WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 12-29-25

The Norwich Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 102 Gilmore Lane just south of the Walmart Saturday Night at about 6:12 PM, Norwich Fire Chief Jan Papelino explains:

(Chief Jan Papelino 12-29-25)

Norwich Firefighters were assisted by the Oxford, North Norwich and Sherburne Fire Departments, Chenango County Office of Emergency Services, NYSEG, Norwich Water Department, Chenango County Sheriff's Office.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 12-24-25

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 2 people on a variety of felony charge. On December 15th, deputies responded to a burglary complaint in the Town of Binghamton, they found fresh footprints in the snow, signs of a break-in and smoke billowing from inside the house due to an active fire. State Police & Binghamton Fire Department responded, Deputies followed footprints and found evidence of stolen items, they used a drone to & located 37 year old Anthony Storti of Conklin, who was found to be in possession of narcotics, the investigation uncovered that Storti had been in the residence, left a vape behind and he set a fire inside. 24 year old Allyson Russell of Endicott, was identified as an accomplice in the burglary and arson. Both were charged with a host of felonies including Burglary, Arson criminal possession of a weapon, Grand Larceny & criminal possession of a controlled substance, they face court action shortly.

Trout Creek Fire Department responded at about 11:20 Tuesday morning for a tractor trailer into a house. Nobody was home at the residence and that the driver of the truck was not injured. Masonville Volunteer Fire Department, State DOT, State Police, Delaware County Sheriff's Office, NYSEG and a code enforcement officer also responded, State Highway 206 was closed, All units were back in service around 3:30 PM.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced more than $463 million has been awarded statewide through the State's Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Long Island, the Mohawk Valley, New York City and the Southern Tier were chosen as winners of the inaugural $150 million Advancing Collaboration for High-impact Initiatives for Economic Visions & Expansion competition, The Southern Tier was awarded more than $26.4 million to support 27 projects.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 12-11-25

A Federal Court Jury returned a guilty verdict against ANTHONY WALLACE of the Bronx, for kidnapping a minor, coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sex, transportation of a minor across state lines to engage in illegal sex, and possession and production of child pornography. In March 2024, Wallace met a 15-year-old girl in Binghamton, he subjected the Minor Victim to escalating physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, forced her to disguise her appearance by dyeing her hair and wearing a mask, gave the Minor Victim methamphetamine and marijuana, & created child pornography of the Minor Victim, in Binghamton, which was found on his phone. Wallace later brought the victim across State Lines and then back to his Bronx apartment where he assaulted & raped her, she escaped the apartment & contacted police. Wallace faces multiple lengthy jail terms for the convictions.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the award of more than $32 million to help local governments enhance safety on their roads by reducing instances of vehicles inadvertently straying from their lanes and lessening the severity of crashes. The funding is part of the State DOT's “Safe System” approach toward zero highway deaths and will support roadway improvements; Locally, in Otsego County, the Towns of Hartwick and Middlefield, will receive $700,000 to install guide rail on County Road 11. In New York State, 44 percent of crash fatalities occur when a vehicle departs from its lane.

The Delaware County Business Alliance is now accepting applications for the 2026 Leaderful Delaware Emerging Leaders Program, designed for business and community leaders who are interested in becoming more engaged in shaping the region's future. The 5-session program dates are February 12, March 12, April 9, May 14, and June 11, and will be conducted by former Alliance President Ray Pucci. More information is available at 1-607-746-2281.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-24-25

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced the indictment of 18 year old James Tinebra of Plainview, A Delaware County Grand Jury indicted Tinebra for Burglary & Grand Larceny for stealing a State Police Vehicle from a repair shop in Davenport on November 5th at about 3:45 AM. Tinebra was located later in the day by the Schodack Police Department in Rensselaer County, where he is also facing separate charges.

Last week was Crash Responder Safety Week, and State Troopers joined the State DOT to focus on Move Over Law violations. Troopers from the Troop C Traffic Incident Management Unit teamed up with DOT crews on I-81 in Cortland County and I-88 in the town of Otego. On November 20th, Troopers issued 30 tickets on I-81 in Cortland County and 9 tickets on I-88 in the town of Otego, on November 21, Troopers issued 39 tickets on I-81 in Cortland County. New York State implemented the Move Over Law in 2010 to reduce crashes involving emergency responders stopped along the roadway. The law later expanded to include hazard vehicles, tow trucks, and highway workers. In 2023, the law expanded again, requiring drivers to slow down and move over for any vehicle stopped on the roadway.

State DEC announced more than $1.72 million in grants to 6 land trusts for 9 projects that help conserve local forests. The land trusts will purchase new conservation easements that will protect air and water quality, preserve wildlife habitat and biodiversity, support sustainable forest management, and increase outdoor recreation opportunities for the public. Locally, the Otsego Land Trust, will get $54,250 to purchase a conservation easement on the 41-acre Burr Forest property in the town of Westford, adjacent to Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park. The easement property is 90 percent forested, and includes wetlands and hemlock stands, along with large concentrations of native plants.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $97.4 million in new funding is available for active transportation-related projects and programs that support the advancement of healthy lifestyles across New York State. Local Governments, Transit Agencies, Public Land Agencies, Tribal Governments are eligible, the State Department of Transportation will be accepting applications for this funding opportunity through March 12th 2026. The application is available at dot.ny.gov.

P.M. NEWS Thursday 11-6-25

State Police have identified the woman who drive into a pong in Richfield Springs earlier this week as 39 year old Rachel Galesky of Richfield Springs. State Police were dispatched Tuesday Morning to the site of a pond at Skinner Road & US Route 20 after a passerby called 911 after observing what appeared to be a portion of a vehicle submerged in the pond. Troopers located the vehicle and discovered Galesky inside, they determined that she failed to stop at a stop sign and drove into the pond, The investigation is continuing.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 11-6-25

An 18-year-old male from Plainview is in custody after stealing a marked New York State Police patrol vehicle. Wednesday morning, Oneonta Troopers were notified of a burglary that occurred overnight at Accurate Auto and Truck Repair LLC in Davenport, where a State Police patrol vehicle that had been undergoing service & was taken from the premises. No weapons were inside the car at the time it was taken. The vehicle was located on I- 90 in Schodack, Rensselaer County, Troopers located the 18-year-old male inside and took him into custody without incident. The individual was arraigned in the Town of Schodack Court and charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, He was turned over to investigators from Troop C, where he was additionally charged with Burglary and Grand Larceny, The investigation remains ongoing.

State Police responded to Wednesday afternoon to State Highway 17 in the town of Hancock for a report of a crash in a work zone. An investigation revealed that a Toyota Corolla, operated by 90 year old Mohamed Rawoof of Mahwah, New Jersey struck a State DOT skid steer operated by a DOT employee in the left lane of a marked construction zone. Both Rawoof and the DOT employee were transported to Wilson Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

State Police responded to I-88 in Afton for a crash involving a Department of Transportation vehicle and a pick-up truck. Troopers learned that a crew of 7 DOT workers were completing pothole repairs along the east bound lanes of I-88, an attenuator truck in the right lane warned drivers that there was roadwork ahead and that the right lane was closed, while a second attenuator truck was in the vicinity of the crew members. A Pick-up truck pulling an enclosed trailer with picnic tables crashed into rear of the second attenuator truck, The DOT worker that was operating the attenuator and the 20-year-old operator of the pick-up truck were both transported to Wilson Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Both eastbound lanes were closed during the removal of the vehicles. Troopers were assisted by Afton Fire, Bainbridge Fire, Sidney Ambulance.

State Police responded to South Hall of the SUNY Morrisville Campus Monday afternoon at 3:45 pm, they found a 20-year-old male, who was not a student, with a gunshot wound to the neck. The victim was transported to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, No other injuries were reported and a suspect has not been located, the investigation is continuing. Normal class schedules resumed this morning.

54 year old Donald Lane of Oneonta, was arrested Sunday for Sex Offender Failure to Update Change of Address following an investigation in to a sex offender failing to abide by restrictions by the State Sex Offender Registry. Lane is a level 2 sex offender, he failed to make the proper notifications regarding an address change, he also had a prior conviction of the failing to update the Sex Offender Registry, he was located in the City of Oneonta by deputies and taken in to custody following a brief foot pursuit, he was lodged him in the Otsego County Correctional Facility to Arraignment.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $135 million was made available to help communities across the State affordably undertake critical water and sewer infrastructure improvement projects. Locally, the City of Oneonta will receive $5.3 million in federal grant and low-cost financing for improvements at the wastewater treatment plant.

40 year old Joseph Brady of Binghamton was convicted in Broome County Court of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, he entered his plea of guilty Wednesday in Broome County Court in exchange for an 8 year sentence in State Prison, followed by 5 years of post-release supervision. Brady was arrested on June 9, by the Broome County Special Investigations Unit following an investigation, Sentencing is scheduled for January 29, 2026, in Broome County Court.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 10-30-25

Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare for a storm system forecast to bring widespread rain and gusty winds into Friday for parts of the Southern Tier, Western New York, Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island regions. Agency Preparations are underway for the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the State DOT, DEC, the State Police and the utility companies, For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, For safety tips, go to dhses.ny.gov/safety.

State Police & Law Enforcement agencies around the state have increased patrols to combat impaired & reckless Driving through Halloween through this Friday. Last year over 46,000 tickets were written by Police during the Halloween Enforcement Period.

State Forest Rangers responded to Hancock Sunday following the report of 2 hikers from Brooklyn who were lost off trail at Jensen’s Ledges. Forest Rangers spoke with the lost individuals by phone and were able to obtain their coordinates. Rangers found the hikers in about 2 hours Sunday evening and assisted them back to their vehicle. Officials remind hikers that before entering the backcountry, visit the DEC's Hike Smart NY, Adirondack Backcountry Information, and Catskill Backcountry Information webpages for more information. Hikers should also put the Forest Rangers hotline in their phone, the number is 833-NYS-RANGERS, 911 can also be used, more information is available at dec.ny.gov.

The State DOT will be closing Bridge 10, Sherwood Road over the West Branch of the Delaware River in the town of Delhi, to through traffic today starting at 9:00 AM to inspect the bridge. The bridge will be re-opened as soon as inspection is complete. The traveling public should use alternate routes.

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 10-20-25

Bradley Law of Harpursville has officially been granted parole, following a recent hearing by the State Parole Board, he was convicted of criminal possession of a firearm and attempted leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident after striking & killing 13-year-old Brennan Loveless while he was riding a bicycle in Sanitaria Springs on January 1st, 2023, and for fleeing the scene, Law also reported that he hit a deer with his truck the next day to cover up the damage to his truck from the Loveless incident. Law was also charged following an unrelated domestic dispute, he was sentenced to 2 2/3 to to 8 years in prison, and will be released to parole supervision in January.

A Trial of 3 former State Corrections officer accused of participating in the killing of Robert Brooks last December in the Marcy Correctional Facility concluded today. David Kingsley was found guilty of 2nd degree murder & 1st degree Manslaughter, however Nicholas Kieffer & Matthew Galliher were was found not guilty for Murder, Manslaughter, Gang Assault, Kinglsey faces sentencing on December 15th, He faces 25 years to life in prison.

Plans are moving forward for the new Stewart's Shops coming to downtown Sidney, Village Mayor Ray Baker explains:

(Ray Baker 10-20-25)

Stewart's is headquartered in Ballston Spa with over 350 locations In New York State.

New York's Republican State Committee on Friday suspended a Young Republican organization following the release of a group chat that included jokes about rape and flippant commentary on gas chambers. New York's Republican committee said its leaders had voted unanimously to suspend the authorization of the New York State Young Republicans to operate at a statewide level.

The State DOT is advising motorists that beginning today, between the weeknight hours of 7 pm. and 6 am., I- 81 southbound will be reduced to one lane starting at Exit 13; and State Route 17 eastbound will be reduced to one lane starting at Exit 72. The lane reductions will continue for approximately 2 weeks for pavement repairs, For more information, visit 511NY.org or the 511NY mobile app.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-10-25

State Police responded to a 3 vehicle crash on State Route 12 in the town of Greene, where a Mazda driven by 22 year old Makayla Cummings of Utica, was traveling south on State Route 12, when she crossed into the opposing lane, striking a Ford Focus head-on, driven by 44 year old Angel Kiekel of Nineveh. Cummings continued off the roadway and struck a parked Honda Civic, then she struck the exterior of a residence. Cummings & Keikel were both transported to Wilson Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, Cummings faces charges for the incident.

30 year old Karl Calhoun pleaded guilty in Broome County Court to Attempted Rape & Criminal Possession of a Weapon. On August 24th, Calhoun forcibly attacked a female, struck her multiple times, strangled her, and forcibly removed her clothing, she was able to resist the attack and escape to safety, the incident was captured on video surveillance, on September 5th, Vestal Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Calhoun, a search uncovered a loaded pistol with an extended magazine containing 9 live rounds, Calhoun will be sentenced to 10 years in state prison for Attempted Rape and 7 years for Criminal Possession of a Weapon, the sentences will run concurrently, and Calhoun will be required to register as a sex offender and an Order of Protection will remain in effect.

State Police are reminding the public to be aware of phone scams that tell a victim to withdraw large sums of money or buy gold bars to “protect their assets”. Scammers will call asking if the victim made a large purchase on Amazon, if they did not, the caller is told that their identity and social security number have been stolen, they are “transferred” to someone who claims to be from a credit union or a bank and advises that the victim to withdraw their money or purchase gold bars so that it can be held for “safe keeping”. The scammers will send a “courier” to collect the money or gold bars. State Police BCI announced the arrest of 41 year old Akash Thakkar of Hiawatha, New Jersey for Grand Larceny for a June 2024 larceny where scammers swindled $500,000 in gold bars, Troopers were able to identify Thakkar as the man who picked up the gold bars, he was processed & was turned over to the Tompkins County Jail for Arraignment.

A.M. NEWS Friday 10-10-25

Delhi Police Department arrested 23 year old Xavier Calderon of New City on 2 counts of Criminal Trespass, on September 27th Calderon allegedly broke into a residence and when confronted by the occupants, claimed he was retrieving property he had left there the previous night, the investigation revealed that Calderon had been inside the residence on September 26, when the tenants were away, and that he had slept in one of the bedrooms without permission. The tenants reported that they do not know Calderon and had never authorized him to be inside the home. Calderon was taken into custody, was processed and transported to for arraignment, where a Temporary Order of Protection was issued.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal motor vehicle accident on I-81 in the City of Binghamton Thursday morning. Broome County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol and emergency personnel responded to a 3-car accident on I-81 south at the off ramp of Exit 12, they found a U-Haul truck on fire with the driver entrapped in the vehicle, they attempted to extinguish the flames, the U-Haul operator was extricated and transported to Wilson Medical Center, but was was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The U-Haul was towing a vehicle, after merging from Route 17 and was approaching the off ramp of Exit 12 when an SUV attempted to merge across several lanes and struck the U-Haul, causing the operator to lose control and collide with a DOT attenuator truck. The identity of the deceased will be released pending notification of next of kin.

The State DOT announced that I-88 westbound will be closed near Exit 8 in Bainbridge for pavement repairs, today from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Drivers should follow the posted detours, utilizing the off-ramp at Exit 8, then crossing State Route 206 to the ensuing on-ramp, back onto Interstate 88 westbound. Flaggers will be stationed at the intersection to control traffic.

State Police issued 109 tickets during a four-hour long Operation Hard Hat detail within a work zone on Interstate 81 in the town of Chenango Thursday. The detail was a combined effort with the State Police and the Broome County Sheriff’s Department, Crews from the DOT were repairing the bridge rail over Front Street. The area is a 55mph zone and just the left lane was closed, while two others were still open to accommodate traffic. Troopers charged 27 for using cell phones while driving, 36 for speeding, 27 for no seat belt, 19 other cvarious tickets were issued.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office, Department of Health & The Governor's Traffic Safety Committee will host a Child Car Seat Safety Check Saturday at the Oneonta Home Depot on State Highway 28 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Certified Technicians will make sure that seats are installed properly & answer questionb particicpants in the Saturday event.

State Police at Troop C have scheduled more child’s car seat safety checks, one on August 4, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at the Windsor Diner, August 6, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at The Pantheon on State Route 79 in Harpursville, State Police are teaming up with the Broome County District Attorney’s Office at these events, they will be hosting a bike helmet give away. More information is available at the Troop “C” Traffic Division at (607)561-7400.

The State Comptroller's Office of Unclaimed Funds returns over $2 million in lost money every day, which can come from utility deposits, trust funds, old bank accounts, uncashed checks or unused gift cards. To further assist individuals in claiming their lost funds, staff members will attend community events to provide information and assistance with the search process, including on August 7th from 9:30 am. to 4:00 pm. with the Chenango County Office of the Aging tent at the Chenango County Fair Grounds in Norwich. Residents who cannot make it to an in-person event can call 1-800-221-9311 or go to osc.ny.gov/unclaimed-funds.

The Binghamton Rumble Ponies game tonight has been postponed due to the thunderstorms in the region, the game will be made up as part of a doubleheader on Saturday at Mirabito Stadium.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 7-31-25

Troopers from the Troop “C” Traffic Incident Management Unit partnered with the DOT for an Operation Hard Hat enforcement detail on I-86/State Route 17 east where crews were completing bridge work in the town of Vestal. State Police issued 54 total citations, 20 for using cellphones, 16 for speeding, 11 for no seat-belt, 2 for improper child restraints.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held today in Hamden from 9 am. - 2 pm., at Delaware Opportunities State Route 10, to donate blood, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS.

State tax receipts totaled $33.2 billion through the first quarter of State Fiscal Year, about $580.5 million higher than the most recent Division of the Budget estimates. State tax collections were also $3.3 billion higher than last year's 1st quarter, according to State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Personal income tax receipts totaled $19.2 billion, also higher than original estimates. The Full Report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

State Police arrested 34 year old Kyle Packer of Oneonta on an arrest warrant for Burglary, Criminal Contempt, Unlawful Fleeing a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, and Obstructing Governmental Administration. On June 12, Packer was involved in a domestic dispute in Edmeston where he violated an order of protection, unlawfully entered a home and struck a victim & left prior to the Trooper’s arrival. Troopers located Packer on June 24 in the town of New Berlin, where he fled on tractor into a wooded area. A Trooper observed Packer Tuesday in the town of Columbia, he was taken into custody and was processed then transported to the Otsego County Jail for Arraignment.

The State Department of Transportation announced the exit 8 off-ramp from Interstate 88 West to State Route 206 in Bainbridge will be closed today for pavement repairs, from 8 am. to 2 pm. Drivers should follow the posted detour route using Exit 9, State Route 8 Northbound to State Route 7 Westbound to State Route 206.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-10-25

State Police are targeting speeding and aggressive drivers during a special week-long traffic enforcement initiative now underway through this Sunday, as Speeding is a contributing factor in nearly 1/3rd of all fatal crashes in New York State. Last year, Troopers issued 22,476 total traffic tickets, including 11,175 for speeding and 592 for violations of the Move Over law, During this “Speed Week” enforcement period, Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and unmarked vehicles as part of the operation.

The Otsego County Conservation Association is accepting nominations for its 2025 Conservationist of the Year Award, which honors outstanding contributions to environmental protection, preservation, and education in Otsego County. The award recognizes an individual, group, organization, or business , the award will be presented during OCCA's Annual Dinner on August 24 at Creekside Station in Hartwick. The deadline for nominations is July 18.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-10-25

The State Senate approved a bill Monday that would allow terminally ill people die on their own terms, it would allow a person with an incurable illness to be prescribed life-ending drugs if he or she requests the medication and gets approval from 2 physicians, the bill goes to Governor Hochul for approval.

State DOT Crews responded to the report of embankment slide on I-88 westbound near exits 16 and 17. DOT reports that about 60 to 80 feet of unpaved shoulder backup material at the pavement edge has slid into the ditched median, the left lane has been blocked under DOT supervision and will conduct assessments for repairs. Motorists can check 511 for the latest conditions there.

30 year old Joseph Osei of Canada was convicted in US District Court for 4 counts of mail fraud, 1 count of access device fraud, and 2 counts of aggravated identity theft for fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 pandemic-related unemployment insurance benefits from New York State using stolen identities. Jurors deliberated for less than 2 hours before returning a guilty verdict on all counts, from August through November 2020, Osei fraudulently obtained unemployment insurance benefits from the State Department of Labor worth more than $100,000, he also defrauded agencies in California, Rhode Island, and Arizona using stolen identities. Sentencing is scheduled for September 23rd, the mail fraud convictions carry a maximum term of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. The access device fraud conviction carries a maximum term of imprisonment of up to 15 years.

Governor Hochul announced the launch of I LOVE NY's new summer tourism and travel campaign, to promote visitation to the State's 11 diverse vacation regions. Tourism & Agriculture remain as the State's top 2 industries, more information is available at iloveny.com/summer.

The Sidney Rotary Club announced that they will hold their 4th annual Golf Tournament on June 12th at the Sidney Golf & Country Club. More information is available by emailing to Office@sidneyunitedway.org.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 5-28-25

The State Department of Transportation announced that Phase I Detours will begin for the Roundabout Project in the City of Oneonta, on Monday, June 2nd and will be continuing for approximately 3 months, weather permitting. Access to the intersection will only be available from Lettis Highway northbound to Main Street eastbound and from Main Street eastbound to Lettis Highway southbound. Motorists are urged to follow separate signed detours for cars and trucks. Passenger vehicles traveling on Main Street will be detoured onto Otsego Street, Fair Street and Grand Street around the construction. Find full detour maps at the Oneonta Roundabout project website. dot.ny.gov/oneontaroundabout

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.

63 year old Daniel Schultz of Margaretville was sentenced to 6 months in the Delaware County Correctional Facility to be followed by 3 years of a conditional discharge for the crime of Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a Child in the Vehicle, commonly known as Leandra’s Law. On August 10, 2024, a State Trooper observed a pickup truck operated by Daniel Schultz, Schultz’s license had previously been revoked, a traffic stop was initiated, Schultz stopped the vehicle, a passenger quickly exited the truck, who was under the age of 16. Schultz failed sobriety testing & was charged with several crimes, Schultz pleaded guilty, Schultz was sentenced in Delaware County Court last week, his license was revoked, and if he obtains a license, he will need to install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owns or operates. If he violates any condition of his conditional discharge, he could be re-sentenced to 1 1/3 to 4 years in state prison.

School Budget votes will be held tomorrow across the state, Sidney Central School District Superintendent Eben Bullock told WCDO news about their proposed budget:

(Eben Bullock 5-19-25)

The Unatego School District is also seeking approval on a new budget, Superintendent Dr. Dave Richards explains:

(Dr. Dave Richards 5-19-25)

School Districts are also looking to fill Board of Education Seats, and in some cases capital projects and/or buss purchases around the state tomorrow.

The City of Oneonta announced a Traffic Alert regarding the Lettis Highway Lane Closures. Starting today, motorists can expect northbound lane closures on Lettis Highway (Route 23) between Fair Street and Main Street for approximately two weeks while drainage work is underway as part of State DOT's Oneonta Roundabout project. Drivers are reminded to slow down in work zones and obey all traffic control devices. Traffic updates can be found at 511, visiting 511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

Residents in Broome, Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties have access to an expanded range of transportation services, thanks to the Getthere program, providing rides to medical appointments,emergency food access, and employment. Getthere is a program of the Rural Health Network of South Central New York, more information is available at (855) 373-4040 or rhnscny.org.

A.M. NEWS Monday 5-19-25

State Police is enhancing its approach to investigating animal cruelty through a new partnership with the State Animal Protection Federation. More than 200 Troopers and Investigators will receive advanced instruction on identifying and responding to animal cruelty cases so that they will be better equipped to detect, investigate, and document cruelty cases, Enhance collaboration with local law enforcement, animal welfare organizations, and prosecutors and it will allow for a more efficient response to these complex investigations.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-25-25

Norwich City Police arrested 31 year old Brennon Bennett of Norwich for Failure to register as a sex offender and on a parole violation. Bennett is a Level 3 Sex Offender, who is accused of using a fraudulent address with the Norwich Police Department, where he is required to check in on a regular basis, in compliance with State Parole and Sex Offender Regulations. Bennett was convicted of 1st degree Attempted Rape in 2017, he was released from the jail & was Paroled in December. Bennett was arraigned at CAP Court and held on without bail due to prior felony convictions.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 24 year old Amber Renwick of Otego, for 3 counts of Promotion of a Sexual Performance by a Child, 2 counts of Possession of a Sexual Performance by a Child plus Sexual Misconduct, following an investigation in to a cyber tip received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In February of 2025, investigators received information from the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce of child sexual abuse material being disseminated from a Kik online social media account, Renwick did possess and send the child sexual abuse material to other users. The Sheriff’s Office & State Police Computer Crimes Unit executed a search warrant & she was taken in to custody, was processed and was being held for Arraignment. The investigation is on-going and additional charges are pending.

Recruit New York events are being held around the state to assist in Fire Departments & Emergency squads in holding open houses, in the hope of recruiting new members, Roger Barnhart of the Bainbridge Fire Department told WCDO News about a few local events on Saturday

(Roger Barnhart 4-25-25)

Masonville Fire Chief Matt Jones told WCDO about their event on Sunday:

(Matt Jones 4-25-25)

More information about participating fire department can be found at recruitny.org.

The Chenango County Historical Society will host an unveiling this morning of the recently refurbished “special edition” marker at Rogers Environmental Education Center at 10:45 am. The “Game Farm” plaque is situated along Route 80 in the town of Sherburne, the unveiling is being held on National Historic Marker Day to honor the State DOT who refurbished the sign, for more information, go to ChenangoHistorical.org.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-22-25

Chobani announced plans to build another plant in New York State, which will be a $1.2 billion facility Rome’s Griffiss Business and Technology Park. The Project would add another 1000 jobs in addition to the 1100 jobs at the South Edmeston & Norwich facilities. Chobani also employs 1,100 people at a yogurt plant in Twin Falls, Idaho, and they recently announced an expansion in Twin Falls that is expected to create a minimum of 160 new jobs.

Recruit New York events are coming up this weekend around the state, where area Fire Departments & emergency squads are looking to add to their ranks, Assemblyman Joe Angelino still volunteers with the Norwich Fire Department, he told WCDO News that the fire departments need younger members, in order to continue to provide quality service:

(Angelino 4-22-25)

WCDO News spoke with Joe Angelino & Roger Barnhart of the Bainbridge Fire Department about local companies participating in the recruit New York weekend, that full interview can be heard Thursday evening following the 6:00 PM news. more information is available at recruitny.org.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 4-22-25

State Police Troop “C” Traffic Incident Management Unit partnered up with the DOT for an Operation Hard Hat enforcement detail in Kirkwood. DOT crews were out on Interstate 81 north completing bridge work, The work zone where the detail was held had signage reminding motorists that it’s a work zone with a lowered speed limit and that one of three lanes was shut down, In about four hours, 69 tickets were issued: 52 for speeding, 11 for cell phone us & 1 failure to move over

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.

State Police at Troop C in Sidney announced that 9 people were arrested for DWI or related charges over the Superbowl Weekend initiative. In New York State slightly more than 30% of the fatal crashes are alcohol related. In New York State, a driver's ability to operate a motor vehicle may be considered legally impaired if their BAC exceeds 0.05% & there are legally intoxicated if their BAC is 0.08% or greater. In a recent study, 16% of weekend nighttime drivers tested positive for illicit drugs.

The State DOT is alerting motorists that beginning this Thursday, the Exit 83 off ramp from westbound State Route 17 to Broome County Route 28 in the Town of Sanford will be closed. The closure is necessary to facilitate a culvert replacement and is expected to last until mid-March, weather permitting. Motorists should follow the posted detours, Motorists are urged to slow down in work zones as fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone.

The State DEC announced that dates for the 34th annual Free Fishing Days program, which will be this Saturday & Sunday February 15 and 16, plus June 28 and 29, September 27 and November 11. While fishing during these days is free, all other regulations remain in effect. Outside of these free days, anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license to fish, more information is available at dec.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-11-25

Binghamton Police Department Detective Bureau are attempting to locate 50-year-old Scott Mitchell of Binghamton in connection with the murders of 58 year old Daniel McCloe and 55 year old Marshall VanOven, who were reported missing February 3, On February 5, both men were found dead at a private residence in Binghamton, the Autopsies determined the cause of death was murder. Mitchell's vehicle was found days later in South Carolina, Anyone with information should call the Binghamton Police Detective Bureau at (607)772-7080.

Walton Fire and EMS Responded Tuesday Night at about 7:00 PM to a tractor trailer rollover approximately 2 miles North of the Village on State Highway 10. A fully loaded milk tanker carrying 38,000 pounds of milk had collided with guardrails and rolled onto its side, a NYSEG pole was broken and live wires were on the ground initially preventing responders from getting to the incident and driver. NYSEG responded and cleared the lives wires allowing safe access to the scene. The driver extricated himself from the cab of the truck through a window with assistance from a nearby homeowner, he was assessed by Walton EMS and transported to Delaware Valley Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Traffic on State Highway 10 was diverted while the scene was cleared, the State DOT, DEC spill response, Delaware County Sheriffs Office and Delhi Fire Department assisted, the road reopened to all traffic and All units were back in service at 11:45 pm

The 216th New York State Police Academy Graduation, will be held tomorrow at 11:00 AM at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center, in Albany. 176 new Troopers will be honored for completing the 216th session of the Basic School of the State Police Academy, the new Troopers will be assigned to their new troops and will report for duty to begin their career with the State Police.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 2-5-25

The State Legislature in back at session working on legislation & the state budget proposal. Local Assemblyman Joe Angelino told WCDO News what committee assignments he has this session:

(Joe Angelino 2-5-25)

Angelino said that the assignments are the same as last year, the first 2 he mentioned do not forward legislation, but Police the legislature, Angelino of course spent 30 years with the Norwich police Department, rising to chief, before retiring & running for the State Assembly.

The State DEC announced Burn bans will be in effect again this year, from March 16th Until May 14, residents may not burn brush due to the continued increased risk of wildfires. DEC Officials report that Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State, this year's burn ban follows unprecedented wildfires in the Catskills late last year, along with a prolonged dry weather pattern and a fairly mild winter in a large portion of the state, there are a few exception, those can be found at dec.ny.gov.

WCDO Sports Director Nate Lull traveled to Binghamton on Saturday to cover the Division-1 Binghamton University Women's Basketball team hosting U-Albany. Hancock alumna Laycee Drake plays for Albany and always has great support from local fans when her team plays close to home. Nate caught up with Laycee after the game to ask her what it's like to play in front of family and friends:

Laycee 1

Laycee transferred to U-Albany this year after playing 3 years at a Division-1 U-M-B-C college near Baltimore, Maryland. Her Albany team is currently 18 and 4 this season and she is really enjoying the success of her new program:

Laycee 2

U-Albany defeated Binghamton 65-54 on Saturday. For more information on Laycee and her team you can visit u albany sports dot com