WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-16-26
State DEC & State Department of Health issued an updated Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate matter for Today, due to the statewide impact of smoke from wildfires in Canada. New Yorkers may see visible smoke and hazy skies across the state and spikes in smoke-related pollution. The updated advisory for the Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York and Western New York regions are forecast to reach Very Unhealthy status, through midnight tonight. More information regarding the Canadian wildfire smoke can be found at airnow.gov.

The Final Report from the National Transportation Safety Board has been released regarding a 2024 plane crash in Delaware County. The report said that the accident was likely due to the pilot; 76 year old Roger Beggs who had spatial disorientation while flying in poor weather conditions, the single-engine, Piper Malibu crashed on June 30, 2024, near Trout Creek, 12 minutes after taking off from the Albert S. Nader Regional Airport in Oneonta, on its way to Yeager Airport in Charleston, West Virginia. State Police identified the victims of the crash as Roger Beggs, his daughter Laura VanEpps, and her husband, Ryan VanEpps, and their children James and Harrison VanEpps.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Detail in Chenango County, all businesses were in compliance; NONE of the locations checked sold alcohol to a person under the age of 21. 13 businesses were checked in Norwich & Sherburne, 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, if asked.

The Sidney Alumni Weekend will be held from Friday through Sunday with a variety of events, according to Alumni President Bryan Innes:

(Bryan Innes 7-16-26)

The full schedule of events can be found at sidneyalumni.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 7-16-26
Governor Hochul announced that the AIR QUALITY ADVISORY has been expanded to the entire State, as the Smoke From Canadian Wildfires and High Temperatures are Creating Unhealthy Air Conditions Across the State. New Yorkers Should Avoid Spending Time Outdoors if Possible; Sensitive Groups Should Take Particular Caution, More Than 100,000 N95-Style Masks are Available to Counties Statewide. New Yorkers Can Sign Up for Weather and Emergency Alerts by Texting 333111. New Yorkers should also continue to monitor the Air Quality Index at airnow.gov.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-3-26

The State DEC announced that on January 28th, in the Town of New Lisbon, Forest Rangers responded for a search for a missing 70-year-old after her husband called to report her missing. Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputies followed her tracks to Butternut Creek, A Forest Ranger Laymon went to County Route 12, where the road crosses the creek, and spotted the missing subject standing in a cornfield. Otsego County Emergency Medical Services transported the patient to Bassett Hospital.

Local government sales tax collections in New York state totaled $24.4 billion in calendar year 2025, an increase of 4.5%, or $1 billion, from 2024, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Aggregate county collections outside of New York City grew 4%, or $443 million, in 2025 compared to the previous year. 52 of 57 Counties experienced an increase in collections, Chenango County had the highest growth at 11.8%, followed by Yates, Hamilton and Delaware at 10.7%.

The latest Sienna Institute Polling has Governor Kathy Hochul holding a commanding lead over Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, 54-28%. Among registered Democrats, Hochul has an overwhelming 64-11% lead over Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado. 6 of the Governors proposals received 58-68% support, including eliminating state income tax on the first $25,000 earned in tips, ensuring immigration enforcement targeting those in the country illegally, cannot occur in sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals, & places of worship, increasing childcare funding & providing $30 million in payments to farmers to offset what Hochul calls rising costs due to tariffs (59-17%).

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that 62 year old Amber Sines of Sidney pleaded guilty in the Village of Sidney Court to Driving While Intoxicated, Sines was sentenced yesterday to 60 days in jail to be followed by 3 years of probation supervision, her license was revoked, and she will be required to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle she owns or operates if she re-obtains the privilege to drive. Sines was arrested last March by State Police after observing a vehicle sitting stationery at the intersection of State Highway 8 and Delaware Avenue in the Village of Sidney, the vehicle had an expired registration and inspection and she failed Standardized Field Sobriety Tests at the scene and was placed into custody.

On January 31st, State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Detail in Otsego County, all 14 business were in compliance, NONE of the locations checked sold alcohol to a person under that age of 21. The detailed focused on Otsego County Businesses in Oneonta, Schenevus & Worcester, 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 (if asked).

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).

Governor Hochul announced that the last statewide Free Fishing Day of 2025 will occur Tuesday, to mark Veterans Day. During Free Fishing Days, New York State waives the fishing license requirement for freshwater fishing in New York’s waters. While no license is required, all other freshwater fishing regulations remain in effect.

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 9-2-25

Governor Hochul is reminding New York parents to visit ny.gov/phonefree to review the distraction-free learning policy for their child’s school district or charter school, as they must implement bell-to-bell restrictions on smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices. The ny.gov/phonefree webpage enables parents and students to look up the distraction-free policies published by approximately 1,080 school districts around the state

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.

The Tri-County Chapter of the New York State Women's Inc.'s annual AMBA blood Screening clinic will be held this Saturday at the Sidney Elks'; Lodge of River Street from 6:00 to 10:00 AM. Participants must have a prescription from their Doctor, appointments must be made at 1-800-234-8888.

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.

The Chenango County Historical Society won a Technical Assistance grant, which will go for a Specialized Conservation Study for the roof of their building, the former Ward School No. 2, on Rexford Street in Norwich, Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 8-29-25)

The Preservation League of New York State and the State Council on the Arts selected 31 applicants in 20 counties to receive support totaling $347,500. Chenango County Historical Society will be working with Delta Engineers, Architects, & Surveyors to finalize roof replacement plans shortly.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-8-25

State Police today announced that Troopers issued a total of 10,497 tickets statewide during the 4th of July STOP-DWI enforcement campaign, which ran from Thursday, July 3rd to Sunday, July 6th. Troopers arrested 210 people for DWI and investigated 716 crashes, including five fatal motor vehicle crashes, Troopers issued thousands of tickets for other traffic violations, including over 3500 for speeding, over 1000 for seat belt use, and 301 for failure to obey the Move Over Law. IN troop c there were 327 ticketed for speeding, 12 for distracted driving, 67 for violating seat belt laws & 46 for violating the move over law.

State Police arrested 26 year old Calvin Verny-Rasmussen of Cortland for crimes involving children. Verny-Rasmussen’s arrest stems from a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children indicating that child sexual abuse material was being shared online. The Troop C Computer Crimes Unit and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation further revealed that in addition to promoting and possessing images consistent with child sexual exploitation, Verny-Rasmussen inappropriately touched a child under the age of 11, he was charged with Sexual Abuse, Promoting Sexual Performance of a Child, Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Verny-Rasmussen was processed and turned over to the Cortland County Jail on $5,000 cash bail or $10,000 bond.

Neal Morrison of Vestal pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Weapon in Broome County Court in exchange for a sentence of 8 years in State Prison, followed by 5 years of Post Release Supervision. Morrison also pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession of a Firearm, for which he will receive a sentence of 1½ to 3 years in State Prison. The charges stem from 2 separate incidents, on April 21, Vestal officers encountered Morrison exhibiting signs of erratic behavior, he was taken into custody under Mental Health Law for evaluation. While securing his residence, officers observed a shotgun under a blanket along with a glass smoking device and a pellet gun. In May, Endicott Police Department responded to an abandoned residence, Morrison was found sleeping behind a couch, and there was an active warrant for his arrest. A search revealed a firearm in a holster, Morrison will be sentenced on October 9th in Broome County Court.

The Nate Lull Scholarship Golf Tournament on Sunday at Ouleout Creek Golf Course in Franklin, raised $14,000 to be used for graduating seniors in 2026, Nate Commented about the generosity of people involved in the tournament each year:

(Nate Lull 7-8-25)

Lull said that he will have more details about another golf fundraiser and another at Awestruck Ciders in Sidney in the coming months.

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.

Binghamton Police, State Police & Broome County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a head on crash in Binghamton yesterday at about 4:30 PM, where 2 people died and 1 person was injured in a 3 car crash in the Court Street construction zone. The drivers of a sedan and an SUV were pronounced dead at the scene, the driver of the 3rd vehicle was taken to Wilson Hospital, Police reported that it appeared a driver tried to pass a vehicle in the construction zone where no passing is permitted, causing the fatal crash. The investigation is continuing, the names of the deceased were not released pending family notification.

Chenango County Planning and Economic Development Department has been approved by the state to help homeowners in the event of a natural disaster, Department Director Shane Butler explains:

(Shane Butler 7-7-25)

Eligible homeowners may qualify for up to $50,000 to fix damages caused by natural disaster events, more information is available at hcr.ny.gov.

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.

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.

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.

The Delaware Valley Humane Society is looking for donations of various supplies for the shelter & their animals, Director Erin Insinga explains:

(Erin Insinga 6-23-25)

More information is available by calling 607-563-7780.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 6-23-25

Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in 32 New York counties after severe thunderstorms resulted in 3 deaths and thousands of power outages across parts of the state, and due to the forecast of extreme heat expected to last through Wednesday. The National Weather Service has confirmed a tornado touched down early Sunday morning in Clark Mills, 3 people were killed from the Storms, The state of emergency exists in Broome, Chenango, Delaware & Otsego Counties locally.

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.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Detail in Chenango County Thursday. All of the businesses checked were in compliance and did not sell alcohol to an underaged operative. Businesses that complied included area Mirabito Quickway stores, Stewarts Shops, Speedways & privately owned liquor stores in Norwich, & Sherburne. 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.

The State DEC announced several proposed regulation changes to streamline use and reporting of hunting tags and provide new deer hunting opportunities. First, DEC proposes a process for using electronic carcass tags for deer, bear, and turkey. Second, DEC proposes to provide a replacement regular season deer tag to youth hunters who successfully use that tag during the Youth Big Game Hunt weekend. Finally, DEC also proposes to enhance the Deer Management Assistance Program by extending the permit renewal cycle from 3 years to 5 years, More information is available at the the DEC website.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking detail in Otsego and Delaware Counties, all of the businesses checked were in compliance and did not sell alcohol to an under-aged operative. 12 Businesses complied, including Mirabito Quickway stores in Oneonta, Laurens, Hartwick, Colliersville, Otego, Unadilla & Davenport. 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 (if asked).

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 42 year old Ryan Darran of Stamford, for DWI, following an investigation of a motor vehicle accident on May 17th. Deputies responded to a 1 car accident on State Highway 23 in the Town of Harpersfield, the vehicle left the roadway and entered a ditch, Deputies interviewed Darran & charged him with DWI and other lesser charges, Darran was released on appearance tickets for Town of Harpersfield Court at a later date.

Governor Hochul announced that more than $50 million has been awarded to 50 projects through the State's Restore New York Communities Initiative. Locally, the Village of Cooperstown will get $1 million to demolish 217 Main Street, in favor of a 50-unit, 3-story apartment building. The Village of Franklin will receive $1 million to rehabilitate 3 vacant properties at 438-444 Main Street to be redeveloped into 5 new commercial businesses and a new apartment. The City of Norwich will receive $1 million for the former office building at 23 East Main Street to be repurposed for a childcare center, the 2nd floor will house Commerce Chenango offices with a reception area, The site’s emergency generator and location also position it for FEMA shelter designation, further strengthening community resilience.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 5-22-25

The General Clinton Canoe Regatta will have 3 days of activities on and off the Susquehanna River, Co-Chairman Mike Kaufman told WCDO News about some of the activities on Saturday:

(Mike Kaufman Saturday)

Co-Chair Christine Smith told WCDO News about some of Saturday's entertainment:

(Christine Smith Saturday)

This year is the 63rd edition of the Regatta and WCDO will once again have coverage of the event, including full team coverage on Sunday for the 70 mile races.

Governor Hochul announced that contracts have been executed for 26 large-scale land-based renewable energy projects that, upon completion, will provide more than 2.5 gigawatts of clean energy, powering more than 670,000 homes throughout the State. The projects are expected to create more than 1,900 jobs and generate more than $6 billion in private investment statewide. Contracted projects include the High Bridge Wind, in Chenango County.

City of Oneonta announced that a new traffic pattern will go into effect starting Monday, June 2nd as part of Phase I of the State DOT's Reconstruction Project of the Main & Maple Street Roundabout project. There will be Road closures that will impact Main Street, Lettis Highway, and Maple Street where they intersect. Route 23 Northbound traffic may turn onto Route 7 Eastbound, Route 7 Eastbound traffic may turn onto Route 23 Southbound,all other routes through the intersection will be closed to traffic. Detours will be in place.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-18-25

The State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for January 2025. The State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held constant at 4.4% in January, locally, Chenango County had 4.4% unemployment, Delaware County 4.9% & Otsego County 5.3%.

State Police are continuing with their St. Patrick’s Day special detail through today. Drivers can still expect to encounter DWI patrols, sobriety checkpoints, State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers, and they will also conduct underage drinking and unlawful sales to minors details during the campaign. Last year, Troopers arrested 132 people for DWI, issued 124 tickets for distracted driving and 5,576 tickets in total.

The State DOT Reminds motorists that starting today, culvert work will begin on State Route 17 westbound in the Town of Sanford. Drivers should follow the posted detour using Exit 83, left onto Broome County Route 28 west for half a mile, then left back onto SR 17. Access for oversized vehicles will be restricted throughout the closure, which is expected to last 2 weeks.

Village Elections are being held throughout the state today, where constituents will be voting for mayors and/or village board members, check with your village clerk for more information on polling places and candidates.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 3-17-25

State Police are continuing with their St. Patrick’s Day special detail through tomorrow. Drivers can still expect to encounter additional DWI patrols and a number of sobriety checkpoints, State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers who are using handheld electronic devices and will also conduct underage drinking and unlawful sales to minors details during the campaign. Last year, Troopers arrested 132 people for DWI, issued 124 tickets for distracted driving and 5,576 tickets in total.

Tomorrow is Election day for villages across the state. In Sidney, 3 candidates, Vic Tartaglia, Pat Cristelli & Luther Higley are running for 2 seats on the board, Andrew Skrobanski is seeking re-election as village justice, he is unopposed. in Unadilla, there are 2 open seats for 2 year trustee positions, to find out about elections in your village, contact your local village clerk's office.

The State DOT announced that beginning tomorrow, westbound State Route 17 in the Town of Sanford, will be closed for a culvert replacement, the project is expected to take about 2 weeks to complete. Drivers should follow the posted detour utilizing Exit 83, Broome County Route 28 westbound for half a mile, then left back onto State Route 17. Access for over-sized vehicles will be restricted throughout the duration of the closure.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 48 year old Scott Strain of Morris, for Dissemination of Indecent Material to Minors, Promoting a Sexual Performance of a Child and 3rd degree rape, following an investigation into a sex abuse complaint received from the New York State Child Abuse Hotline. Investigation revealed that Strain allegedly entered into a sexual relationship with a minor and did request and receive indecent material from the minor. A Search Warrant was executed Friday & Strain was taken in to custody. Strain was processed at the Sheriff’s Office and lodged in the Otsego County Correctional Facility for Arraignment. An order of protection was requested on behalf of the victim. The investigation is on-going and additional charges are pending.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-18-25

Governor Hochul today announced preparations to call in the National Guard to staff the State Correctional Facility, if the Illegal Job Action staged by State Correction Officers; does not end tomorrow. The National Guard will be called in to protect correction officers who are currently on the job, individuals being held at Correctional Facilites as well as the surrounding communities. The Governor also directed Department of Corrections leadership and senior Administration officials to meet with leaders from the State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association to call for an end to the unlawful work stoppage. In March 2024, the union agreed to a collective bargaining agreement with the State of New York to improve working conditions for corrections officers.

State Police arrested 24 Year Old Fiona Taylor of Norwich & 47 year old Lauren McKinley of Norwich in connection with a case of animal neglect in Chenango County last month. On January 22nd, 56 animals were removed from a property on Mudge King Road in the town of North Norwich. During the execution of a search warrant, 30 horses, a pig, 7 sheep, 4 goats, 4 chickens, 7 dogs and 3 cats were in need of immediate care and were transported to various local animal rescue locations, 12 dead animals were observed on the property that included horses, goats, pigs and chickens. Taylor & McKinley have been charged with 16 counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and 65 counts of Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance Both women were issued appearance tickets and are scheduled to appear at the North Norwich Town Court on February 26th.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office announced that a Oneonta man was arrested on an Arrest Warrant issued by the Town of Delhi Court. On June 29th, 2023, Sheriff Deputies responded to a reported Domestic Dispute in Delhi, Deputies had applied for & received an Arrest Warrant for Daquan Brown for Aggravated Harassment and Criminal Mischief, Monday evening, Town of Colchester Police responded to a report of a car in a snow bank, the operator was Daquan Brown who was taken in to custody by deputies on the warrant. he was turned over to the Delaware County Correctional facility for Arrangement.

New York State is waiving registration fees for out-of-state snowmobilers on 2 weekends this winter - February 28th through March 2 and again March 7th through the 9th, so that snowmobilers can ride on over 10,000 miles of snowmobile trails in New York State. Outside of these free weekends, snowmobilers from out-of-state and Canada are required to register their snowmobiles with New York State, more information is available at iloveny.com/winter (https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/winter/).

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-18-25

Calling hours & Funeral arrangements have been announced for Binghamton Firefighter John Gaudet, who died fighting a fire at 1 Main Street last Wednesday evening. The Gaudet family will receive friends at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, located in Binghamton, today from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, the funeral mass will be held Wednesday Morning at 11:30 AM at the same location. The official cause of death for Gaudet has not yet been announced, he served for 11 years with the Binghamton Fire Department.

On February 11th, State Police conducted an Underage Drinking detail in Otsego County. All of the businesses checked were in compliance and did not sell alcohol to an underage operative. The 14 businesses were in Worcester, Schenevus, Oneonta & Milford, During these investigations, businesses are checked utilizing a Trooper in plainclothes and one or several underage operatives who cannot lie about their age or provide a false date of birth (if asked).

Animal Adventure Park announced on February 15 that Johari the giraffe passed away at the age of 20, Cornell University will be conducting the autopsy to provide more details about the death of the popular Giraffe.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 3-16-23

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

State Police and local law enforcement will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired and reckless driving as St. Patrick's Day celebrations get underway starting this weekend. This special traffic enforcement detail, which is funded by the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, begins on Friday and runs through Sunday. Drivers can expect to encounter additional DWI patrols and sobriety checkpoints during the enforcement period. State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers who are using handheld electronic devices and will conduct checks at retail establishments targeting underage drinking and unlawful sales to minors during the campaign.

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

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

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-16-23

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

The state DEC announced that the annual Burn Ban goes into effect today, the ban will run through May 14th.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 3-18-21

State Health department announced that some restrictions are being lessened as COVID positivity rates continue to decline & vaccinations increase.  Indoor fitness classes can resume at limited capacity on March 22, at 33% with health screening and contact information required at sign-in.  Local health departments shall inspect before or within 2 weeks of the fitness center opening to ensure compliance.  Also, Beginning April 5th, the 11:00 PM curfew currently in place for casinos, movie theaters, bowling alleys, billiards halls, gyms and fitness centers will be lifted. The 11pm curfew for food and beverage establishments and the midnight curfew for catered events will remain in effect; both curfews will be re-evaluated in late April.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Initiative Tuesday, in Otsego & Chenango Counties.  All 17 businesses were found to be in compliance in Greene, Oxford, Norwich, Sherburne, & Morris.  During the Underage Drinking Detail Initiative retail establishments are checking utilizing a trooper in plain clothes and one or several under aged operative who cannot lie about their age or give a fake date of birth.  When asked for ID, they must show their real ID.

Chenango County Public Health reported 13 more COVID positive tests; they report 83 Active Cases, 252 Active Quarantines, 7 hospitalizations & 2598 Total Confirmed Cases, with 2357 recoveries & 64 deaths.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-18-21

The state-run mass vaccination site at SUNY Oneonta will open Friday, Bassett Healthcare Network staff will work at the site each day, along with Staff from the State, the National Guard and Otsego County Public Health.  Anyone currently eligible under state guidelines can find the link to register at bassett.org/covid-19, after registering, patients should go to forms.ny.gov/s3/vaccine.  Eligible New Yorkers can also schedule appointments by utilizing New York's 'Am I Eligible' website or by calling the state's COVID-19 Vaccination Hotline at 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).  Each site will be open from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. daily.

Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 43 year old Michael Palmer of Binghamton after they executed a search warrant at his residence.  Police seized over $10,000 in cash, Fentanyl & drug packaging materials, Palmer was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and tampering with physical evidence; he was arraigned in Binghamton City Court and was remanded to the Broome County Jail.

Delaware County Public Health will be conducting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Saturday at the DCMO BOCES- Harrold Campus, on State Route 206 from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This vaccination clinic is open to New York state residents or people who work in New York State who presently qualify by being 60+ years of age, an eligible worker 18+ years of age, or those with qualifying medical conditions 18+ years of age.  Eligibility requirements are available at covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/phaseddistribution-vaccine, Registration is mandatory at delawarecountypublichealth.com/covid-19.

Governor
Cuomo & the State Health Department announced the latest situation today
regarding the Coronavirus.  The state
Health Department is in contact with the 28 private labs, to get them up to
speed for testing for the virus, they expect to double the number of testing
next to 6000 a day.  Today there are 421 confirmed
cases of the Coronavirus in New York State, 50 people are hospitalized, there
have been no deaths in New York State, and there are 41 nationwide, 31 in the
State of Washington.

Delaware
County Sheriff's Office is investigating an on-line computer repair scam that
led to significant financial loss to an elderly local resident.  Investigators were contacted by The Delaware
National Bank of Delhi, the customer had fallen victim twice to an on-line
Pop-Up scam and lost thousands of dollars, the victim was stopped from further
issues by an alert UPS employee. The investigation is on-going by Delaware
County Sheriff's Investigators and San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.  Sheriff DuMond reminds the public that they
should contact the Sheriff's Office or local law enforcement if they may be the
target of a scam or identity theft.  On-line
complaint forms are available through the State Attorney General, ag.ny.gov;
the Federal Trade Commission, consumer.ftc.gov; and the FBI at ic3.gov.

Officials
with Quest Diagnostics announced that the AMBA Blood Clinic will continue as
planned tomorrow morning at the Sidney Elks Lodge.  The event will run from 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM,
officials said that just over 80 people have made appointments, spread out over
the 3 1/2 hours, which falls within the parameters set by the State Health
Department Thursday.

State
Police will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired and reckless driving as
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations get underway this weekend. This enforcement
detail begins today and runs through next Wednesday.  Drivers can expect to encounter additional
DWI patrols and a number of sobriety checkpoints during the enforcement period.
State Police will also be ticketing districted drivers who are using handheld
electronic devices, and will also conduct underage drinking and unlawful sales
to minor’s details during the campaign.
The Governor's Traffic Safety Committee & the State STOP-DWI
Foundation suggest that people download the "Have a Plan" mobile app,
to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list.

The
Chenango County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution to implement a 4%
occupancy "Bed" tax in Chenango County. The new Law will provide a
dedicated funding stream to promote and develop the tourism industry in
Chenango County and to reduce pressure on the property tax levy.  Chenango County has been one of just a few
counties in New York State that had not previously collected a bed tax.   Tourism is New York’s 3rd largest industry,
hosting 253 million visitors annually who spend 71.8 billion at NYS businesses
creating 114.8 billion in economic impact.

The New
York State Public High School Athletic Association announced that regional
& state championships will be postponed indefinitely.  The impacted events include Ice Hockey, Bowling
& the Boys & Girls Basketball regional & State Championships.  Officials announced the postponements were
due to the reports of the Corona Virus outbreaks across the state, to insure
the safety & health of the student athletes.

State Police in Troop C held several sobriety checkpoints
and had increased patrols during Super Bowl weekend, 3 people were arrested for
Driving While Intoxicated.  Charged were
49 year old Melissa Bevins of West Winfield, 21 year old Devlin Nagle of Montrose,
Pennsylvania & 22 year old Ryan Ripic of Endicott, all 3 were issued appearance
tickets.

Overall growth in local sales tax collections statewide in
2019 was relatively strong, according to a report released today by State
Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. Collections across the state, totaling $18.3 billion,
grew by 4.7%% from the previous year.
Sales tax collections increased more rapidly during the second half of
2019 & 13 of the 17 cities that impose a sales tax experienced increases in
year-over-year collections in 2019, the City of Oneida had the strongest growth
of 8.6% followed by Norwich at 8.4%.

State Budget Hearings are underway in Albany, local
Assemblyman Cliff Crouch comments about where they are in the process:

(Crouch 2-3-20)

Crouch said that the Revenue projections
from both house are always different, Lawmakers then have until April 1st to
get the budget implemented in time for the start of the new fiscal year.

State Police conducted an Underage Drinking Enforcement
Detail in Chenango County on January 23, All 15 retail establishments were
found to be in compliance with no sale to alcohol to an underage
operative.  During the Underage Drinking
Initiative, retail establishments are checked utilizing a trooper in plain
clothes and one or several underage operative who cannot lie about their age or
give a fake date of birth. When asked for identification, they show their real
ID.

Governor Cuomo announced an update on the status of testing
for the novel coronavirus in New York State. As of today, samples from 12 New
Yorkers have been sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for
testing. Of those, 11 have come back negative. One sample, from New York City,
is awaiting results from the federal Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention. There are no confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in New York
State.  Additionally, today the Governor
announced New Yorkers can call a hotline at 1-888-364-3065 where Department of
Health experts will be available to answer questions regarding the Novel
Coronavirus.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 23 year old
William Merrill of Delhi for Overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, in
violation of State Agriculture and Markets Law.  Merrill is accused of beating a dog December
of 2019 in the Town of Meredith.  In
accordance with the new bail reform laws, Merrill was released with an
appearance ticket where he will appear in the Town of Meredith Court at a later
date.

Oneonta
Police, State Police & the Oneonta Fire department responded to the report
of a woman hit by a car on the Lettis Highway near Main Street last night.  32 year old April Johnson of Oneonta was
crossing the highway & was struck by a vehicle driven by 41 year old David
Shafer of Otego, who was ticketed for Aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor
vehicle.  Johnson was taken to Fox
Hospital & was later transferred to Albany Medical Center; the highway was
closed for about 2 ½ hours for the investigation.

State
Police & local law enforcement agencies are hosting “Coffee with a Cop” on
Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at The Tulip and The Rose Café at 435 Main
Street in Franklin.  The public is
invited to talk with law enforcement about concerns and ask questions,   Coffee with a Cop is a national program
launched by the Hawthorne Police Department in California.

State
Police conducted an Underage Drinking Enforcement detail in Delaware County on
December 19, 9 establishments were checked in Davenport, Stamford, Hobart and
Delhi.  1 unlawful sale was made to an
underage operative at “It’s Five O’clock Somewhere” in Stamford.  73 year old Colin Heath of Stamford was
issued an appearance ticket for Unlawful Sale of Alcohol to a Minor; he will appear
in the town of Stamford court on January 14th.

New
York lost more people than any other state in the nation for the 2nd year in a
row, according to estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau.  New York has a population of  19.5 million people, ranking 4th out of the
50 states,  the state's population
dropped by 76,790 other states losing significant population were Illinois,
West Virginia & Alaska.   New York
could lose 1 congressional seat when district lines are redrawn based on the
2020 Census.  Top reasons cited for
leaving New York included low wages, lack of jobs, high housing costs, bad
weather, partisan politics, high energy costs, crime & high taxes.

New
York Farm Bureau has released its annual "Circle of Friends," naming
77 New York State Legislators to the distinguished list. The award is an
indication of the individual lawmaker's support of New York agriculture and
Farm Bureau.   All of the representatives
from the state Senate & Assembly from the tri County area were chosen.

Delaware County Sheriff's
Deputies, State Police and the Stamford Fire Department and Emergency Squad
responded to a 911 report of a fatal hit-and-run vehicle-pedestrian accident on
State Highway 10 in the Village of Stamford.
The Preliminary investigation indicates that the victim, 24 year-old
Shannon German of Stamford was lying in the roadway when she was struck by a
tractor trailer that continued traveling north following the collision.  State Highway 10 was subsequently closed to
traffic for several hours for the investigation.  The tractor trailer and driver was located in
the Schenectady area by State Police, who has been identified as 50-year-old
Peter Baldauf of Delancey, who did not see German lying in the roadway and
unknowingly struck her.  Baldauf has not
been charged in relation to the accident.

Assemblyman Cliff Crouch has
been named to participate in the budget conference committees, now that both
houses of the legislature have passed their budget bills:

(Cliff Crouch 3-15-19)

The budget is due on April 1st,
the state budget office stated that the Senate budget would add 3.5 billion
dollars to the deficit, the assembly bill adds unnecessary spending & added
taxes to pay for it.

Officials with Social Security
report that a scam reported in January is still continuing.  The scam includes a phone call from someone
claiming to be from Social Security or another agency, thee calls can even
display the Social Security national customer service number, on the caller
ID.  The scammer states that Social
Security does not have all of your personal information on file, or needs
additional information so the agency can increase benefit payments, or that
Social Security will terminate your benefits if they do not confirm your
information; none of These calls are from Social Security. Officials stated
that if you receive these calls, do not give personal information, hang up
& report the call to the Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271.

State Police and local law
enforcement will conduct a special targeted enforcement detail this St.
Patrick's Day weekend to deter drinking and driving. The traffic enforcement
detail begins today and runs through Monday. Drivers can expect a number of
sobriety checkpoints, additional DWI patrols, underage drinking and sales to
minors details during the campaign. State Police will also be ticketing
distracted drivers who use handheld electronic devices.   During the 2018 St. Patrick's Day weekend
enforcement effort, Troopers made 243 arrests for DWI and issued nearly 13,000
tickets.

Fire fighters from Sidney responded to a fire at 14 East Main Street in Sidney this afternoon, shortly before 5:00 PM.  Fire fighters at the scene told WCDO News that 1 person was in the house & escaped without injury.  WCDO News will have more details as they become available.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office released more information
regarding this morning’s 2-car crash involving Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy
Kristy Botsford.  The report stated that
Deputy Botsford was driving on State Route 17 westbound with her emergency
lights on assisting the Vestal Police Department in trying to stop a car that
was driving eastbound in the westbound lane.
Vestal Police said the suspect, Daniel Butash stopped his car on the
highway east of Exit 68, as police approached, he continued to drive the wrong
way, and he drove head-on into Deputy Botsford’s Patrol car.  Deputy Botsford became pinned inside her
vehicle, Emergency services used the ‘jaws of life’ to remove her from the car,
and she was taken to Wilson Hospital where she was listed in critical
condition, she suffered a fractured right femur among other injuries.  Butash was driving a 2018 Tesla and suffered
minor facials injuries and cuts to his body, he was also taken to Wilson
Hospital, and Charges against him are pending.

State Police in conjunction with the State Liquor Authority
and SUNY Delhi conducted an Underage Enforcement detail.   24 year old Codey Wood of Delhi was charged
with Prohibited Sale of Alcohol to a Person Under the Age of 21.   Wood is an employee of O’Neill’s Shire Pub
on Main Street in Delhi; he was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the
Delhi Town Court on February 19th.   The
initiative targets the sale of alcohol to minors and utilizes a member of the
New York State Police and an underage undercover operative. No other locations
in the village of Delhi were found in violation and were found to be in
compliance.

Governor Cuomo today announced New York's efforts to deter
underage drinking resulted in a record number of fake identification seizures
in 2018. The year-round Operation Prevent initiative focuses on concert venues,
bars, restaurants and alcohol retailers throughout the State. The State seized
892 fake documents as part of the initiative, 922 people were ticketed for
using false identification or using another person's identification.  18 Fake identification arrests were conducted
in the Southern Tier, 18 fake ID's were seized.

36 year old Matthew Mazepa of Harpursville pleaded guilty
today in US District Court for selling Meth in Chenango & Broome Counties
& Illegally possessing a firearm.
Mazepa was arrested last April by State Police, he faces sentencing on May
21st.

19th District Congressman
Antonio Delgado has announced he will open an office in Oneonta next week.    Delgado’s office will be located at 189
Main Street and will be open 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, as
well as by appointment.

State Police will join local law enforcement agencies across
the state in an effort to crack down on impaired driving during Super Bowl
weekend. The STOP-DWI campaign will include underage drinking enforcement;
drivers can expect a number of sobriety checkpoints and DWI patrols. Law
enforcement will also be looking for motorists who are using their phones and
other electronic devices while behind the wheel. Drivers should also remember
to "move over" for stopped emergency and hazard vehicles stopped on
the side of the road.  The campaign runs
from Saturday until 4:00 AM Monday.

State Police and local law enforcement will conduct special enforcement efforts designed to deter drinking and driving during St. Patrick's Day weekend. The traffic enforcement detail runs through Sunday, Drivers can expect sobriety checkpoints, additional DWI patrols, and stings targeting underage drinking and illegal sales of alcohol to minors during the campaign. State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers who use handheld electronic devices. During the 2017 St. Patrick's Day weekend enforcement effort, Troopers made 229 arrests for DWI and issued nearly 15,000 tickets.

State Police arrested John Griffioen for Reckless Endangerment & Disorderly Conduct, after troopers discovered that Griffioen deliberately caused a traffic hazard by parking his vehicle in the middle of West Hill Road in the town of Worcester, which almost caused a school bus with 31 passengers to collide with his vehicle. He is accused of approaching the bus and shouting at the bus driver. Griffioen was released on appearance tickets and is due in the town of Worcester Court on March 20th.

State Police arrested 39 year old Jillenia Murphy of Afton for DWI, Obstructing Governmental Administration and several traffic infractions. Troopers were dispatched to Oak Hill Road in the town of Afton for a 1-car accident, they located Murphy and her vehicle stuck in the snow. Murphy refused to submit to a breath sample or allow troopers to take her fingerprints and was charged with obstructing governmental administration. Murphy was arraigned and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $500 cash bail or $2,000 bond; she faces court action in the town of Afton Court & Town of Unadilla Court on March 26th.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 21 year old Armoni Prince of Endicott for Criminal Mischief, after deputies responded to a domestic dispute in the Town of Greene. Prince is alleged to have destroyed the cellular phone of the victim who was attempting to contact police for assistance. Prince was arraigned in the Town of Greene Court and was released on recognizance and is to reappear in court at a later date.

State Police arrested 46 year old Marc McKercher of Union for Attempted Arson, after troopers received a complaint of 2 suspicious devices on the front steps and front lawn of a residence on King Street in Endwell. Further investigation revealed the items were improvised explosive devices which did not detonate successfully. State Police Bomb Disposal Unit was called to the scene and rendered the items safe. They secured the items from the scene, the investigation is continuing.

State Senator Fred Akshar will hold his next Town Hall Meeting in Bainbridge tomorrow at the Town Hall Theatre. Constituents are invited to attend from 11:00am to 12:30pm

Norwich Police arrested 37-year-old Sandy Beeching of Norwich for allegedly selling Cocaine in the city of Norwich. Beeching was charged with criminal sale of a controlled substance he was sent to the Chenango County Jail on $10,000 cash bail pending additional court action. The Chenango County Sheriff's Department assisted with the arrest.

State Police & the State Liquor Authority conducted an Underage Drinking Enforcement Detail in Broome County; for businesses that sell alcoholic beverages in Broome County. 9 establishments were checked, 4 sold alcohol to an underage operative. Police charged 49 year old Meredith Bahr of Candor, 22 year old Sarah Kamide of Vestal, 33 year old Maria Bales of Vestal, & 25 year old Victoria Harting of Windsor, All 4 were issued tickets to appear in court at a later date.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced that his office has filed a lawsuit against Insys Therapeutics; he alleged that Insys marketed the fentynal-based drug for much wider use, than how it was approved by the FDA. The suit also claims that Insys downplayed addiction risks and bribed doctors to prescribe their brand, known as Subsys.

Former State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver's retrial will continue on April 16th, following his failed appeal to the Supreme Court. Silver’s previous conviction for corruption was reversed by an appeals court, where he was sentenced to a 12-year prison sentence. Silver is currently free on bail.

Governor Cuomo today announced he has signed an Executive Order to further protect New Yorkers' civil rights by banning all state agencies and authorities from doing business with companies that promote or tolerate discrimination. The Governor also announced he will be advancing legislation that will ban the use of a "Gay Panic" defense to protect against revictimizing New Yorkers. The Governor made the announcements at the 17th Annual Human Rights Gala in New York City.

The State Department of Taxation and Finance, along with the Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection, renewed its warning for all New York tax prepares and human resources professionals of evolving scams aimed at stealing confidential client and employee information after identifying at least 65 companies in New York City, the Capital Region, Central New York, and Western New York that have now been impacted, affecting 7,100 taxpayers. Cyber criminals posing as company executives send emails to payroll and HR professionals requesting lists of employees and their personal information. This year, the scammers are expanding their reach. The Tax Department has identified multiple industries being affected, from health care and legal services to product manufacturing. The Tax Department is in contact with the affected businesses and is working with them to protect their employees.

New York State, like many others, is funding it hard to sell closed down prison sites. A recent study showed that 94 prisons have been closed nationwide since 2011, but only a few have been sold. Developers reported that cell blocks and dormitories tens to be too expensive to tear down & too restrictive to repurpose. An Adirondack prison overlooking the Saratoga Springs area has been on the market for the 2nd time in 2 years, in spite of its proximity to a major tourist destination.

Governor Cuomo announced the State Police, State Liquor Authority, State DMV and local law enforcement launched an enforcement campaign to crack down on impaired drivers during the week of St. Patrick’s Day. The campaign includes a number of sobriety checkpoints, additional DWI patrols, and a detail to crackdown on underage drinking and sales to minors. State Police will also be ticketing distracted drivers using handheld electronic devices. During the 2016 St. Patrick’s Day weekend enforcement effort, Troopers made 257 arrests for DWI and issued more than 17,000 tickets.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced today that State Police, local and municipal law enforcement agencies will increase patrols to crack down on drunk driving and underage drinking this Halloween weekend. The special traffic enforcement detail will begin today and continue through Sunday. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, from 2009 to 2013, 43% of all people killed in motor vehicle crashes across the U.S. on Halloween night were in crashes involving a drunk driver. Motorists can expect to see a number of sobriety checkpoints and additional patrols. Troopers will also conduct a special enforcement detail to crack down on the sale of alcohol to minors.

State Senator Jim Seward will be in Oneonta today at the City Public Safety Building in Oneonta, along with Assemblyman Bill Magee, Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig, and Oneonta Fire Chief Patrick Pidgeon to inspect the fire department’s recently delivered ladder truck. Both Seward and Magee secured a total of $500,000 in state funds to assist in the purchase of the new truck.

The Firemen's Association of the State of New York is urging residents to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms as daylight saving time approaches. Officials with the Association stated that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be cleaned to remove any debris that could prevent them from working properly. Older alarms that have removable batteries should receive a new pair. More information is available at fasny.com.

On Sunday, the Chenango County American Legion will host a joint visitation by the Legion's State Commander James Yermas, & State Auxiliary President Jan Mahoney among others. the leaders will visit Oxford's Fort Hill Post 376, the Veterans' Home at Oxford, the Chenango County Sheriff's Department in Norwich, followed by a reception & dinner at the Lieutenant Warren Eaton, DSC Post 189, at 29 Sheldon Street, Norwich.

Governor Cuomo commemorated the three-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy and released a report detailing the continued progress made by New York State. It underscores the advancements made in rebuilding homes, businesses, and large-scale infrastructure projects in communities and neighborhoods, as spearheaded by the Governor's Office of Storm Recovery. More information can be found at stormrecovery.ny.gov.

26-year-old Timothy Green of New Berlin has been charged with forgery and Grand Larceny following an investigation by the State office of the Inspector General. Green was a substitute worker for the New York State Office for the People with Developmental Disabilities in Norwich, he is accused of submitting fraudulent time sheets for work that he did not do, which resulted in over $39,000 in payments. Green was arraigned in the Town of Guilford court and remanded to the Chenango County jail on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 property bond.

State Police at Sidney arrested 36 year old Brandi Brown of New Berlin for the felony DWI with a BAC result of .16% which is twice the legal limit. This arrest occurred after traffic stop for failing to keep right on State Route 8 in the Town of Guilford. Brown was arraigned at the Town of Guilford court and was released without bail required. Her next court date in the Town of Guilford is November 12, 2015.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a brochure offering tips to New Yorkers buying health insurance coverage for next year, entitled “Shopping For Health Insurance Coverage” Which is being released in advance of the New York State of Health Marketplace’s open enrollment period starting on Sunday. Schneiderman encourages consumers to take advantage of this open enrollment period to evaluate how their current health plan, whether it will change, or to consider what other options are available. Open enrollment through New York State of Health begins on November 1 through December 15th, for coverage effective January 1st.

Governor Cuomo & state leaders met today to discuss the New York Rising program, to distribute money to areas that needed rebuilding after the string of devastating weather events hit the state over the last 3 years. The Governor Commended local leaders in attendance for their efforts in putting together plans to rebuild their communities:

(Cuomo 4-23-14)

Local counties were awarded millions of dollars through the Regional Councils, for their for infrastructure repairs or replacements following Superstorm Sandy, Tropical Storm Lee & Hurricane Irene since 2011.

The State Labor Department released local area unemployment rates for March.   The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 6.9% in March, the number of private sector jobs in the state was 7,539,300, the highest ever for the month. Locally, the Binghamton & Southern Tier region had 7.6% unemployment, down 9/10th from March of last year.

State Police & the State Liquor Authority conducted an underage drinking initiative detail in Otsego & Delaware counties.   The detail used a group of 3 underage operatives who attempted to purchase alcoholic beverages from 4 convenient stores and 5 bars in Otsego & Delaware Counties. No arrests were made as all the establishments passed.   The establishments were located in Meridale, Delhi, Davenport, & Oneonta.

Local authorities are currently not required to be notified of hazardous materials being brought through an area on freight cars. US Senator Charles Schumer is calling for that policy to be changed, currently, the State Police in Albany are notified, but that does not help the local authorities and emergency responders in the event of a train derailment.

New York State ended the 2013-14 fiscal year with a budget surplus, and deposited $175 million in the Rainy Day Reserve Fund, according to a report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. However, DiNapoli said the $143 billion budget continues to rely on temporary funding sources to attain balance. The General Fund’s year-end balance, of more than $2.2 billion, was $432 million more than the February Financial Plan projections.

State Police have arrested 9 people in connection with an Oneida County child sex trafficking ring. 30 year old Edward Tilden 23 year old Alexandria Davall and 25-year-old Lynnette Tilden are accused of using Backpage.com to advertise and sell sexual favors, sometimes involving an underage victim. They were charged with felony sex trafficking. Police also arrested 28-year-old Michael Olsen, and 56-year-old David Jamrosz, for criminal sex act, 22-year-old Michael Curcio and 32-year-old Rosheen Brooks were charged with rape, 61-year-old Jakeem Penn and 61-year-old Curtis O'Dell were charged with endangering the welfare of a child. State Police believe more people have been trafficked within this ring, and are public input at 315 366-6000.

New York's Moreland Commission has issued subpoenas to utilities companies, regarding their response time & readiness in relation to Hurricane Sandy this year, as well as Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee last year. Governor Cuomo created the commission after numerous reports surfaced of new Yorkers being without power for excessive amounts of time following Hurricane sandy striking the state in late October. Spokesman for downstate utilities Con Ed and LIPA conformed receipt of the subpoenas, NYSEG officials have not publicly commented if they received one.

On Saturday November 24th, state police at Oneonta, Richfield Springs and Sidney conducted an Underage Drinking Enforcement detail throughout Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties. The detail checked 12 local establishments located in Afton, Bainbridge, Sidney and Unadilla for compliance with the prohibition of the sale of alcoholic beverages to underage persons. The detail found all 12 of the stores checked in compliance.

Oneonta state Troopers arrested 34-year-old Brian Hassick of Cooperstown, and 35-year-old Cheryl Rifenbark of Westford, for Possession of a Forged Instrument. Hassick and Rifenbark were arraigned in the Town of Westford Court and remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility in lieu of $500 cash bail each.

State Troopers arrested 31-year-old Matthew Lamberg of Binghamton, for 3rd degree Assault on an outstanding Warrant issued by the City of Binghamton Court. Lamberg was arraigned and remanded to the Broome County Jail.

P.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-21-12
The State Labor Department today released local area unemployment rates for October 2012. State wide, the unemployment rate fell from 8.9 % to 8.7% in the southern tier, the rate was recorded as 8.3% for the month of October, down 2 tenths form September’s unemployment rate.

19-year-old Darren VanDeusen of Mount Vision was convicted in Otsego county court on a charge of first-degree criminal sexual act for sodomizing a 10-year-old girl in Milford. State police arrested VanDeusen last December following an investigation when the victim complained to her parents about the attack; VanDeusen has been remanded to Otsego County Correctional Facility without bail.

State troopers conducted an Underage Drinking Enforcement detail at 19 establishments. 16 of the 19 stores were in compliance, 3 people were charged with the Prohibited Sale of an Alcoholic Beverage, 45 year old Lori Croft in Kirkwood, 57 year old, Saini Sing in Conklin, and 19 year old Adam Simmons in Johnson city. All 3 were issued appearance tickets for court action at a later date.