batavia

UPDATED with additional information from the trial.

An arson and attempted murder case dating back to 2018, beset by numerous delays -- including the 2020 pandemic -- has reached a resolution after a jury trial this week of Plush Dozier, 24.

Dozier was convicted by the jury this afternoon on both counts.

First-degree arson is a Class A-1 felony. Second-degree attempted murder is a Class B felony.  Under New York's penal law, both sentences must run concurrently.

Dozier intentionally set fire on June 15 to the house at 35 Maple St., Batavia, in an attempt to kill a person inside the residence.

First Assistant District Attorney Kevin Finnell, who prosecuted the case, indicated the conviction came on the strength of a confession by Dozier the night of the fire. At the fire scene while fire crews were still battling the blaze, Dozier approached Officer Arick Perkins and admitted to starting the fire. He later made a tape confession that included method and intent. Those details were corroborated through additional investigation and statements by occupants of the home.

During the drive, Lt. Micahel Morris, City Fire, provided testimony that helped secure the conviction.

During deliberations, the jury asked for a replay of the video of Dozier's confession and also asked for a readback of a portion of the testimony of one of the children who was home at the time of the fire.  

Finnell said the jury deliberated for more than two hours before returning a verdict.

Among the delays in the case was a September 2019 mental health evaluation that ended in a determination that Dozier was mentally fit to stand trial.

While in custody, Dozier allegedly damaged the door of a Sheriff's patrol vehicle and menaced an officer.  He also is accused of kicking out a plate glass window at the jail in a separate incident.

For previous coverage, click here.

Press release:

On October 29th students at Jackson Primary celebrated Halloween along with other fun fall activities during our second annual “Community Helper Day.”  We also provided fun alternate activities for those who do not celebrate Halloween. 

Students came dressed in their costumes for Halloween and paraded outside to visit the community helpers and their respective vehicles in the bus loop. Students were able to see real-life community heroes dressed in their everyday uniforms. 

These community helpers devoted their time to hand candy and goodies out to students at Jackson Primary. The community helpers included an EMT from Mercy Flight, Town and City of Batavia Fire Departments, New York State Troopers, Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy, Pastor Roula from First Presbyterian Church, Bruce Scolfield from Scofield Roll-Off Services, Rachael Tabelski, City Manager who organized The Department of Public Works, First Student of America bus transportation, Kyle Heassler, P.A. from Three Little Birds, Fay Fuerch and K9 Handley from the NYS DEC, Community Schools and Board of Education members John Reigle, Jennifer Lendvay and Michelle Humes. Prior to the event, students learned about who community helper was and why they are important in our community. We felt it was important for students to know that when they choose a costume of a community helper, now they see a real HERO.

The Batavia Police Benevolent Association and Firefighters Association each donated a bike to be raffled off to two Jackson Primary students for “Spooktacular” behavior. We would also like to thank McDonald’s for their donation of ice cream and apple slice coupons.

Jackson has had a long-standing partnership with the First Presbaratyian Church and they provided cider and treat bags for the students. Tim Horton’s also provided over 1000 TimBits. 

We are so thankful these community helpers took the time out of their busy schedules to educate students about potential career choices. We look forward to continuing to deepen our partnership with these community helpers in Batavia. We wanted it to be a day the students would not forget! I think together, we accomplished that!!!

Photos by Steve Ognibene.

Press release:

Western Region Off-Track Betting (WROTB) President and CEO Henry Wojtaszek presented representatives from the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester (BCCR) with a check for $19,653 to help support their efforts as they support those to have been touched by breast or gynecologic cancer.

On September 10th, a dinner fundraiser to benefit the BCCR was held inside the Clubhouse in conjunction with a night of racing.   The money was raised by several means including the sponsorship of races by individuals and businesses located in Western NY.  Some monies came from the local harness racing community as some owners, trainers, and drivers donated all or a portion of their earnings from the busy September 10th race card. Through the dinner, donations, several raffles, and auctions for items, the event raised $19,653.

“We are honored to host an event that raises awareness and funds for the BCCR,” Wojtaszek said. “Their hard work not only funds research but does so much more.  The BCCR holds educational and supports events so that members of the community can come together to learn and receive support.   The BCCR advocates for legislation at the local, state, and national levels to help further along with funding in the search for a cure.  This year the event held onsite was a success due to the hard work of their staff and ours.”

“On behalf of the BCCR, I am astounded by this tremendous support, especially this year as we continue to cope with the fallout of COVID-19,” said Holly Anderson, Executive Director and CEO of the BCCR. “Though it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we feel the support from the Batavia Downs community all year long. They entrust their friends and family members to us, assist us in making important connections within their community, and stay in touch with us on an ongoing basis. Breast cancer takes much more than “awareness”. It needs ACTION. Our friends at Batavia Downs walk the talk.”

Photo by Alecia Kaus

Press release:

The City of Batavia will observe Halloween activities until 8:00 PM on October 31st only.

Below are some tips to keep everyone safe, Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!

Walk Safely 

• Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. 
• Look left, right, and left again when crossing, and keep looking as you cross. 
• Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street. 
• Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them. 
• Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings. 
• Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars. 

Trick or Treat With an Adult 

• Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, remind them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.  Keep Costumes Both Creative and Safe 
• Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors. 
• Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision. 
• Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers. 
• When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls. 

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween 

• Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited about Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways. 
• Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians, and on curbs.  - Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully. 
• Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings. 
• Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic, and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances. 

Domique Sinclair Betantourt, 19, of Wilkins Street, Rochester, is charged with trespass. Betantourt is accused of being on the GCC campus after being banned from the campus following an earlier incident.  She was released on an appearance ticket.

Anthony Joseph Maye, 21, of Bovee Road, Begen, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or higher, inadequate plate lamp, and refusal to take breath test.  Maye was stopped at 3:02 a.m., Oct. 23, on Clinton Street Road, Stafford, by Sgt. Mathew Clor.

Press release:

Dellinger Avenue from West Main Street (NYS Rt.5) to Washington Avenue is closed to all traffic for a utility repair.  The closure is expected to be in place for the day.  Residents of Dellinger Avenue South of #11 Dellinger Avenue should access their property from West Main Street.  Residents North of #11 Dellinger Avenue should access their property from Washington Avenue.

All motorists that regularly use these streets are asked to seek alternative routes while the closures are in place.   

UPDATE: The road has reopened.  

Press release:

Saint James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main Street is selling nine-inch apple and pumpkin pies for $9 each.  Available options are apple unbaked frozen, apple ready to eat, pumpkin baked frozen, pumpkin ready to eat.  Pick up at the church's Pie Sale and Basket Raffle on Friday, November 19, 4-6 pm, or Saturday, November 20, 10 am-12 pm.  You are encouraged to pre-order by calling or texting 585-356-5359.  A limited number will be available if you forget to pre-order.

Press release:

Join the Richmond Memorial Library in assisting families in need in our community.

The RML Teen Programming Group will sponsor a food drive collection from November 1st-November 19th, 2021 at Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St, Batavia.  Below are some suggestions of acceptable items. Please make sure all items are not past expiration and are non-perishables!  A donation bin will be located in the foyer of the library and donations can be dropped off during regular library hours.  Donations will be delivered to the Salvation Army.  Questions can be directed to Teen Services Librarian Felicia Cecere (fcecere@nioga.org) or at 585-343-9550 ext. 1516 or Library Assistant Ellen Brokaw (ebrokaw@nioga.org).

Suggested Items for Donation:

Boxed Stuffing Mix, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Jars of Gravy (or Gravy Mix Packets), Canned Yams, Cranberry Sauce, Canned Vegetables, Cornbread Mix, Canned Pie Fillings, Pie Crust Mix, Box Dessert Mixes, Drink Mixes, Coffee, Tea, Crackers, Foil Baking Pans, Paper Products.

Richmond Memorial Library is located at 19 Ross St in the City of Batavia. The library is open Mon-Thurs 9 am - 9 pm and Fri & Sat 9 am - 5 pm. For more about the library, visit batavialibrary.org

Press release:

The Genesee County Health Department is seeking information about the location of a dog and its owner following a dog bite incident around 6:00pm on Saturday, October 23. The owner was walking the dog on a leash on Clifton Avenue in Batavia (near James Street).

The dog is described as a medium-sized white dog with patches of black throughout the body. The dog had medium hair length, similar to a border collie mix and was approximately 40 to 50 pounds. The dog had ears that were flopped over and after the incident, there was damage to the left ear.

The dog’s owner is described as a white male, in his 30’s. He was around 5’8” to 5’10”, medium build, and wearing glasses. The owner has been seen walking the dog in this area before. After the incident, the owner and dog turned back and headed towards Farrall Park area.

It is important to locate the dog to determine whether or not it is current on its rabies shot. If the health status is not identified, post-exposure rabies shots will be offered to several victims.   

If you have information about the location of the dog and its owner, please contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555.

Charles Earl Ford, 57, of Woodfield Road, Baldwin, is charged with criminal trespass 2nd.  Ford was located at 6:52 a.m., Oct. 18, by a homeowner on Galloway Road, Batavia, sleeping in a car parked in the garage of the residence.  Ford was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Liza Monica Bezczynski, 26, of Pearl Street, Batavia, is charged with violation of a court order by physical contact and harassment 2nd. Bezczynski allegedly struck and kicked a person at a residence on Pearl Street at 11:46 a.m., Friday.  She was issued an appearance ticket.

Drug Take-Back Day continues until 2 p.m. in the Alva Place parking lot in Batavia. You can turn in your unused or expired medications for safe disposal to help prevent prescription drug abuse, accidental poisoning, and protect the environment.

There are also locations at the Pembroke Town Hall and the Le Roy Police Department.

Photo: Officer Stephen Quider, K-9 Batu, and Detective Jason Ivison.

The Blue Devils offense once again proved too much for an opposing defense as Batavia beat Wilson Magnet at home on Friday 42-20.

Cam McClinic scored two touchdowns on six carries for 42 yards. Jesse Reinhart rushed for a touchdown and toss one while going 5-6 passing.

Javin McFollins had a TD reception on two catches for 32 yards. Vincent Arroyo caught a 46-yard TD pass and Aiden Anderson caught a 25-yard TD pass.

On defense, Kaden Marucci had eight tackles. 

Other Friday games:

Alexander 10 over Cal-Mum/Byron-Bergen, 10-0.  Brayden Woods carried the ball 20 times for 51 yards.  Nick Kramer had 11 carries for 77 yards and a TD.  He was also 4-6 passing for 25 yards.  The Trojans finish the regular season 7-1.

Oakfield-Alabama beat Geneseo/Mount Morris, 58-14.

To view or purchase prints, click here.

Photos by Steve Ognibene

City schools officials are on a journey to dole out warm welcomes, and they’re taking Batavia Blue Devils on board for the ride.

Or make that, onboarding: an effort that more companies and organizations are making to fully integrate new employees.  For Batavia City School District, this means tours, group sessions to complete required paperwork, and more down-to-earth greetings, says Trisha Finnigan, executive director of operations.

“When inviting them for an interview or screening, it starts with ‘thank you for applying to become a member of the Blue Devils family,’” she said during Thursday’s Board of Education meeting. “We start with that notion that we are a family from the get-go.”

Unlike traditional orientations, usually done in groups to review policies and procedures, onboarding is to acclimate new hires and ensure “they have access to the things they need from the onset,” Finnigan said. Whereas orientations are typically a one-time event, onboarding will be a process of 12 or more months, she said. 

“It’s a process of integrating new employees over that period of time,” she said.  

An informational page of new employees, or those that moved into different positions, and their photos will be included in this effort, she said. People will better be able to place names with faces and know those who work in other school buildings, she said. 

Finnigan is scheduling one-on-one meetings with new employees to find out what they liked about the hiring process and what could have been done differently, she said. 

According to Glassdoor research, a great employee onboarding program can improve employee retention by 82 percent. Human Capital Institute states that 87 percent of employers credit buddy programs for boosting new hire proficiency. Batavia’s onboarding agenda includes a mentoring buddy, Finnigan said. 

The board later approved a slate of new employees, all of which will get to know the rest of the Blue Devils family soon enough. 

Other board approvals went to an inter-municipal agreement between Livonia Central School District and the Batavia district for shared remote/digital learning and a revised agreement with Mary Cariola Children’s Center.     

Visit/shop online: Oliver's Candies • Sweet Life Country Store

Costs are going up with unexpected elevator repairs at Batavia Middle School, as city Board of Education members voted Thursday to approve a transfer of $212,000 from the repair reserve fund. 

Business Administrator Scott Rozanski had reviewed the issues and scope of work at the Sept. 19 board meeting, with the vote to occur this month. Members unanimously and without discussion agreed to the transfer for what Rozanski deemed “the worst-case scenario.” 

The elevator stopped working in March. Board members had approved an initial transfer of $65,000 for anticipated repairs by Otis Elevator Company in May, Rozanski said. A hydraulic cylinder had ceased to operate and work was to begin then, he said, but supply chain issues delayed it for a while. Work eventually began to repair the cylinder, however, there was an obstruction that prevented anything to continue. 

Otis Elevator proposed three phases to be used as needed: Phase I would involve cleaning out the hole, removing the pipe, and continuing the necessary work. If the cylinder casing is good, the issue should be resolved, Rozanski said, and the repair could be completed. The price tag for this first phase would be $35,000.

If it is determined that the casing is bad, then they will move on to Phase II for a new casing and another $26,000. Phase III is the “worst-case scenario” of the first two solutions failing, he said. Work will expand to include redrilling the hole, removing all of the debris, and putting in a hoisting beam, all for an extra $86,000 on top of the other two-phase costs. All totaled, it would be an additional $147,495.

The board’s vote on Thursday changed the original transfer from $65,000 to $212,000 to cover all three options if necessary, Rozanski said. That would leave an available balance of $86,703 in the repair reserve, he said. 

At that September meeting, Interim Superintendent Scott Bischoping added that the district’s construction manager obtained second opinions on the recommended work and didn’t just go with Otis Elevator’s proposal.

“This isn’t just a one-company idea,” he said.

The board also approved Campus Construction Management’s proposed cost of $3,875 to conduct a feasibility study on the potential renovation expenses of Batavia Middle School. 

In other matters, School board members received some good news during the district’s annual audit Thursday. Christian Townes of Freed Maxick CPAs said the firm issued an “unmodified opinion” for the school district. 

 “Which is the highest level of assurance that we can provide,” she said.

The overall rating, having no significant deficiencies and having no material misstatements is “a testament” to the hard work the district invests into its financial-related statements, she said. 

“Financially, the district is in good shape,” she said. “Overall, you had a really great audit this year. It went smoothly and there are no negative matters to report to you.”

The board voted to accept and approve the final audited report, basic financial statements, and audited extra classroom activity financial statements ending June 30, 2021. 

Freed Maxick CPAs representative Christian Townes is expected to review the city school district’s audit during a presentation to the Board of Education this week.

The board’s meeting is set for 6 p.m. Thursday at Batavia High School’s library, 260 State St., Batavia. 

The board is slated to accept and approve the final audited report, basic financial statements, and audited extra classroom activity financial statements ending June 30, 2021. 

Time is allotted for public comments before the audit and several other presentations from district officials: Trisha Finnigan with an operations update; Scott Rozanski with a financial summary report; Kylie Tatarka with a student ex-officio report; and Scott Bischoping with an interim superintendent’s update.

Other orders of business include votes to approve several personnel-related retirements, resignations, leaves of absence, transfers, and new hires; a Memorandum of Agreement between the Batavia Custodial Association and the city school district; and an agreement between the district and Otis Elevator Company for the repair of the middle school elevator.

An inter-municipal agreement between Livonia Central School District and the Batavia district for shared remote/digital learning; and a revised agreement with Mary Cariola Children’s Center will also be up for a vote. 

The board is also expected to discuss and vote on a proposal from Campus Construction Management to conduct a feasibility study on the potential renovation costs of Batavia Middle School. The proposed cost is $3,875 and would include the impact a renovation would have on other district buildings. 

Board meetings may also be viewed online at:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8JI99xyBJt1sGdRzmCW2Kg

Anyone who would like to speak during a meeting may complete this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyKRcezlrZtf_o2bN8j7DyfLhYxYrDfGl3tYJyoeTJ87ZuKQ/viewform

Kaleb J. Bobzien is indicted on counts of strangulation in the second degree, criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation, two counts of harassment in the second degree, two counts of criminal mischief in the fourth degree, four counts of criminal contempt in the second degree, and three counts of tampering with a witness in the fourth degree. On June 24, in the Town of Batavia, Bobzien allegedly applied pressure to the throat of another person and caused that person to lose consciousness for a period of time. He's also accused of blocking the nose and mouth of another person, a person under age 17.  He also allegedly threatened a victim. He allegedly broke a vape pen that belonged to the victim. He also allegedly damaged the backpack of the underage victim. He allegedly violated an order of protection. He allegedly tried to stop a person from testifying in the case. 

Aaron M. Hatt is indicted on counts of burglary in the second degree, criminal contempt in the first degree, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, and aggravated family offense, criminal contempt in the second degree. Hatt is accused of entering a building on Broadway in  Alexander on April 28 with the intent to commit a crime within the building. He is accused of violating an order of protection at that time by intentionally harassing, annoying,  or threatening a person in that residence. He is accused of applying pressure to the throat of a family member.  There was a  child present at the time of the alleged offense. 

Robin S. Brooks is indicted on a count of bail jumping in the first degree.  Brooks is accused of failing to appear for a court hearing on April 20  or within  30 days of the scheduled appearance.

Cesar G. Molina is indicted on a count of driving while ability impaired by drugs as a felony because of a prior DWI conviction.  Molina is accused of driving under the influence on 29 December in the Town of Byron.

Jarrett C.  Coniglio is indicted on two counts of assault in the second degree, a  count of resisting arrest, and a count of obstructing governmental administration. Coniglio is accused of causing injury to a  police officer while attempting to stop the officer from performing his official duties on  July 23 in the Town of Alabama. He's accused of causing injury to another person with a glass bottle. 

Mark L. Farley is indicted on a count of criminal contempt in the first degree, a  count of unlawful imprisonment, a  count of harassment in the second degree, a  count of burglary in the second degree, and a count of criminal contempt in the second degree, On Dec. 31, Farley allegedly violated an order of protection at a  residence on  Harvester Avenue by striking or threatening another person. He allegedly restrained another person. He allegedly went into the building with the intent to commit a crime. 

James D. Weathers is indicted on a count of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree.  Weathers is accused of knowingly possessing a loaded Glock 19  handgun while in the Town of Stafford on  Oct. 31, 2020.

Connor L.  Andrews is indicted on a count of criminal possession of a  controlled substance in the fifth degree, a count of driving while ability impaired by drugs, and three counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th degree. Andrews was charged after being stopped in the Town of Le Roy on May 3. He was allegedly found in possession of cocaine, meth, Alprazolam, and Oxycodone.

Timothy J.  Passage is indicted on a count of criminal possession of a forged instrument in the first degree.  Passage is accused of trying to use a counterfeit $20 bill at the Tim Horton's in Pembroke on March 20.

Jamie A. Dutton is indicted on a  count of criminal mischief in the third degree, criminal trespass in the second degree, and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. Dutton is accused of damaging the property of another person valued at more than $250 on Feb. 27 at a location in the City of Batavia. He was allegedly unlawfully in a property with permission and in possession of cocaine.