WCDO Radio News

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 6-30-26

With extreme heat forecast in the Tri-County Region over the next few days, Cooling stations will be open at various location, in Delaware County, cooling stations will be at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, the Andes Public Library, other locations may be announced, In Chenango County, designated emergency cooling centers include the Guernsey Memorial Library at 3 Court Street, in Norwich, the Sherburne Public Library, more information may be available from the Chenango County Clerk's Office. IN Otsego County, cooling centers include the Southside Mall, The Foxcare Center as well as the greater Plains & Wilber Pools in Oneonta or the Clark Sport Center in Cooperstown, more information is available at the State Department of Health

35 Year old Ciera Washington of the Bronx pleaded guilty in US District Court to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and aggravated identity theft. Washington admitted that from April 2023 through October 2024, she worked with 2 others to steal the personal information of Medicaid beneficiaries and use that information to fraudulently obtain prescription medications from pharmacies throughout New York State & the Northeastern States, which caused a loss of nearly $4 million to the Medicaid program and tens of thousands of dollars to pharmacies. Washington agreed to forfeit over $400,000 in proceeds from her crimes and to consent to an order of restitution for the losses they caused. Washington faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the fraud count and a mandatory term of 2 years on the aggravated identity theft count, which must run consecutively, when sentenced in October in Federal Court, She also faces a term of supervised release of up to 3 years.

A community-wide conversation about housing insecurity and homelessness will take center stage in Norwich next month, as leaders come together to host A Conference on Housing and Belonging. The event will take place from 9:30 am. to 2 pm. on Friday, July 17 in the Norwich High School Auditorium. The conference is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended but not required. For more information or to register, contact AnnMarie Smith, Assistant Director of Housing Services, Catholic Charities of Chenango County at (607) 334-8244, ext. 242, or via email at amsmith@ccofcc.com.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 3-19-26

46 year old Arthur Cotten of Sidney, pleaded guilty to Reckless Endangerment & resisting Arrest in Delaware County Court, he was appearing for a conference on a pending indictment, he decided to pleaded guilty to the charges, relating to an incident on July 19, 2025, in the Village of Sidney, where he attempted to light himself on fire with gasoline in a garage near a propane tank, Sidney Police Officers Royce Terry and Jenna Nordberg, managed to get the fire extinguished without any person or property being seriously harmed. Cotten will be sentenced on April 28th

31 year old Mathew Hall of Columbia, South Carolina, was sentenced in Broome County to 10 years in state prison, followed by 10 years of post-release supervision, and will be required to register as a sex offender, and a no-contact order of protection was issued for the victim. Hall was found guilty of rape after a Jury Trial in December from a sexual assault that occurred in the City of Binghamton in October 2024, where Hall engaged in sexual contact with a person who was incapable of consent due to being physically helpless.

Another former corrections officer has pleaded guilty in the case connected to the beating death of Marcy Correctional Facility inmate Robert Brooks in December of 2024. Robert Kessler entered his plea in Oneida County Court, to a gang assault charge as part of a plea bargain deal in which he testified against his former colleagues David Kingsley, Nicholas Kieffer and Mathew Galliher. Kessler is scheduled to be sentenced to 4 years in State prison on May 14th.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that 7 villages were designated in fiscal stress under his office's Fiscal Stress Monitoring System for their fiscal year ending in 2025. DiNapoli's office evaluates municipalities & school district each year for fiscal stress, no villages in the Tri-County Region were on the list this year. The report can be found at osc.ny.gov.

A.M. NEWS Thursday 3-19-26

Delaware County DA Shawn Smith announced that the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the Delaware County County Court conviction of Joshua Condon that resulted in a 20 year prison term & 10 years old post release supervision. Condon appealed the sentence for Criminal Sexual Act for abusing an 8 year old child, but after losing the appeal, Condon's original sentence will stand.

37 year old Michael Brutvan of Binghamton, pleaded guilty to Murder in the Second Degree in Broome County Court and will serve a sentence of 17 Years to Life in a New York State Correctional Facility. On May 13, 2025, the Binghamton Police Department was dispatched to the Salvation Army located at 131 Washington Street for a report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers located a male inside the establishment suffering from stab wounds to the shoulder and neck. The victim was later pronounced deceased. Sentencing is scheduled for June 22, 2026, in Broome County Court.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 1-20-26

Governor Hochul unveiled the Executive Budget proposal this afternoon in Albany with only a .7% increase over last years budget, due to a variety of factors:

(Hochul 1-20-26)

State Budget Director Blake Washington reported that there was a special emphasis on funding for Agriculture:

(Blake Washington 1-20-26)

Lawmakers have until April 1st to get the state budget passed in time for the beginning of the next Fiscal Year.

State Police arrested 26 year old Clayton Carley & 60 year old Jeffrey Carley of Homer on a variety of charges for Criminal Possession of controlled substances & firearms. In August 2024, State Police responded to a burglary complaint involving the larceny of a dirt bike in Oswego County, last week it was for sale on Facebook Marketplace by Clayton Carley, Investigators interviewed him, he stated the dirt bike had been sold. Troopers executed a search warrant the Carley residence and retrieved handguns, assault weapons, A loaded shotgun, high-capacity ammunition feeding devices, materials for growing & processing cannabis, Cash in excess of $5,000 & A stolen 2024 motorcycle. Both men were processed & were transported to the Cortland County Jail for Centralized Arraignment.

The National Digital Inclusion Alliance named Chenango County as a 2025 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer, recognizing the County’s efforts to close the digital divide, Chenango County Planning Director Shane Butler explains:

(Shane Butler 1-20-26)

Butler said that The Trailblazer program identifies seven categories of current best practices. Each applicant’s materials are verified for accuracy, assessed for community impact, and posted in an interactive map and searchable database on NDIA’s website. More information is available chenangocountyny.gov or digitalinclusion.org.

35 year old Benjamin Keeney of Binghamton, was sentenced today in Broome County Court to 4 years in State Prison following his conviction for Criminal Contempt. Keeney violated an Order of Protection by going to the victim’s home. The investigation was conducted by the Binghamton Police Department.

2025 Election deadlines are approaching, the voter registration deadline is October 25th, plus early mail and absentee ballot request deadline is October 25th, the in person requests must be received no later than November 3rd,. more information is available by contacting your County Board of Elections office.

Commerce Chenango will have a Business After Hours Event today at Preferred Mutual Insurance in New Berlin from 4:30 to 6:00 PM, more information is available at commercechenango.com

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 10-22-25

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced the arrest of 51 year old David Gensler of Delhi, for Use of a Child less than 17 Years of Age in a Sexual Performance, Disseminating Indecent Materials to Minors, Luring a Child into a Vehicle/Building to Commit a Crime, and Disseminating Indecent Materials to Minors as a Sexually Motivated Felony. A felony preliminary hearing was held in the Town of Delhi Court on Monday, Gensler was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility without bail, pending action of the Grand Jury. The investigation is ongoing, anyone with additional information should contact the State Police at 607-432-3211.

Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested 36 year old Cody Borawa of Afton for Criminal Contempt and Stalking, for allegedly attempting to contact and interact with the victim through fake social media accounts despite an active full stay away Order of Protection stemming from a similar arrest in February. Borawa was released on an appearance ticket for the above charges and is to appear in the Town of Afton Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 34 year old Christopher Moynihan of Clinton for threatening to kill House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Moynihan was pardoned for his role in the January 6th 2020 insurrection in Washington, Moynihan was arrested Saturday and charged with making a terroristic threat, he was remanded to the Dutchess County Jail on $10,000 cash bail.

Thursday is the 24th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington and Pennsylvania, US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling for full funding for the health Issues of the 1st Responders to that disaster, instead of cuts or limited funding:

(Gillibrand 9-10-25)

Gillibrand said that in the past 14 years, the federal budget would include 1 or 2 billion dollars for that fund for 9/11 1st responders, but that amount has never been enough to cover the costs.

State Police and State Park Police are conducting a joint search operation in Buttermilk Falls State Park for an individual experiencing a mental health crisis. Authorities want to assure the public that there is no danger to the community. The search efforts are being assisted by New York State Forest Rangers, Tompkins County Sheriff’s Department, Volunteer search groups, K9 units, and drones. The State Police asks for the public’s cooperation as they work to locate and assist the individual in need.

Delaware County Public Health will have a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic For dogs, cats, and ferrets Today, from 5:00PM-7:00PM, at Stamford Fire Hall, 111 Main Street, If you need assistance pre-registering or have questions about the clinic, please call Delaware County Public Health at (607) 832-5200.

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.

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

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.

State Police arrested 31 year old Pierce Tobin of Oneonta for 2nd degree Assault following a violent incident at the Homer Folks Facility. On May 9th, Troopers, SUNY University Police, and the Oneonta Town Constable responded to a report of an assault, An investigation revealed that Tobin became aggressive after being informed by a staff member that he was not permitted to smoke. Tobin punched the staff member in the face and bit off a portion of the victim’s ear. The victim was treated at A.O. Fox Hospital. Tobin was taken into custody at the scene and was arraigned & was remanded to the Otsego County Jail on $5,000 cash/credit or $10,000 bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, The investigation remains ongoing.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 5-14-25

On May 1st, 22 year old Seth Ostrander of Unadilla was arrested and charged with 2nd degree Attempted Murder and Criminal Use of a Firearm. State Police & Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance on State Highway 8 in the town of Masonville, Troopers determined that a verbal argument had escalated into a physical altercation during which Ostrander discharged a shotgun in the direction of another individual. The victim was not struck by the gunfire and declined further medical treatment at the scene. Ostrander was taken into custody and arraigned at Delaware County Centralized Arraignment. The investigation is ongoing.

Binghamton Police responded to the Salvation Army at 131 Washington Street yesterday afternoon, Officers found a 57-year-old male suffering from stab wounds, the man was taken to an area hospital and was pronounced dead. 37-year-old Michael Brutvan allegedly entered the building and stabbed the victim several times & fled the scene, but was located & arrested. Brutvan has been charged with 2nd-degree murder, the investigation is continuing.

The Delaware County Board of Supervisors announced today that the next board meeting, scheduled for today at 1:00 PM at the Charles Cook County Office Building, has been canceled.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 5-6-25

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

(Townsend 5-6-25)

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

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

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 19 year old Johnny Mackinsdixon and 24 year old Bless King of Brooklyn, On April 27th, Colchester Police attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled the scene, but the operator was unable to maintain control of the vehicle, striking the curb, sidewalk and retaining wall of the bridge. Both the driver and passenger fled the accident scene on foot & were apprehended. The vehicle had been reported stolen out of Brooklyn NY on April 26, it had stolen Washington State License plates. Mackinsdixon was charged with Obstruction of Governmental Administration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, speeding, as well as several other lesser charges, King was charged with Obstructing Governmental Administration. Both were turned over to the Delaware County Correctional Facility where they were remanded on $10,000 cash Bail.

A.M. NEWS Tuesday 5-6-25

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

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

P.M. NEWS MONDAY 2-11-25

60 year old Loretta Washington of Binghamton was sentenced in US District Court to 18 months in prison for social security fraud. Washington admitted that she had applied for and was receiving social security benefits for a minor child, In September 2018, Broome County Department of Social Services removed the child from Washington’s custody after the 4 year old child was found walking on a road in the middle of the night. Washington never reported the change in custody, she received over $25,000 in social security benefits, In addition to the prison term. Washington will serve 3 years of supervised release & was ordered to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration.

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.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office responded to a domestic incident in the Town of Delhi, 50-year-old James Eriksen of Delhi engaged in a physical altercation with his partner, in front of a 4-year-old child and 13-year-old child. Eriksen had left the scene prior to Deputies arriving, Deputies to applied for criminal summons through the Town of Delhi court, last Friday Eriksen surrendered himself at the Sheriff’s Office and was ordered to appear in the Town of Delhi Court at a later date to answer the charge.

Foothills Performing Arts Center will be participating with the local artistic community this weekend, spokesman Geoff Doyle explains:

(Geoff Doyle 9-11-24)

More information about this & other events can be found at foothillspac.org.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 9-11-24

The SUNY Oneonta Alumni Association held a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony this morning at the 9/11 Memorial in the quad. The was open to all member of the community & featured an Honor Guard, a presentation of flowers and a wreath, and special music, to honor those who lost their lives on September 11th in 2001 in New York City, Washington DC & Shanksville Pennsylvania.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will recognize several businesses and groups for their service to the county’s business community at its 2024 Business Awards celebration on October 16 at The Meredith Inn at Stonewall. Chamber President Ray Pucci comments:

(Ray Pucci 9-11-24)

The new businesses that will be honored include Bakers Grimm in Delhi, Bizzy Bees Learning Academy in Delhi, Catskills Junction in Stamford, Delhi Work Station, Galloping Horse Graphics in Hancock, The Hobart Exchange, The Lost Bookshop in Delhi, and The Walton Diner. Tickets for the dinner event are $60 per person. Reservations are required and may be made under the Events column at DelawareCounty.org.

State Police arrested 21 year old Nathan Kurtz of Bainbridge for Driving While Intoxicated and Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident. Troopers responded to a report of a vehicle that was disabled on County Road 48 and that it had left the scene of an accident. Troopers determined that Kurtz had driven the vehicle impaired and damaged a yard, he was transported to the Oneonta barracks where he was evaluated by a Drug Recognition Expert. Kurtz was processed and issued appearance tickets to the Otego Town Court on October 17th.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-27-24

Fireworks Over The Fairgrounds returns to the Chenango County Fairgrounds in Norwich on July 4th, Promoter Terry Potter of Millennia Entertainment explains:

(Terry Potter 6-27-24)

Tickets are available online at eventbrite.com, activities will begin at 4:00 PM.

30 year old Joseph Swarts of Binghamton was sentenced in Broome County Court Wednesday to 4.5 years in State Prison, followed by 2 years of post-release supervision for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. On May 4, 2023, after a traffic stop and investigation by the Binghamton Police Department Community Response Team, Swarts was discovered to have methamphetamine in his possession.

Motor vehicle fatalities in New York state rose 25.8% from 2019-2022, the highest level in a decade, as the number of vehicle miles travelled, licensed drivers, and traffic accidents have declined, according to a report by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. There were 1,175 traffic fatalities in New York in 2022, which was the highest number since 2013. This increase coincides with a 7% decrease in vehicle miles travelled and a 12.5% decline in traffic accidents in New York in this period. Regionally, the North County had the highest per capita fatality rate in 2022 at 12.9 per 100,000 people.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-27-24

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer visited Awestruck Ciders in Sidney yesterday, vowing to overturn the "Bubble Tax", which has kept the local cideries from adding other flavored ciders that would have carbonation levels or "Bubbles" like champagne, that would be costly in taxes:

(Schumer 6-27-24)

Schumer said that the dropping of the Bubble tax would mean millions of dollars to the New York economy, from the fast growing Cider industry, he will introduce the legislation when he returns to Washington.

The Chenango County Historical Society will host the annual Summer Barn Party tonight from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at 41 Rexford Street in Norwich, Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 6-27-24)

Moquin said that tickets are available right up to the start of the party in Norwich this evening.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-25-24

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond is the president of the New York State Sheriff's Association, he held a press conference in Albany this week calling on Lawmakers to do something about the surge in attack on police officers statewide:

Sheriff DuMond 4-25-26)

Sheriff DuMond said that 4 Officers in New York State have been killed in the line of duty this year already, including 2 near Syracuse last week, & he mentioned that stabbing of a Norwich Police officer recently who escaped being fatally injured, he is calling on Lawmakers to support the efforts of law enforcement with meaningful legislation before the end of the current session in June.

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force said officers executed the search warrant at 15 Corbett Avenue where Officers seized methamphetamines, crack cocaine, fentanyl and methadone, as well as items used for weighing and packaging narcotics. 41 year old Jeremy Bezek was charged with multiple counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance & criminally using drug paraphernalia, 25 year old Carter Dennison was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, both face court action shortly.

An American Red cross Blood Drive is being held today in Delhi from 1:00 to 6:00 PM at the Delhi Alliance Church, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 4-25-24

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce will host a local contest of the National Civics Bee on Saturday, April 27, as middle schoolers strive to represent New York at the national competition in Washington, D.C. The local competition will be held at The Okun Theatre at SUNY Delhi, starting at 2:00 pm. Delaware County Chamber President Ray Pucci explains:

(Ray Pucci 4-25-24)

The top three finalists from the locally hosted competition advance to the May 30 statewide competition in Albany with one moving on to the third annual national contest in November. The top three finishers will receive a cash prize and trophy.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies conducted a traffic stop for violations in the town of Middletown, Deputies arrested 28 year old Frank Mazepa of Morris for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, for driving with 3 active suspensions on his license, he was charged with several other traffic infractions, & he was directed to appear at the Town of Middletown Court at a later date to answer for the charges. Mazepa was also found to be the subject of an active violent felony arrest warrant and was turned over to the Oneonta Police Department, where he was held pending arraignment.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched on March 4th to a 1 car motor vehicle accident located on East Hubbell Hill Road, in the Town of Middletown. 25-year-old Filemon Garcia Jr., of Middletown, lost control of the vehicle, left the roadway and entered into a ditch, causing damage to private property. Following the investigation and the results of toxicology report, Deputies arrested Garcia this week for DWI, Aggravated DWI with a BAC of .18% or above, Consumption of Alcohol in a Motor vehicle, speed not reasonable and prudent, among other charges, he was released & was ordered to appear in the Town of Middletown Court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-12-24

36 year old Richard Hayes of Oneonta appeared in Delaware County Court & was arraigned on a sealed indictment for Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Failure to Register or Verify as a Sex Offender, for inappropriately touching a female child less than 11 years old, causing physical injury to the child, Hayes is also accused failing to register with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office as he was required by law. After being arraigned, Hayes pleaded not guilty to the indictment, he was remanded to the Delaware County Correctional Facility on $50,000 cash bail pending future court action.

28 year old Scott Googins of Delhi was indicted by the Delaware County Grand Jury on a 3-count indictment. Googins was charged with 2nd degree strangulation, 3rd degree Assault, & criminal mischief, he is accused of choking a female victim until she lost consciousness, intentionally causing physical injury to the same victim & preventing the victim from calling 911 during the domestic assault. Googins was released from custody after posting $3,000 cash bail, if convicted, he up to 7 years in state prison.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli reported that New York State received $1.06 for Every Tax Dollar Sent to Washington D.C. in Federal Fiscal Year 2022, it was the 3rd Consecutive Year of Positive Balance. The money mostly came from the federal pandemic relief funds, previously, New York was sent way more to the federal Government than they received back. In Federal Fiscal Year 2022, New York state generated $361.8 billion in federal taxes and benefited from $383 billion in federal spending.

An American Red Cross Blood drive will be held in Oneonta Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The Blood Drive will be at the Southside Mall's Oneonta YMCA, appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 4-12-24

Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Tuesday night to a report of a robbery in progress at the Sunoco Gas Station / Empire Food Store in Harpursville. Brody Kenyon of the Town of Colesville had entered the store and demanded a lighter and lighter fluid, he allegedly doused the employee with it and attempted to set him on fire, the attempt was unsuccessful, the spilled lighter fluid ignited and burned an ATM before extinguishing. Kenyon then stole several items & fled on foot. Patrols located Kenyon, he was charged with Arson, Assault with Intent to Cause Serious Injury with a Weapon, Robbery, Reckless Endangerment, he was arraigned and remains in custody at the Broome County Correctional Facility. Kenyon was also charged with attempted Burglary & criminal mischief for attempting to break into the Harpursville Fire Station and damaging property, prior to the gas station incident.

The Broome County Sheriff's Office announced that 40 year old Rasheed Crawford of Binghamton was arrested following a robbery in Endicott. On Wednesday night, Crawford allegedly pulled a handgun to rob an Endicott gas station, he left the scene in a cab. Broome County Sheriff’s Office patrol in the Town of Union spotted the cab, conducted a traffic stop & Crawford was successfully taken into custody and turned over to the Endicott Police Department. Crawford was also wanted by the Binghamton Police Department regarding two robberies that occurred in the City of Binghamton on April 9, 2024.

Port Dickinson Police and Broome County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Sunday to Port Dickinson for a report of gunfire and possible domestic dispute. Upon arrival, a female victim was located with minor injuries from a dispute with her boyfriend, who was located shortly afterwards. Law enforcement located several shell casings, both parties sustained minor injuries and the female was transported to a nearby hospital & were treated & released, neither party was cooperative with the investigation and the handgun used to fire the shots was not located. Chenango Street was closed for a few hours while Detectives processed the scene and canvassed the area for property damage and witnesses. No person sustained injuries from the firearm being discharged and no charges have been filed. During the initial crime scene investigation, a vehicle struck a Trooper car that was blocking the roadway & drove through the scene, nearly striking a Detective. That vehicle was located nearby and the operator, 37 year old Helene Delnegro of Port Dickinson was charged with DWI, Reckless Endangerment & Obstructing Governmental Administration.

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond returned from a 4 day trip to Washington DC, as President of the New York State Sheriff's Association, meeting with members of Congress & the US Senate & FBI Director Christopher Wray, he told WCDO News that he hopes that his position will help get the Sheriff's Associations positions taken seriously:

(Sheriff DuMond 2-16-24)

Sheriff DuMond said that he has 1 year to serve as the Association President, he is the 1st Delaware County sheriff to hold the position in the Associations 90 year history.

36 year old Ryan Wood of Sidney appeared in Delaware County Court Wednesday and was arraigned on a sealed indictment. A 1 Count Indictment was unsealed, charging Wood with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance, for allegedly selling fentanyl in the Village of Sidney on September 18, 2023. Wood pleaded not guilty to the indictment, he was released from custody, if he is convicted of this crime, he faces a maximum sentence of 9 years in state prison and up to 2 years of post-release supervision.

Members of the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Warrant Squad and BCSO Detective Division, following several leads, located Olivia Gutierrez in the Village of Endicott and successfully brought her into custody. Gutierrez was this week's featured warrant by the Broome County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 11-15-23

43 year old Misty Cintron and 50 year old Brandon Hendricks, both of Sidney, were indicted for 15 charges by the Delaware County Grand Jury last week. The Indictment charges the pair with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, for possessing $15,000 worth of fentanyl, crack, Methamphetamines and cocaine, with the intent to sell. Cintron was also charged with Tampering with Physical Evidence, Hendricks was also charged with Criminal possession of a weapon for allegedly illegally possessing a 12-gauge shotgun. The last count accuses the pair with having scales & packaging materials for illegally selling drugs.

The US Government shutdown will not happen on Friday, as steps were taken in Washington to keep Government open, US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand explains:

(Gillibrand 11-15-23)

Senator Gillibrand said that the package does not include funding for military operations, that includes resources to help Israel defend itself against terrorism, to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression, and to secure the southern border.

Broome County Sheriff's Office responded to I-88 west bound near I-81 in Port Dickinson, which was closed for several hours following a multi-vehicle accident this morning near exit 2. The stretch of highway was closed for the investigation & subsequent clean up.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Laura Juraska on an outstanding warrant for violating probation on a 2nd degree Grand Larceny charge. Juraska is described as a white female, 5'7" tall, 140 pounds, with red hair & blue eyes, she was last known to frequent the North Broad Street area of the Village of Johnson City. Anyone with information on the location of Juraska can file tips electronically using gobroomecounty.com/sheriff/warrants or by calling the Broome County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196.

A.M. NEWS Wednesday 11-15-23

The Otsego County Solid Waste Department, Otsego County Conservation Association, and Casella announced that the Film Plastic Recycling Challenge is back, where area schools recycle plastic bags and other plastic film items which cannot be recycled through regular recycling programs. The challenge focuses on collecting clean, dry, plastic film to help keep it out of the landfill, it begins today until April 24th, Winners will be announced on Earth Day in April.

40 year old Jessica Furman formerly of Hancock appeared in Delaware County Court Monday and pleaded guilty to 3rd degree. Furman admitted that she was the manager of a Dollar General store in Hancock and she became addicted to gambling, she deposited $41,000 into her personal bank account instead of the store’s bank account, & lost all of that money gambling. she was sentenced to 5 years of felony probation supervision, she must repay $43,050.00 to Dollar General within 54 months. Failure to do so will result in a violation of probation & a potential state prison sentence of 2 and 1/3 to 7 years.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is currently looking for Matthew McCloe on an outstanding warrant for 2nd Degree Burglary. McCloe was last known to frequent the Dickinson Manor area of the Town of Dickinson. He is described as a white male, 5'10", 185 pounds with blue eyes & brown hair, Anyone with information on the location of McCloe is asked to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at gobroomecounty.com or by calling (607) 778-1196.

The Fundraising has begun for next year's Spelling bees, with the money raised to send a student & their family to Washington, to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Martha Ryan of the DCMO BOCES is leading the fundraising efforts:

(Martha Ryan 9-27-23)

Donations can be sent to DCMO BOCES Enrichment Services 6678 County Road 32 Norwich 13815. Ryan said that the Daily Star Spelling Bee will be held in February and the Scripps National Spelling Bee will be held over the Memorial Day Weekend. More information is available at 334-9848.

The Delaware County District Attorney's Office announced that 41 year old Mary Cutting of Sidney, pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance. Cutting appeared on Monday September 25th for a conference, she admitted that on January 19, she sold fentanyl to an unidentified individual in the Village of Sidney. Cutting will be sentenced to 3 years of incarceration, and 2 years of post-release supervision.

An AMBA Blood Screening Clinic is being held Saturday by The Tri-County Chapter of New York State Women, at the Sidney Elks Club. The money raised from the $10.00 sponsor fee are used for local high school scholarships. Call 1-800-234-8888 for an appointment, prescriptions from your health care provider are required.

Blues on the Bridge returns to Binghamton for the 21st year on Saturday, The event is centered around the South Washington Street Bridge. Numerous area bands will perform, More than 50 food tents and other vendors will be set up, more information is available at bluesonthebridge.com.

A.M. NEWS Friday 9-15-23

The Demolition of 27 Market Street in Oneonta will begin today. The building and site have been condemned and deemed unsafe. Absolutely no one is allowed on or near the work area except for the asbestos abatement contractor’s crews. There will be no parking on Chestnut Street Extension except for deliveries, on Monday, building demolition operations will begin, followed by backfilling and grading the site for parking. The project is expected to continue until the end of October.

September is Suicide awareness Month, and 2 events will be coming this month to raise awareness & raise funds to combat the continuing suicide problem. Karen Heisig is the Director of the Greater New York Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, she talked about Tomorrow's Walk in Oneonta:

(Karen Heiseg 9-15-23)

Heiseg said Saturday's Oneonta Walk will be at the 6th Ward Booster Club Field, another will be on September 24th starting at SUNY Delhi at 12:00 Noon, people can register for the walks at AFSP.ORG/Oneonta or AFSP.Org/Delaware County, more information is also available at 315-664-0346.

P.M. N EWS MONDAY 5-22-23

32 year-old Courtni Baker of Sidney pleaded guilty in Delaware County Court today to charges relating to a February 15th accident, where Baker struck 14-year-old Anielle “AK” McEwan-Lomnicki as she was walking home from Sidney middle school. Delaware County Acting District Attorney Shawn Smith told WCDO news about the verdict:

(DA Shawn Smith 5-22-23)

Baker registered a .24 blood alcohol content, three times the legal limit at the time of her arrest, Smith said that Baker faces 4 to 12 years in prison at her sentencing on September 25th.

49-year-old Hasaan Coston of Binghamton was found guilty in Broome County Court on 3 felony drug possession charges related to two separate raids by members of Broome County's Special Investigations Unit Task Force. Officers executed the 1st search warrant on July 29, 2021, and recovered cocaine, crack cocaine, $1200 cash and drug paraphernalia, at the 2nd search on August 4, 2022, in Endicott, officers seized more cocaine, crack cocaine and $1260 cash, Coston could face over 25 years in jail upon sentencing later this year.

Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies, State Police and the Village of Delhi Police Department, responded May 14th to a report of a Physical Domestic in Progress in the Town of Meredith. 35-year-old James Twito of Meredith, allegedly engaged another person in a physical domestic dispute where he is accused of obstructing the breathing of the victim, he was charged with Unlawful Imprisonment, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, 3rd degree Assault & Criminal Mischief , Twito was arraigned in the Town of Delhi Court where he was remanded to the Delaware County Jail on $5,000 cash or $10,000 in secured bond.

The New York Farm Bureau announced support today for Governor Hochul's request to the federal government to expedite work visas for migrants who have been properly processed and who want to work on farms in New York State. There is a lengthy tradition of migrant workers on New York State farms, Farm Bureau officials stated that the State Department of Agriculture and Markets along with Cornell's Agricultural Workforce Development program are working to rectify the situation, the latest action would just be a temporary one and Washington officials must act to come up with a permanent solution to all angles of the immigration issue.

The State Department of Health today issued updated advisories for the consumption of fish from waterbodies in the State. The most notable update this year is the release of a new Catskill Region advisory, which includes the Cannonsville & Pepacton reservoirs in Delaware County, The Advisory is for a “Sensitive population”, which includes people who may bear children and children under 15; the fish in question include rainbow, brook & brown trout. More information about the advisories is available at health.ny.gov.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office aarested 28 year old Joseph Spataro of Otego following a welfare check investigation in the Town of Oneonta. Spataro was chargeedd with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, DWI, Unlicensed Operator, Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs & Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a mtoro vehicle, Spataro is accused of operating a motor vehicle while impaired and in possession of drugs, he was issued an appearance ticket for the Oneonta Town Court on a later date.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 5-22-23

The Otsego County Sheriff’s Office arrested 48 year old Richard Sherman of Guilford following a motor vehicle accident on State Highway 51 in the Town of Morris. Sherman was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated , Speed not reasonable and prudent, Failure to Keep Right among other charges, Sherman will appear in Town of Morris Court on May 22, 2023 at 3:00pm.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 3-28-23

The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for February 2023. Rates are calculated using methods prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. New York State’s seasonally adjusted unemployment held constant at 4.2% in February 2023. Locally, Chenango County had 4.1% unemployment, Delaware County had 4.5% and Otsego County 4.4% unemployment in February.

The State DOT announced that construction began to replace the existing bridge carrying NY Route 79 over the Chenango River in the Towns of Fenton and Barker in Broome County, with a new bridge realigning NY Route 79. State and Federal funding totaled $12.6 million for the project, which is scheduled for completion this Fall.

Livestock Foundation is proud to announce that we are offering one or more $1000 scholarships to Delaware County high school students graduating in 2023 with acceptance to a college or university where they will pursue a career in agriculture. To apply, students must fill out the application form and email a 500 word essay to info@livestockfoundation.org (mailto:info@livestockfoundation.org), Applications open March 31 and are due on May 31. Awards will be announced June 15th more information is available at livestockfoundation.org

The Broome County District Attorney's office is still pursuing the Colonial restaurant Rape case, after the owners sought to have the charges dismissed against them last month. The DA's office said that Jordan Rindgen, Yaron Kweller and his brother Leor Kweller are accused of supplying cocaine to 2 young women and then raping them in a basement on Washington Street in downtown Binghamton on November 27th, 2021. The Colonial Restaurant and Bar and Dos Rios Cantina, both owned by the defendants, have both since closed since the allegations went public & the charges were filed.

Broome County Sheriff's Office arrested 63 year old Patrick Logan for failure to register under the sex offender registration act; Logan was taken to the Central Arraignment Part Court at the Broome County Correction Facility for arraignment.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office arrested 34 year old Justin Terenzi of Berkshire, for failing to appear for a court date in January of 2023 after being previously arraigned on a charge. Terenzi was charged with Bail Jumping & was taken to the Central Arraignment for arraignment.

The Village of Sidney announced that today water lines will be shut off beginning at 9:00 am until approximately 6:00pm. This will affect Route 7, Deshaw Lane, Route 8, Old County Route 43, Junction Road and County Road 35. This is due to new water main connections being installed.

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-7-23

20 Year old Terry DeCutler of Sidney pleaded Guilty to 2nd degree Murder in Otsego County Court Monday, for the May 30th 2022 fatal stabbing of Kaleb O'Neill near Dietz Street in Oneonta. Terry DeCutler was arrested along with his Brother Nicholas DeCutler of Unadilla shortly after the discovery of O'Neill's Body, Nicholas DeCutler still faces court action in connection with this case.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand discussed her expectations regarding President Biden's State of The Union Address in Washington tonight, in a video press conference this morning:

(Gillibrand 2-7-23)

The State of the Union address begins at 9:00 PM tonight at the United States Capitol.

Broome County Sheriff’s deputies responded Friday to a report of a 2-car motor vehicle accident on Route 7 in the Town of Colesville. 40 year old Jesse Zurn of Port Crane was charged Driving While Intoxicated, plus aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Making an Unsafe Lane Change, Zurn was released on an appearance ticket to answer for his charges at the Town of Colesville Court later this month. The Driver of the other vehicle was not injured, and not charged in connection with the accident.

Broome County District Attorney's office announced that Kennard Wellington of Endwell was sentenced to 8 years in state prison and 5 years of post release supervision, after he was found guilty of Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Obstructing Governmental Administration and Resisting Arrest in October 2022. Wellington was stopped by Police in Johnson City, he was operating a vehicle with a suspended license, no insurance, he did not comply with Police and was forcibly removed from the vehicle, he also had a loaded handgun at the time of his arrest. Wellington disappeared after the 2nd day of his trial was was located by Binghamton Police & US Marshals, he was convicted of selling narcotics in 2007 in Broome County.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 2-7-23

The New York State Department of Health today announced that even though laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza declined for the seventh week in a row, dropping 34 percent over the prior week’s report, the flu remains widespread across the State for the 17th consecutive week. There was also one influenza-associated pediatric death reported this week, for a total of nine pediatric deaths in New York attributed to influenza this flu season. The Department’s Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report for the week ending January 28, shows there were 2,937 cases of flu reported, 304 people were hospitalized with influenza, a 35 percent decrease over the previous week.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 32 year old Michael Coulman of Milford on 2 counts of Criminal Contempt, following a domestic dispute in the Town of Milford on January 28th. Coulman is accused of violating a temporary full stay away order of protection where he had contacted the protected party and invited the protected party over to his residence. A dispute then occurred with the defendant and the protected party. Coulman was arraigned at Otsego County Central Arraignment, he was remanded to the Otsego County Correctional Facility on $1,000 dollars cash bail or $2,000.00 dollars bond, pending future court action in the Town of Milford Court at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 46 year old John Hilts of Mount Vision following a traffic stop in the Town of Oneonta on January 28. Hilts was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operator, Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Uninspected Motor Vehicle, he is scheduled to appear in the Town of Oneonta Court on a later date.

P.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-3-23

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 26 year old Preston Walker of Hancock on a bench warrant from State Police in Endwell. Sheriff’s Deputies made contact with Walker on January 14th, he was wanted on a warrant for Criminal Trespass, Deputies arrested Walker and turned him over to Troopers to answer to the charges.

Delaware County Sheriff's Office arrested 47 year old Robert Burke of Ogdensburg New jersey, back on January 17th, Deputies were notified that Burke was at the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office to surrender himself for his active Delaware County Court Bench Warrant, for failure to appear. Burke was arraigned on the Bench Warrant in Delaware County Court where he was committed to the Custody of the Delaware County Correctional Facility future court action at a later date.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 22 year old Frederick Brown of Unadilla following a traffic stop in the Town of Otego on January 30th. Brown was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a motor vehicle, Unregistered Motorcycle, and for not wearing a helmet. Brown if accused of operating an unregistered dirt bike on a public highway with a suspended driver’s license, he will appear in the Town of Otego Court at a later date

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested 22 year old Vanessa Brewer of Unadilla following a traffic stop in the Town of Oneonta on January 30th. Brewer is accused of operating a motor vehicle on a public highway with a suspended driver’s license, she was ordered to appear in the Town of Otego Court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 2-3-23

The Broome County Special Investigations Unit Task Force arrested 5 people recovering tens of thousands of dollars in narcotics and illegal weapons. On Wednesday, Task Force members executed a search warrant at 127 Washington Avenue in Endicott, seizing 32.8 Grams of Fentanyl, plus black tar heroin; Suboxone strips; drug paraphernalia, Methadone Pills; weapons and $2,137.00 in suspected drug proceeds, they arrested Chase Tiffany of Binghamton & Paul Reed of Endicott. On Thursday, Task Force members conducted a traffic stop on I- 81 in the Town of Chenango, they seized 1,100 grams of Fentanyl, Forged identity documents & $1,994.00 in suspected drug proceeds, they arrested Adolofo Del Rio De Jesus of the Bronx, Franklin Valdez of the Bronx & Carlos Valdez of North Providence, Rhode Island, who is a previously deported felon originally from the Dominican Republic, All were transported to the Central Arraignment at the Broome County Correctional Facility.

Broome County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded Wednesday to a report of a missing 22-year-old woman in Windsor, after an argument with her boyfriend, Jestin Bonilla of Windsor. Early Thursday morning, the woman was located walking along a road, she had several injuries from a domestic dispute, Bonilla was taken into custody and charged with Reckless Endangerment, Strangulation, 3rd degree Assault & Criminal Mischief, he was transported to the Broome County Correctional Facility to await arraignment.

Otsego County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 45-year-old Theodore Monroe following a crash in the town of Hartwick. Monroe registered a BAC of over .18, he was taken to Bassett Medical Center for treatment of injuries, he was charged with DWI, Speed not reasonable and prudent and Failure to keep right, he faces action in Town of Hartwick court at a later date.

P.M. NEWS Monday 11-7-22

Tomorrow is Election day, New Yorkers Statewide will be voting candidates to send to Washington, in the U.S. Senate seat currently occupied by Charles Schumer, he faces competition from Republican Joe Pinion & 3rd party candidate Diane Sare. Locally, voters in the 19th Congressional District will be choosing between a Republican Mark Molinaro of Duchess County, and Democrat Josh Riley of Tompkins county. Molinaro told WCDO News of his priorities:

(Marc Molinaro 11-7-22)

Riley told WCDO News about his position on some of the major issues:

(Josh Riley 11-7-22)

Polling places are open 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

In Delaware County, there is an election for County Judge between current District Attorney John Hubbard on the Republican line & for the Democrats, Andrew Van Buren. Hubbard told WCDO News that one of the changes he would like to enact, if elected, would be better communication between the County & Local Courts:

(John Hubbard 11-7-22)

Van Buren told WCDO News that people should be aware that the judge will have to follow the rule of law, whether they approve of the law or not:

(Andrew Van Buren 11-7-22)

The winner replaces Richard Northrup, who has decided to retire after many years of service on the bench & in the District Attorney's office.

43 year old Ray Hyer of Unadilla was arrested in Ohio after he failed to appear in n Otsego County court earlier this year for sentencing on a criminal sexual act charge. Hyer was located in Sandusky, Ohio on October 21st, he was arrested and was extradited back to the Otsego County Jail, he faces additional charges on top of the original criminal sexual act conviction.

Broome County officials are investigating the death of an inmate in the Broome County Jail on Friday. 30 year-old Mitchell Lindow of Binghamton was being held on a murder charge when he was found deceased by Corrections officers conducting a head count, an autopsy was conducted Friday, no cause of death was determined.

A.M. NEWS MONDAY 11-7-22

State Police announced that 9 people were arrested & drugs were seized after search warrants were executed at Budget Inn Motel on Route 23 Southside in the town of Oneonta Thursday & Friday. Items seized included methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, ecstasy, Suboxone strips & Packaging materials and scales, The investigation is on-going.

P.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 10-26-22

With Election Day less than 2 weeks away, WCDO has been interviewing candidates for key area races. In the 19th Congressional District race, WCDO News asked Democrat Josh Riley & Republican Marc Molinaro to comments on their top priorities should they win the election, first we hear from Josh Riley:

(Josh Riley 10-26-22)

Republican Marc Molinaro also told WCDO News of his priorities should he be sent to Washington by district voters:

(Marc Molinaro 10-26-22)

The 19th Congressional District has changed substantially, even since the recent election where Molinaro lost to Democrat Pat Ryan, both men are running again against different opponents on November 8th in a District previously served by current Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is again participating in the Annual Toys For Tots Campaign. Chamber President Ray Pucci told WCDO News that they are looking for area businesses to be collection site for toys:

(Ray Pucci 10-26-22)

Any Delaware County Business that is interested in becoming a 'Toys for Tots' Collection Site, should contact the Chamber soon at 607-746-2281. In December, Chamber staff will pick up the toys and deliver them to Delaware Opportunities, to provide distribution of the gifts to Delaware County families.

The Chenango County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting date is today, at Fred’s Inn, Route 12, Norwich. the event begins at 6:30PM.

Members of the Chenango County Farm Bureau recently lobbied lawmakers in Washington regarding a series of agricultural issues, Farm Bureau President Bradd Vickers comments:

(Bradd Vickers 10-7-22)

Vickers said that the issues were discussed in hopes of having the issues possibly resolved in the 2023 US Farm bill.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 10-7-22

The Chenango County Historical Society will host a Living History & Industrial Heritage Festival this Saturday at their Norwich location, commemorating the importance of the Chenango Canal, Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin explains:

(Jessica Moquin 10-7-22)

For more information, visit ChenangoHistorical.org or call (607) 334-9227, extension 2.

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies initiated a traffic Stop on September 22nd, in the Town of Middletown. Deputies initially stopped the vehicle and driver for it traveling 77 Miles Per Hour in a posted 55 Mile an hour zone, Steven Mendoza was driving with his driving privileges suspended, he was arrested for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, Speeding, Unlicensed Operator and Non-Distinctive Plate. Mendoza was released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Middletown Court to answer for the charges at a later date.

Delaware County leaders met with federal State & New York City officials on Tuesday, to show that Delaware County is keeping up its end of the bargain regarding the 1995 Watershed Agreement, Watershed Affairs Coordinator Nick Carbone of the Delaware County planning Department told WCDO news about the purpose of calling the meeting:

(Nick Carbone 9-30-22)

Carbone said that negotiations will be ongoing as they have about a 3 year window to reach an agreement on an updated Watershed agreement, they hope that they can slow down the continuing issue of New York City buying up land in Delaware County to protect their water supply.

The Sidney Central School District announced that their Observatory will be open on Friday Night October 14th from 9:00 to 10:00 PM, Weather Permitting. Several Telescopes will be available for viewing, the observatory is located behind the high school.

A.M. NEWS FRIDAY 9-30-22

Delaware County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 2 people Monday following a traffic stop in the Town of Colchester. Deputies observed a vehicle with no taillights on, a traffic stop was conducted & 21-year-old Bushra Turki of Seattle, Washington was driving, the passenger was 26-year-old Mady Sy of the Bronx. Turki's license was suspended, the vehicle had an invalid registration & inspection and did not have insurance. A search of the vehicle was conducted, Deputies located a large quantity of Marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Deputies charged Turki for Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Ignition Interlock Device, Unlicensed Operator, Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Operating without Insurance, along with several other charges, he was released to appear in the Town of Colchester Court at a later date. Sy was charged with 1 count of Unlawful possession of Cannabis.

On May 28th, Delaware County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a 1 vehicle motor vehicle accident in the Town of Franklin. The investigation revealed that 18 year old William Mettler of Franklin was the driver of the vehicle, he was taken to a hospital, where Deputies secured a blood test to determine Mettler's blood alcohol content, Mettler also had a suspended driver’s license. Last Week, Deputies arrested Mettler for Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, as well as other traffic violations, he will appear before the Town of Franklin Court at a later date.

State Police arrested 56 year old Francesco Carotenuto of Schenevus for Promoting Sexual Performance by a Child and Possessing Sexual Performance by a Child. An investigation revealed that Carotenuto was in possession of and promoting images consistent with child sexual exploitation via the internet. While at Carotenuto’s residence, Troopers observed seven adult dogs who did not have adequate food, water or shelter. The dogs were turned over to the care of the Otsego County SPCA. He was additionally charged with New York Agriculture and Market Law of Overdriving, Torturing, and Injuring Animals, a misdemeanor. Carotenuto was arraigned at Otsego County Central Arraignment and Processing and remanded to the jail on $20,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond. His next court date is scheduled at the Maryland Town Court on September 13, 2022.

The Broome County District Attorney’s Office announced that 58 year old Loretta Washington of Binghamton was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison followed by 2 1/2 years of post-release supervision, after pleading guilty to attempted arson. Washington set fire to a doormat that was outside of an apartment last October in Binghamton, the fire was quickly extinguished and that there were no injuries.

A.M. NEWS WEDNESDAY 9-14-22

The Village of Sidney will be seeking community input with their Resilient Sidney program today, Sidney Village Mayor Andy Matviak commented:

(Andy Matviak 9-6-22)

The Community meeting will be held tonight from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Community Cultural Center at 1 Bridge Street, more information about the program is available at resilient-sidney.com/nyforward.

State Police arrested 35 year old Tadd Sherwood of Oneonta for 2nd degree attempted murder after he allegedly fired a shotgun in a residential area Saturday in the town of Unadilla, that could have caused the death of another person. Sherwood was arraigned and was remanded to the Otsego County Jail without bail pending future court action.

P.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-1-22

Broome County Sheriff David Harder has appealed the State Supreme Court’s Decision to force the county correctional facility to resume in-person visitation. A recent State Supreme Court ruling stated that the Broome County Correctional Facility must allow visitors to be able to see their jailed friends and family beginning on September 5th, as COVID did not have the same threat of transmission level as it did in the beginning. Visitation was suspended in March 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic began closing down businesses, schools, government offices and organization worldwide & virtual visitation was permitted at the Broome County Facility.

The Delaware County Department of Public Works will continue work on a catch basin on County Route 14 in the Town of Franklin for the next 2 weeks. The work will take place in the hamlet of Treadwell just east of the intersection of County Route 14 and Case Hill Road. Traffic will be controlled with temporary Stop signs, the traveling public should expect minor delays during the work period.

State Senator Peter Oberacker marked Women’s Equality Day by announcing Delaware County Undersheriff Kim Smith as the 2022 New York State Senate “Woman of Distinction” from the 51st Senate District. Smith started as a part-time corrections officer with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office in 1997. She was named as the Delaware County's 1st female Undersheriff by Sheriff Craig DuMond in May of 2022. The complete list of 2022 honorees is available at nysenate.gov/women-of-distinction.

Chenango County Sheriff's Office arrested 55 year old Kevin Washington of Sherburne on an active Arrest Warrant Tuesday. Washington was arrested in Sherburne after being located by Detectives, he was taken into custody without incident. The Village of Sherburne Court issued the warrant after Washington failed to appear on previous charges, he was arraigned in the Village of Sherburne Court and was released & was ordered to appear in court at a later date.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 9-1-22

New York's new gun laws are enacted today, following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to strike down the state's century-old pistol permitting process. The laws contain strengthened background checks and firearm safety and live-fire training for individuals seeking to obtain concealed carry permits; prohibit concealed carry permit holders from bringing their firearms into sensitive locations, including bars, libraries, schools, government buildings and hospitals, among others; and require renewal or re-certification of permits every three years, More information is available at gunsafety.ny.gov.

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

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

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

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

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

P.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-5-22

A 32-year-old James Blackman of Afton has been indicted by a Chenango County Grand Jury, he is accused of raping 2 young boys under the age of 11, Blackman is currently being held at the Chenango County Correctional Facility pending future court action

Binghamton emergency crews responded Friday to 139 Washington Street for a report of a fire in an apartment in that building. Emergency crews discovered a drug lab in a different apartment in the building during their routine firefighting operations. Contaminated Crime Scene Emergency Response Team responded, nearby evacuated buildings and area businesses were allowed to reopen later Friday evening, the investigation into the illegal drug lab is continuing.

Otsego County Sheriff's Office arrested Michael Morton of Exeter on June 26th on multiple drug charges, after deputies responded to a complaint of a suspicious person in the Town of Plainfield. Morton is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance and two counts of a controlled substance not in original container, he faces court action at a later date.

A.M. NEWS TUESDAY 7-5-22

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the passage of a resolution to write equal rights into the State Constitution, to solidify the right to abortion access in New York. When enacted, the amendment will add ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, and sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive healthcare to existing protections, This follows the recent Supreme Court decision which removed federal protections for abortion.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominees for its 2022 Delaware County Business Awards in the categories of: Business of the Year; New Business of the Year, and Small Business Advocate of the Year. The ceremony will be held mid-September at the Andes Hotel. Email nominations and the reason for the nomination to rpucci@delawarecounty.org by August 1.

The Raymond Corporation is celebrating their 100th Anniversary this month, President & CEO Michael Field told WCDO News about the origins of the company:

(Michael Field 6-9-22)

Field Said that they will have a celebration next Tuesday which will feature the unveiling of their 100th Anniversary Exhibit, which will tour the County, Country & even into Mexico in the coming year. Field said that Raymond is also looking to hire more people, more information can be found at Raymondcorp.com.

Southern Tier 8 is holding the first-ever Upstate Rural Broadband Conference, on June 28th at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Binghamton. The daylong conference will bring national and state, and regional leaders together to identify actionable ways to speed-up the deployment of high-speed networks. Over 20 speakers from Washington, Albany, and the region will discuss how to get networks built, whom to partner with, how to fund high-speed broadband expansion, and the advocacy efforts needed to make it all happen. For more information, please visit southerntier8.org.

A.M. NEWS THURSDAY 6-9-22

The Oneonta Police Department is seeking public help in the murder on May 30th of 24 year old Kaleb O'Neill of Oneonta. O’Neill was found with stab wounds in the alley near 6 Dietz Street, he was declared dead after being transported to A.O. Fox Hospital. Anyone with additional information on the investigation is asked to contact the Oneonta Police Department Detective Division at 607-432-1111.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is being held in Cooperstown today from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the Otsego County Office of Emergency Services, 140 County Highway 33W. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

The Otsego County Department of Health will host a Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic tonight in Unadilla. The clinic will be held in Clifton Park from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, more information is available at 547-4230.