the Town of Oneonta. Morel was charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property & Criminal Impersonation, he was released on an appearance ticket for the Town of Oneonta Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-17-23

Oneonta Police Department responded On the morning of Saturday, January 14th, at 8:58 a.m., for a report of a person down in Neahwa Park. Officers responded with members of the Oneonta Fire Department and located a 35-year-old male who was unresponsive and later declared deceased by Otsego County Coroner Terry Knapp. The male was identified, and his family notified of his passing. A death investigation was completed by the Oneonta Police Detective division and revealed no indication of foul play. Oneonta Police are not releasing the name of the deceased.

State Police arrested 24 year old Patrick Combs of Roxbury for Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Cannabis and Operating a Motor Vehicle while Under the Influence of Drugs. State Police were called to State Highway 30 in the town of Roxbury Sunday for a report of a larceny by a store employee. A preliminary investigation determined that Combs stole $2000 from a safe and then left the store in his vehicle. Troopers located Combs and when approaching his vehicle could smell an odor of cannabis. While conducting an inventory of the vehicle, Troopers located a large amount of cannabis, a weight scale, drug paraphernalia and alcohol. The investigation is ongoing.

The Village of Sidney Police Department arrested 36 year old Thomas Wright of Oxford and 36 year old Troy Dibble of Oxford, on Burglary & Grand Larceny Charges, following an investigation of a burglary of a house on Patterson Street in Sidney. A car trailer, 2 ATV's & a number of Tools were taken from the property, it was located in the town of Oxford and the 2 men were arrested. Wright was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court, he was released on $2000 bail to appear back in court at a later date, Dibble was arraigned in Village of Sidney Court, he was released on his own recognizance to appear back in court at a later date. Sidney Police Department were assisted by the Chenango County Sheriff's Office & State Police.

The State Department of Agriculture & Markets announced that raw milk from the Nickol Dairy Farm in Otsego County was found to be contaminated with Listeria following an inspection. Department officials warned customers not to drink the unpasteurized raw milk, until more testing is complete. Customers who purchased milk from the farm should throw it away & are advised to contact the farm owners at 607-386-3951.

The Greater Oneonta Historical Society, the City of Oneonta and Otsego Now, will unveil a new historical marker for the D&H Roundhouse on Roundhouse Road in Oneonta, today at 12:00 Noon. The marker registers and documents one of the largest roundhouses in the nation, the public ceremony will be at the corner of Roundhouse Road and Fonda Avenue in Oneonta on the property of A Treffeisen & Son LLC.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-14-22

Otsego County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the Dollar General on State Highway 28 in Hartwick for the report of a vehicle running into a utility pole, where the driver fled the scene on foot. Deputies and Cooperstown Police located the driver , 40 year old Kevin Clapper of Fly Creek a short distance from the scene. Clapper was arrested and charged with Aggravated DWI; Leaving the scene of a property damage accident & Consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle among several other charges, He was issued appearance tickets to the Town of Hartwick Court at a later date.

Greater Oneonta Historical Society & Otsego 2000 are sponsoring a Walking Tour of downtown Oneonta on Saturday. The tour will focus on opportunities and threats in the Oneonta Downtown Historic District, which the State Preservation League has named to its bi-annual “7 To Save” list. The tour will leave from the Oneonta History Center at 183 Main Street at 3:00 PM and is by donation. In case of inclement weather, the tour will be held on Sunday.

The Covered Bridge Farm Market Fall Festival will be held on Sunday in Unadilla, Organizer Luke Johnson explains:

(Luke Johnson 9-23-22)

Johnson said that last year's event drew about 2000 people to the festival on Covered Bridge Road in Unadilla.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 50 year old Ashraf Moussa of Schuyler Lake on 9 counts of possession of a forged instrument. Moussa is accused of utilizing forged documents and licenses to buy and sell vehicles for profit. A search warrant was executed at the defendant's residence where numerous other forged documents were located and seized, he is being held in the Otsego County Correctional Facility pending Court action.

A.M. NEWS Friday 9-23-22

The Community Cultural Center in Sidney will host the 1st of a series of Comedy Nights this Saturday night, as well as a puppet show Sunday Afternoon, spokesperson Teri Schunk explains:

(Teri Schunk 9-21-22)

Tickets for both events can be located online at cccsidneyart.booktix.com, by calling 607-604-4584 or at the door before the show Saturday night.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 41 year old Dezarae Yother of Morris after an investigation into a disabled vehicle in Pittsfield. Yother allegedly forged and attempted to use a stolen check to pay for services in Morris. Yother faces charges of forgery, Possession of a Forged Instrument, Possession of Stolen Property in Morris, and Inadequate Exhaust, Unsafe Tire, Improper Plates, Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Uninspected Motor Vehicle, and Operating without Insurance in Pittsfield.

The State Health Department reports that the decline in COVID 19 cases is continuing. Statewide 7-Day Average positivity rate is Lowest Since mid -April at 5.4%, Statewide Hospitalizations were below 2000 to 1,938, down from a recent peak of 2724 in Mid May. there were 38 deaths reported over the weekend in Hospitals & nursing homes.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 6-15-22

35 year old Tadd Sherwood of Oneonta has been arrested after he allegedly pointed a gun at a victim during a dispute and fired a shot in the victim’s direction. Sherwood was charged with criminal possession of a loaded firearm, menacing, and criminal possession of a weapon, Sherwood is a convicted felon & is not legally allowed to possess weapons, he is being held in the Otsego County Jail pending future court action.

Former long time WDLA co-owner Amos Finch of Walton passed away Tuesday, following a lengthy illness. Finch was born in Sidney Center, In 1975 he purchased WDLA, and later added stations in Deposit & Delhi, before selling them in 2000. Private arrangements were conducted by CH Landers Funeral Chapel of Sidney, and he will be buried at Highland Cemetery in Sidney Center in the spring. Condolences may be shared online at landersfh.com and memorials may be sent to Helios Care, 297 River Street Service Road, in Oneonta.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 1-14-22

State Police Bureau arrested 50 year old Kenneth Drumm of Windsor for the felony of Sexual Abuse. Drumm was charged after an investigation revealed he had inappropriate contact with a child younger than the age of 13. Drumm was arrested and processed and was turned over to Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing. A full stay away order was issued to the victim.

Otsego County Department of Health is continuing to see the highest surge in COVID-19 cases since the pandemic started almost two years ago. It is critical that everyone continues with social distancing, wearing masks and getting vaccinated. If you test positive for COVID, isolate for at least 5 days and notify your close contacts. If you are unvaccinated or have not received a booster dose and have been in close contact with someone who is positive you should quarantine for at least 5 days. Contact tracing will continue in certain settings such as schools, daycares, hospitals, nursing homes and other congregate settings. The Otsego County Health Department reports 183 New cases Thursday with 8 hospitalizations, active cases will no longer be reported, as it is not possible to get an accurate number with the current limited contact tracing and case investigation. More information is available at the Health Department website at otsegocounty.com.

The State Department of Health today announced that New York State's youth smoking rate has reached an all-time low. As of 2020, less than 3% of high school students smoke cigarettes, down from 27.1% in 2000.  The Youth Tobacco Survey found that youth tobacco use was down across all tobacco product categories, including a drop in e-cigarette use for the first time.  New Yorkers of all ages can contact the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NYQUITS or visit nysmokefree.com.

CDO Workforce is partnering with Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Commerce Chenango, and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce for the 2nd Virtual Career Fair, today, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The free event will allow local companies and job seekers to connect one-on-one for immediate placement opportunities, especially in industries that are in high demand including Healthcare, Hospitality, Tourism, & Manufacturing, more information is available at 432-4800.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-4-21

54 year old Casey Callahan accepted a plea deal in Otsego County Court Monday, in connection the murder of his wife Elizabeth in Pennsylvania in 2000, by running her over with his truck. Callahan was due for a retrial, he was previously convicted of murdering his wife, the original guilty plea was overturned last year, By accepting the plea, Callahan avoids a 2nd trial. The case was tried in Otsego County originally as prosecutors said that Callahan hatched the scheme to murder his wife while living in the County, he pleaded guilty to manslaughter and he will serve a jail sentence of 4 to 12 years.

37 year Shelly Ann Young of Laurens pleaded guilty in Otsego County Court Monday to performing sexual acts a 15 year old Boy. Young was charged with 2nd-degree rape as well as dissemination of indecent material to a minor.

The Otsego County Department of Health will be holding a vaccination clinic at the Meadows Office Complex in Cooperstown on Tuesday March 16th, the registration link is on the Otsego County Department of Health Website.  Registration is mandatory & the vaccine is available to anyone currently listed as eligible according to State Guidelines.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 3-12-21

Sidney Village Police responded to a domestic disturbance Thursday,  officers arrested 43 year old Anthony Fiorillo of Sidney for Criminal contempt, Menacing & Harassment.   Fiorillo was arraigned in the Village of Sidney Court & was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $1000 cash bail or $2000 bond.

Otsego Express announced that their Bus Route #1 will not be running again today.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-7-20

Governor Cuomo held a COVID briefing today, with Dr. Anthony Fauci of the CDC, the governor recapped the state strategy as more small gatherings are expected over the holidays, which is contributing to 70% of the new cases currently:

(Cuomo 12-7-20)

Dr. Fauci said that if people let their guard down & don't follow the CDC guidelines, the surge could hit badly in the New Year:

(Dr. Anthony Fauci 12-7-20)

The state reported that 152000 tests were performed Sunday, with 7302 positive  tests, or about 4.8% of all tested, over 4600 are hospitalized, 872 are in ICU beds & 477 are on ventilators, and another 80 died from the virus Sunday.

A traffic stop in the town of Norwich led the to the arrest of a man wanted for stealing a camper from Otsego County in October then abandoning it in Binghamton.   State Police arrested 46 year old Clint Payne of Beaver, Pennsylvania, for Grand Larceny, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.  On November 20th,  Payne came to the State Police Norwich barracks inquiring about another matter, when he drove off a trooper observed that Payne’s vehicle had multiple vehicle and traffic infractions, he was stopped & the trooper discovered that Payne was wanted for Grand Larceny in Otsego County & he was accused of possessing of methamphetamine.  Payne was processed in Oneonta, the Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing & Broome County Central Arraignment and Processing.

Village of Sidney Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Committee has had 16 community members appointed, with Village residents, business owners, Religious leaders, Village Board members, Members of the Police Department, Delaware County Public Defender's office  and Delaware County District Attorney John Hubbard.  The committee has reviewed how the Sidney Police Department operates and with public input determines what changes, if any, need to be made.  Sidney mayor Andy Matviak told WCDO News about how they will get public input:

(Andy Matviak 12-7-20)

After the public input in the months of December and January, they will draft a reform and reinvention plan that will be shared with the public, in February the committee will make any needed changes & submit the revised plan to the Village board for approval. In March the approved plan will be submitted to New York State.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-7-20

Attorneys for the Claudia Tenney and Anthony Brindisi campaigns filed new motions in State Supreme Court in Oswego regarding the ongoing ballot counts in the 22nd congressional district race.   55 recently-discovered Chenango County early voting ballots & about 2000 other disputed ballots will be ruled on by Justice Scott Delconte in State Supreme Court in Oswego this afternoon.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they had 14 COVID cases reported Saturday & 22 new cases Sunday.  Otsego County is up to 1418 total confirmed cases, 109 are active cases, 9 are hospitalized, and there have been 8 deaths since March.  Otsego County Department of Health is announcing a potential COVID 19 exposure at the American Legion 60 Main Street Cooperstown, from November 25th through November 30th, should monitor themselves for symptoms and get tested.

The State Division of Consumer Protection reminds consumers that New York’s gender price equity law protects shoppers this holiday season.  This new law eliminates the “Pink Tax,” otherwise known as the practice of charging different prices for "substantially similar" consumer goods or services that are marketed to different genders, now, similar products must have the same price.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-2-20

The controversy continues in the 22nd Congressional District, which showed that Republican Claudia Tenney had regained a slight lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi.  State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte ordered each of the 8 counties in the congressional district to submit a final, unofficial count to the court by Monday, however 55 more uncounted absentee ballots were discovered in Chenango County, the next court action is expected next Monday December 7th, when Judge DelConte is expected to rule on 2000 disputed ballots & the new Chenango Ballots.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 11 new COVID 19 cases reported Tuesday, they now have had a total of 1325 cases,  there are 85 active cases with 8 hospitalized, there have been 8 deaths with 765 cases linked to SUNY Oneonta and 71 confirmed cases linked to Hartwick College.  Otsego County has had 292 positive tests in the last month; only 27 of the cases came from the 2 college campuses.

The Latest vote count in the 22nd Congressional District has now swung back to give Republican Claudia Tenney the lead over incumbent Democrat Anthony Brindisi.  All of the Counties have to certify their vote totals, State Supreme Court Justice Scott DelConte ordered each of the 8 counties in the congressional district to submit a final, unofficial count to the court by yesterday afternoon, the next court action is expected next Monday December 7th, when Judge DelConte is expected to rule on

2000 disputed ballots.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 12-1-20

Governor Cuomo today announced New York's annual statewide holiday donation drive to benefit families in need across the state begins today.  Donations of new unwrapped toys, coats and school supplies are being sought to assist community-based organizations during the holiday giving season.  The Office of General Services has set up drop-off locations across the state through Wednesday, December 16.  COVID-19 protocols will be in place to ensure the safety of those dropping off donations including masks, social distancing, and access to hand sanitizer.  The drop-off locations include the Binghamton State Office Building, 44 Hawley St., Binghamton & the Homer Folks Facility, 28 Hill Street Oneonta.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 19 new COVID cases Monday, bringing them to 1314 total confirmed cases since March.  There are 89 active cases, 4 are hospitalized there have been 8 deaths, 764 cases are linked to SUNY Oneonta & 71 to Hartwick College.

A State Appeals Court decided last week that the evidence used against Casey Callahan in Otsego County Court in 2016 was not overwhelming and they have reversed his murder conviction & a new Trial will be scheduled.  The Otsego County District Attorney's Office argued that Casey Callahan intentionally ran over his wife Elizabeth Callahan on January 19th, 2000 while in the parking lot off of Interstate 86 near the New York Pennsylvania border, he was tried in Otsego County Court as he was accused of concocting the plan in Otsego County.

The Arc Otsego presented Golden Artist Colors as 1 of the statewide recipients of The Arc New York 2020 Employer Recognition Award. Golden Artist Colors produces paints used by artists worldwide, there are 2 individuals who have intellectual or other developmental disabilities currently employed, and Golden Artists have been employing individuals with disabilities from The Arc Otsego since 2000.

Development Chenango Corporation has assisted County Businesses recently to make renovations or expand their operation, & they have announced a new loan opportunity for Chenango County businesses needing financial help due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Commerce Chenango CEO & President Kerri Green explain:

(Kerri Green 7-31-20)

Green said that more information is available by calling her at 334-1404 or by email: kgreen@chenangony.org.

Otsego County Department of Health announced that they will have a testing site today from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, at the Exeter Town Barn on State Highway 28 in Schuyler Lake.  The testing site is limited to people who are NOT sick, but want to be tested for the Coronavirus, The testing will be by a nasal swab.  The testing site will be drive up only, individuals are required to stay in their vehicle & wear a face mask.  Pre-Registration is required at 547-4279.

The Raymond Corporation of Greene is producing 3D printed face shields for area Health Care professionals, first responders, who had been experiencing difficulty in getting those items.  Raymond CEO Michael Field Told WCDO News that Engineer Josh Smith was challenged by his mother to come up with a Face Shield; he described what they came up with:

(Michael Field 4-22-20)

Field said that they have made about 2000 of the face shields and started to deliver them 2 weeks ago.

Otsego County Department of Health reported 2 new cases of the Coronavirus today, bring their total positive cases to 57.  3 people are currently hospitalized, 35 have recovered, there has been 4 deaths, 61% of confirmed cases have completely recovered.

Governor Cuomo today announced that the number of Coronavirus cases in New York State went up to 222,000 people; Hospitalizations remained at over 17,000, with an average of 2000 new cases discovered daily on average.  The Governor said that the key to restarting the economy and sending people back to work is a lot more testing, with federal financial support;

(Cuomo 4-17-20)

State Budget Director Robert Mujica said that 70% of the state taxpayers filed by the usual April 15th filing date, most of those were getting refunds, those who have to pay, will wait until the July 15th extension, causing a cash flow problem:

(Robert Mujica 4-17-20)

Governor Cuomo said that another 606 people died from the Coronavirus Thursday, bringing the total to 12,858, about 60% of the deaths are male, and 50% of the deaths are age 70 and up.

The Otsego County Health department announced that they had 3 more positive cases of the Coronavirus today, they have 50 positive cases, 4 are hospitalized, 4 have died, 25 have recovered, 30 people are quarantined & 157 have been released from quarantine.

The top Republican in the State Assembly, Brian Kolb, was charged with a DWI in his hometown of Victor New Year’s Eve.    Kolb has served in the State Assembly since 2000, he has led the minority Assembly Republicans for the last 11 years, and some State Republicans are calling for Kolb to step down.  Kolb will be back in court at a later date.

The
Otsego County Planning & Solid Waste Department and the Otsego County
Conservation Association announced the 2020 plastic film recycling
challenge.   Schools in Otsego County are
competing to see who can collect the most plastic film for recycling through
April 15th; the winners will be announced at OCCA’s Earth Festival on April
18th.  10 schools are currently signed up,
more information or to sign up, call 547-4256.

4 people accused of participating in the murder of 53 year
old Kenneth Robinson of Worcester in October, were arraigned in Otsego County
Court.  15-year-old Anais Soto of Oneonta
was granted a reduction in bail to $2500; she was released & was ordered to
wear an ankle monitor.  Dylan Robinson,
Alexander Borgreen & Nicolas Meridy were arraigned for 2nd degree Murder,
1st degree Burglary, and Attempted Robbery, Meridy is still being held without
bail; Robinson and Borgreen’s are being held on $25,000 cash Bail or $50,000
Bond.

Destination Oneonta will hold
their 3rd Annual Day of Holiday Fun Saturday & Sunday.  Saturday celebrations include the Home for
the Holidays Parade at 4:00 PM, followed by the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
at 5:30pm on Main Street in Muller Plaza; Santa will meet with children at
Santa's Cottage.  On Sunday, there will
be a Gingerbread Contest, the Festival of Trees & Holiday Cookie Swap, at
the Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street.

Otsego County Sheriff's Department arrested 22 year old John
Morton of Fayetteville, for the theft of a motor vehicle from the Village of
Cooperstown on December 1st.  Police were
called to Stewart's following the complaint by a patron that when she returned
to her car from inside the store, her vehicle was gone; she did leave the car
unlocked with it running.   State Police
located the vehicle on State Route 28 in Richfield Springs, Morton was charged
with 3rd degree Grand Larceny, & 2 counts of Petty Larceny, he was
arraigned & remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $2000 cash bail or $4,000
bond pending future court action.

The City of Norwich Police Department and the Chenango
County Sheriff’s Office are seeking information on 31 year old Christopher
Lacroce, for allegedly leading Police on a high speed chase last Friday, &
who is also wanted on a warrant for allegedly hitting a pedestrian with a
vehicle September 15th at the intersection of Mitchell and Silver streets in
Norwich.  Lacroce faces charges of
2nd-degree assault, among other charges that are pending following Friday’s
chase.   Anyone with information
regarding Lacroce’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Norwich City Police
Department at 607-334-2424 or the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office at
607-334-2000.

The Otsego County Chamber's
Small Business Banquet will be held on Thursday, November 21 at The Otesaga
Hotel and Resort in Cooperstown.
Nominations for various awards are being taken currently; the
nominations are requested to the Chamber by this Friday.

State officials, the Division of Homeland Security and the
Office of Fire Prevention and Control will preside over the 22nd Annual New
York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony this morning.   The Ceremony will honor 23 fallen
firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty, at the Empire State
Plaza Convention Center in Albany at 11:00 AM.

SUNY Oneonta officials estimate
that about 2000 new students are moving in today, as classes start for the fall
semester on Monday.   A number of
orientations for the new students will be held prior to the start of classes
for the incoming freshman.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 23 year old
Joseph Hahn of Walton for Driving While Ability Impaired due to Drugs,
following an investigation of a 4 car motor vehicle accident on Main Street in
Delhi.   Hahn allegedly rear ended a
parked vehicle, causing damage to an additional two vehicles, while operating a
motor vehicle while impaired by drugs.
Hahn was released on appearance tickets, and was scheduled to appear
before the Town of Delhi Court at a later date for further process.

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary
local area unemployment rates for July 2019. The State wide rate was 4%, locally;
Chenango & Otsego Counties had 4% unemployment, Delaware County 4.5%.

The next regular meeting of the
Oneonta Common Council will be held this evening.  The meeting starts at 7:00 PM in the Common
Council Chambers at City Hall.

State Police at Oneonta arrested 25 year old Phillip Davis
of Strasburg, Virginia Sunday, for 2 counts of the felony of Criminal
Possession of a Firearm.   A trooper
responded to an accident involving a motorcycle on I-88 in the town of
Worcester, Davis told the trooper that when a tractor trailer passed him, he lost
control of his Harley, he was uninjured, it was discovered that Davis was in
possession of 2 guns illegally in the rear storage area of his motorcycle, Davis
did not possess a pistol permit.  He was
arrested and arraigned in the town of Worcester court where he was remanded to
the Otsego County Jail on $2000 cash bail or $4000 bond.  Davis will appear in court on July 2nd.

Communities & Educators are looking at ways to curb
tobacco use & the use of fruit flavored E-Cigarettes like Juul, that are hooking
a whole new generation of people getting addicted to Nicotine.  Linda Wegner of Advancing Tobacco Free
Communities of Delaware, Otsego & Schoharie Counties explains;

(Linda Wegner 5-28-19)

Wegner said that 1 Juul packet contains as much nicotine as
an entire pack of tobacco cigarettes and her group is continuing to try to
educate local residents not to be tricked into nicotine use & addiction.

State Senator Fred Akshar released a new Community Voice
Survey on a proposal to end religious and any other non-medical exemptions for
vaccination for children attending school in New York State.  All 50 states require that students be vaccinated
for diseases like measles, mumps, chicken pox and polio among many others, all
states allow exemptions for medical reasons, but 47 (including New York) allow
exemptions for religious reasons.   The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that measles was eradicated
in 2000; however 940 measles cases were reported nationwide this year, with
more than half of those reported in New York City & Rockland County.   Akshar is asking his constituents to weigh
in on Senate bill S.2994 which would repeal all non-medical exemptions from vaccination
requirements for children; the survey is available at Akshar.NYSenate.Gov.