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Le Roy

Law and Order: Stringham Drive man faces eight felony drug charges

By Billie Owens

Joseph Allan Dean, 37, of Stringham Drive, Batavia, was arrested by the Genesee County Local Drug Task Force and members of the Batavia Police Department on Nov. 6. A Genesee County Court indictment warrant was issued for his arrest. According to the warrant, he is charged with two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony, and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, also a Class B felony. His arrest concluded an investigation into the transportation, sale and possession of cocaine in and around the City of Batavia. At the time of his arrest, Dean was allegedly found in possession of cocaine and other controlled substances. He was additionally charged with: criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree with intent to sell, a Class B felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree; possession of a narcotic drug -- one half ounce or more, a Class B felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, a Class D felony; and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Dean was arraigned in Genesee County Court and Batavia City Court and then released on his own recognizance. He is due back in court on Dec. 7. The Genesee County District Attorney's Office assisted in the investigation.

Kyle Douglas Clark, 30, of Fletcher Street, Tonawanda, is charged with second-degree harassment -- physical contact. At 1:30 a.m. on Nov. 15, Clark was arrested on Park Road in Batavia. It is alleged that Clark physically abused a staff member after an altercation at a hotel on Park Road. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia Town Court on Dec. 9. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush, assisted by Deputy Nicolas Chamoun.

Toby Matthew Cappotelli, 39, of Beadle Road, Brockport, is charge with: Felony driving while intoxicated; felony DWI with a BAC of .18 percent or more; moving from lane unsafely; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; and open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle; and speed not reasonable and prudent. He was arrested at 4:42 p.m. on Nov. 16 on North Street Road, Le Roy, after an investigation into a single-vehicle accident. He was issued traffic tickets returnable to Le Roy Town Court on Dec. 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Mathew Clor, assisted by Sgt. Andrew Hale.

Children haven't changed -- they run, play tag, laugh, and enjoy learning about local history

By Anne Marie Starowitz

In the '80s, I was a fourth-grade teacher for the Batavia City School District, and one of the many highlights of my career was teaching local history. This year, I was again able to show children where they came from through the lens of local history.

I had the opportunity to take my second-graders from St. Joseph Regional School on walking field trips to the Holland Land Office Museum. I am fortunate to meet with my students physically every day; this is not a reality for many schoolchildren.

Even though it is 2020 and the children use technology every day with Chromebooks, a tablet, or a computer, they still enjoy going back in time and learning about their history.

Every child chose a famous local person to learn about and research. With the help of their parents, the students visited various famous places in Batavia.

Since I had children from LeRoy, we also added their local history; they researched Ingham University, Orator Woodward, Herman LeRoy, and Stein Farms. I know the children and parents found this interesting. 

As we walked down Main Street and stopped at The First Bank of the Genesee, I told the story of Trumbull Cary. Our next stop was James Brisbane’s Mansion. They also enjoyed looking at the Upton Monument and learning about our famous Civil War hero, Union Colonel Emory Upton.

On our trip to the Historic Batavia Cemetery, the children connected with where their renowned person was buried. To see the children looking up at the height of William Morgan’s monument was priceless, or connecting the Richmond Memorial Library with the Richmond Mausoleum was a wonderful moment.

So, as they say, some things change, and some things stay the same; the children are the constant in my life as a teacher. Children haven’t changed. 

What is different in 2020 for all of our children is the coronavirus pandemic -- they sit at a desk 6 feet apart; they walk the halls wearing their mask and sanitize their hands entering the classroom and going out of the classroom. When they get a chance to go on recess, the children can run and skip, play tag, enjoy the playground equipment, and, most of all, just laugh.

I mostly enjoy their laughter and watching them run. I am so proud of them, so even though we live with the tangible specter of COVID-19, the children are still children and want to hear about Joseph Ellicott, Dean Richmond, and take a visit to the beautiful Historic Batavia Cemetery.

What I find so sad is that these young children don’t know what it was like before coronavirus.

They are missing sitting on a rug listening to a story, working in groups, singing in Glee Club, or playing sports. What they hear now is the humming of room air purifiers and the smell of disinfectants. Good thing that our history will never change.  

Hopefully, we will be able to return to “normal times,” and this, too, will become part of our past, not our day-to-day lives.

Photos courtesy of Anne Marie Starowitz.

Top, St. Joseph Regional School second-graders on the steps of the Brisbane Mansion, now housing the City of Batavia Police Department.

Below, St. Joseph Regional School students at the gravesite monument of Joseph Ellicott in Batavia Cemetery.

Bottom, teacher Anne Marie Starowitz stands behind her class in front of the Holland Land Office Museum.

Bryn Luckey becomes Le Roy's all-time leading scorer in soccer

By Howard B. Owens

Bryn Luckey became Le Roy's all-time leading scorer in girls soccer last Saturday and she was honored last night at home before the Knights' quarterfinal sectional game against Waterloo in Class B2.

Luckey's road to 80:

  • 2016-13
  • 2017-22
  • 2018-21
  • 2019-13
  • 2020-11

Le Roy beat Waterloo 5-0 to advance to the semifinals.

Photo and information submitted by Tim McArdle.

Law and Order: Myrtle Street man accused of driving impaired by drugs, fleeing from police, and trying to strike a deputy

By Billie Owens

Russell James Hamilton, 30, of Myrtle Street, Le Roy, is charged with: operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs -- first offense; unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, 3rd; second-degree menacing -- with a weapon; second-degree obstruction of governmental administration; and criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use. Hamilton was arrested in the Village of Le Roy after allegedly fleeing from a traffic stop that was made at 2:15 a.m. Sept. 7 on Main Road in Stafford. Hamilton is accused of fleeing from Genesee County Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush, who attempted to stop him for a vehicle and traffic law violation. It is alleged that Hamilton fled in his vehicle into the Village of Le Roy, with deputies in pursuit, then fled from his vehicle on foot, and was taken into custody shortly thereafter. While being taken into custody, it is alleged Hamilton tried to strike a deputy with a dangerous instrument. It is also alleged that Hamilton was driving while impaired by drugs. He was released on appearance tickets and is due in Le Roy Town Court on Dec. 1. Village of Le Roy Police Officer Austin Steinbrenner assisted in the case.

Robert D. Wood, 30, of Mill Street, Batavia, is charged with: second-degree harassment; first-degree criminal contempt; and second-degree burglary. At 2:44 p.m. on Nov. 11, Batavia Police Officer Peter Post arrested Wood after a domestic incident that occurred on Wood Street in Batavia. He allegedly entered the residence in violation of a stay away order of protection agains him and is accused of shoving a person there during an argument. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in Genesee County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash bail, $20,000 bond, or $50,000 partially secured bond.

Morgan Lee Cox, 52, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment -- physical contact. Batavia Police Officer Nicole McGinnis was made aware of an incident which took place at 6 p.m. on Nov. 8 on West Main Street in Batavia. It is alleged that Cox was involved in a physical altercation and that he punched a person in the face. He was arrested and released with an appearance ticket for Feb. 9 in Batavia City Court. Batavia Police Officer Austin Hedges assisted in the case.

Barbara C. Pridmore, 62, of Mechanic Street, Elba, is charged with: driving while intoxicated -- first offense; aggravated DWI -- with a BAC of .18 percent or more; moving from lane unsafely; obstructed view; and failure to obey traffic control device. Pridmore was arrested at 11:46 p.m. on Oak Street in the City of Batavia after a motor-vehicle accident in which a vehicle crashed into a telephone pole. She allegedly performed poorly on field sobriety tests, was arraigned in Batavia City Court, then processed at Batavia Police headquarters and issued traffic tickets. She is due in city court Feb. 17. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger, assisted by Officer Jordan McGinnis.

Ashley Ilene Hightower, 28, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. She was arrested following an investigation of a harassment complaint pertaining to an incident that occurred at 4:21 p.m. Nov. 8 on Bank Street, Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Feb. 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Wesley Rissinger.

Katherine J. Briggs, 41, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with false written statement. At 4:20 a.m. on Nov. 11, Briggs allegedly knowingly gave a false statement to a City of Batavia police officer. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Feb. 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jordan McGinnis.

Trailer fire reported in Pavilion

By Billie Owens

A trailer fire is reported at 7660 Telephone Road, Pavilion, well off the roadway. A propane tank is near the trailer. Pavilion Fire Department is responding and mutual aid from Le Roy is requested. It started after a pile of leaves was ignited. 

It's east of South Street Road, and west of Asbury Road. It's a working structure fire.

Exterior crews only are also called from Bethany and Stafford.

UPDATE 2:23 p.m.: Caledonia and York fire are also on scene. Asbury Road is closed at Telephone Road (Route 20). They have water on the blaze and are going to hook into a hydrant on South Street Road.

UPDATE 2:28 p.m.: The Le Roy fire auxiliary is being contacted to bring drinking water to the firefighters.

UPDATE 2:38 p.m.: The American Red Cross is called for the displacement at least three residents. National Grid is called to the scene.

Law and Order: River Street woman accused of selling crack cocaine twice to Drug Task Force agent

By Billie Owens

Jennifer M. Moore, 35, of River Street, Batavia, is charged with: two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony; and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that Moore sold crack cocaine to an agent of the Genesee County Local Drug Task Force on two separate occasions. Moore, who had an active arrest warrant, was located sitting in a vehicle that was parked in a parking lot on Park Road in the Town of Batavia, where she was taken into custody. She was also allegedly in possession of crack cocaine at the time of her arrest. Moore was arraigned in Genesee County Court and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice. The task force is comprised of law enforcement officers from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, the Batavia Police Department, and the Village of Le Roy Police Department. The task force was assisted by deputies and the District Attorney's Office.

James O. Weathers, 47, of Teralta Street, Rochester, and Ayeola N. Williams, 46, of East Path Rise, West Henrietta, were arrested on Oct. 31 on Route 33 in the Town of Stafford. At 12:38 a.m., Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore was on patrol in a marked Sheriff's vehicle and stopped their vehicle after observing a traffic violation. Williams was the driver and was put through field sobriety tests, which she allegedly failed. Further investigation and a vehicle search allegedly found marijuana and a loaded firearm. She is charged with: criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree -- a loaded firearm, which is a Class C felony; driving while ability impaired by alcohol, a violation; speeding -- over 55 mph, a violation; and operating a motor vehicle while having an open container of an alcoholic beverage in the vehicle. Her passenger, Weathers, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana in the second degree and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, too. The District Attorney was consulted for bail recommendations and the defendants were arraigned by Town of Alabama Judge Pamela Thurber via Skype due to COVID-19 protocols. Both were then put in jail with Williams bail set at $1,000 cash or bond; Weathers' bail was set at $15,000 cash or $30,000 bond. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Charlene Rae Cook, 31, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment, resisting arrest and second-degree criminal contempt. Cook was arrested after a domestic incident at 1:10 p.m. Oct. 25 on Liberty Street for allegedly violating an order of protection. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail on $5,000 cash bail, $10,000 bond, or $20,000 partially secured bond. She was due to return to city court on Oct. 28. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Nicole McGinnis.

Kevin Maurice McCoy, 54, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt and failure to appear in court as ordered. At 7:54 p.m. on Oct. 31, McCoy was arrested after allegedly violating a stay away order of protection by being in the presence of the protected party on East Main Street. There was also an arrest warrant for him out of Batavia City Court. McCoy was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail, with bail set at $1,500 cash, $3,000 bond or $6,000 partially secured bond. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Officer Samuel Freeman.

Brandon C. Dodd, 33, of Highland Park, Batavia, is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny -- theft of a motor vehicle; and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. At about 1 a.m. on Nov. 1, Dodd was arrested after the theft of a motor vehicle at a residence on Highland Park. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court via Skype and is due there on Nov. 10. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin, assisted by Officer Nicole McGinnis.

Mathew Ray Albaugh, 35, of Townline Road, Bergen, is charged with driving while intoxicated and speeding -- exceeding 55 mph. At 1:42 a.m. on Nov. 1, Albaugh was arrested on Townline Road in Bergen after a traffic stop for speeding. It is alleged he was driving over 55 mph while having a BAC of .08 or more. He was released on an appearance ticket to be in Bergen Town Court on Nov. 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore.

Kristen Elizabeth Sekuterski, 34, of Orleans Avenue, Batavia, is charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs -- first offense; and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. Following a "check-the-welfare complaint" at 10:04 a.m. Oct. 30 on Alleghany Road in the Town of Pembroke, Sekuterski was arrested. She was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Pembroke Town Court on Nov. 19. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin Forsyth, assisted by Deputy Ryan DeLong.

Justin D. McQuillen, 32, of Freeman Road, Byron, is charged with: driving while intoxicated -- with a BAC of .08 percent or more; DWI -- common law; and speeding. McQuillen was arrested Oct. 31 on Oak Street after allegedly being observed speeding at 8:52 p.m. He was released on appearance tickets and is due in Batavia City Court on Feb. 3. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Benjamin G. Evans IV, 32, of Federal Drive, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested Oct. 30 after allegedly not following court mandate on Oct. 19. Evans was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Nov. 10. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy  Jacob Gauthier, assisted by Kenneth Quackenbush.

Tricia Marie Ruth Martinez, 27, of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged with petit larceny. She was arrested after allegedly agreeing to purchase a Halloween costume from the victim and then taking the costume without paying for it at 5 p.m. Oct. 30 on Colby Road in Darien. Martinez was issued a ticket to appear in Darien Town Court on Dec. 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jacob Gauthier.

Walter Tomlin Snell, 32, of Byron Holley Road, Byron, is charged with failure to appear. He was arrested Oct. 26 when located by Genesee County Probation after allegedly failing to appear in court as scheduled. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on his own recognizance. He is due back in city court Nov. 18. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Le Roy's Nathan Griffin promoted to Private First Class in NY Army National Guard

By Billie Owens

Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the recent promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Nathan Griffin, from Le Roy, and assigned to the Company A, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry received a promotion to the rank of Private First Class on Sept. 30.

Army National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability, and development potential.

These promotions additionally recognize the best qualified Soldiers and attract and retain the highest caliber Citizen Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov or www.1800goguard.com

The New York National Guard (New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs) is the state's executive agency responsible to the Governor for managing New York's Military Forces, which consists of nearly 20,000 members of the New York Army National Guard, the New York Air National Guard, the New York Naval Militia and the New York Guard.

Photos: Le Roy children pick pumpkins from patch

By Howard B. Owens

Today was pumpkin patch day for students at Wolcott School in Le Roy.  Students walked through the patch and picked their own personal pumpkins to take home.

Law and Order: Man accused of driving wrong way on one-way street charged with pair of felony DWIs

By Billie Owens

Glennder J. Velez, 24, of Moulson Street, Rochester, is charged with: felony driving while intoxicated -- with a BAC greater than .08 percent; felony DWI -- common law; aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree; driving in the wrong direction on a one-way street; operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device. Velez was arrested at 8:14 p.m. on Oct. 23 on North Spruce Street in the city following a traffic stop. He was processed by Batavia police and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 6. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Cowen Mitchell, assisted by Officer Adam Tucker.

Joel Morales Cruz, 46, of Swan Street, Batavia is charged with: speeding; illegal turn signal -- made less than 100 feet from turn; failure to notify a change of home address; driving while intoxicated -- first offense; and operation of a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .08 percent or more. Batavia Police Officer Nicole McGinnis stopped Morales Cruz for allegedly speeding on Oak Street in Batavia at 4:38 a.m. Oct. 25. He was put through field sobriety tests, resulting in his arrested. He was processed then released with an appearance ticket for Jan. 26 in Batavia City Court. Batavia Police Officer Connor Borchert assisted in the case.

Russell J. Hamilton, 30, of Myrtle Street, Le Roy, was arrested and charged with second-degree criminal contempt on Oct. 26. The arrest follows an investigation of a violation of an order of protection that occurred at 1:19 p.m. on Oct. 21, when Hamilton allegedly sent the protected party a text message. He was released with an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia City Court on Jan. 26. Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson handled the case.

Donald V. Notaro Jr., 22, of Deumant Terrace, Tonawanda, is charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs -- first offense, and operating a motor vehicle with an inadequate headlight. Notaro was arrested after a traffic stop on East Main Street in Batavia at 11:45 p.m. on July 3. He was processed at Batavia Police Department and issued traffic tickets to be in Batavia City Court on Jan. 26. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger, assisted by Officer Joshua Girvin.

Russell J. Hamilton, 30, of Myrtle Street, Le Roy, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. At 4:58 p.m. on Oct. 26, Hamilton was arrested after an investigation allegedly revealed he violated a stay away order of protection by being at the the protected person's home on Dellinger Avenue in Batavia. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail on $2,000 cash bail, $4,000 bond, or $8,000 partially secured bond. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Jamie L. Soto, 45, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt. Soto was arrested at 3:19 p.m. on Oct. 25 after an investigation revealed Soto violated a stay away order of protection by allegedly having physical contact with the protected party. Soto was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Rosemary R. Waters, 34, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with having an unregistered motor vehicle and driving while ability impaired by drugs. Waters was arrested on Dellinger Avenue in the City of Batavia at 3:23 a.m. on Aug. 17. She is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 20. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Samuel Freeman, assisted by Officer John Gombos.

Jose Garcia, 35, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief. He was arrested after an investigation of an incident that occurred at 10:19 a.m. on Oct. 23 on South Main Street. Garcia is accused of kicking and damaging the front door of a residence. He was issued an appearance ticket then released. He is due in Batavia City Court on Nov. 10. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller, assisted by Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Brandon C. Dodd, 33, of Highland Park, Batavia, is accused of petit larceny. He was arrested Oct. 23 following an investigation of a larceny that occurred at 2:56 p.m. on Oct. 19 at Tops Friendly Market in Batavia. Dodd was released with an appearance ticket for Jan. 12 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Freeman Samuel.

Water main work resumes on North Road, Le Roy, tomorrow

By Billie Owens

From Tim Hens, Genesee County Highway Superintendent:

Water main work will be resuming on North Road between Conlon Road and Route 19, Town of Le Roy.

The road will be open to traffic, but there will be lane closures and temporary delays starting tomorrow, Oct. 28, at 7:30 a.m. through 5 p.m. each day for the remainder of the week.

Law and Order: Parolee jailed, accused of striking person in face multiple times in front of a child

By Billie Owens

Jon Hoyt Bush, 37, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with third-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child. On Oct. 16 Batavia Police Officer Peter Post responded to a residence on Oak Street in Batavia and arrested Bush following a domestic incident. It is alleged that earlier that day at 5:38 a.m., Bush struck a person in the face multiple times causing injury while in the presence of a child. Bush as arraigned in Batavia City Court at 3:15 p.m. and put in jail on a parole warrant. He is due to return to city court on Nov. 18.

Christopher Connor Good, 19, of Cohocton Road, Corfu, is charged with first-degree burglary. On Oct. 20, Good was arrested after an investigation. It is alleged that he unlawfully entered another person's home on Liberty Street in Batavia at 1:34 p.m. on Oct. 20 and caused physical injury to that person. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. An order of protection was issued to protect the victims. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Officer Nicole McGinnis.

Katie L. Wannemacher, 31, of Trumbull Parkway, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child, second-degree harassment, and criminal obstruction of breathing. She was arrested on Oct. 17 following an investigation of an incident at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 17 on Trumbull Parkway in which she allegedly choked someone in front of two children. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on her own recognizance. She is due back in court on Dec. 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Samuel Freeman, assisted by Officer Austin Hedges.

Sean Michael Keem, 40, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment -- with physical contact. Keem was arrested after Batavia Police officers Austin Hedges and Wesley Rissinger responded to a disturbance on Bank Street in Batavia at 8:27 p.m. Oct. 17. After an investigation, Keem was arrested for allegedly striking another person. He was released on an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Jan. 20.

Darrin Mitchell Brown, 31, of West State Street, Albion, is charged with possession of a hypodermic instrument. He was arrested after allegedly being found in possession of several hypodermic needles at on Oct. 19 during the course of a larceny investigation at 6:16 p.m. at the Speedway gas station and convenience store on West Main Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Jan. 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Marcella F. Greene, 36, of Pleasant Valley Road, Bliss, is charged with criminal possession of a needle and criminal use of drug paraphernalia. On Oct. 19, Greene was arrested after an investigation into a larceny at 6:51 p.m. at the Speedway gas station and convenience store on West Main Street in Batavia. Greene was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Samuel Freeman, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Thomas James Sine, 52, of Main Road, Stafford, is charged with aggravated second-degree harassment -- communication of a threat via phone or computer or mail. On Oct. 24 at 10 p.m. Sine was arrested after allegedly having unwanted contact with a person on West Bergen Road in Le Roy and making threats via cell phone. He was arraigned in Le Roy Town Court and is due to return there Dec. 14. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush.

Shante M. Griffin, 28, of Fisher Park, Batavia, is charged with owning an unlicensed dog. Griffin was arrested on Oct. 15 for having an unlicensed dog in an upper apartment on Fisher Park on Sept. 25. Griffin was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Andre L. Roberts, 28, of Burrows Street, Rochester, was arrested Oct. 21 on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court. He allegedly failed to appear as required on Sept.15, prompting the warrant to be issued. Roberts was processed at Batavia Police Headquarters and released on an appearance ticket to be in court Oct. 22. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Amanda S. Dombrowski, 37, of Versailles Road, North Evans, is charged with failure to appear. Dombrowski was arrested on Oct. 15 on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court. It is alleged she failed to appear in court as required on Aug. 3. Following arraignment, she was released on her own recognizance and is due back in city court on Oct. 28. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Grand Jury: Man accused of possessing handgun, cocaine and meth while on school property

By Billie Owens

Denzell A. Johnson is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, a Class C armed violent felony. It is alleged that on Jan. 30 Johnson possessed a loaded firearm -- a SCCY CPX-2 9-mm handgun. In count two, he is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony. In count three, Johnson is accused of criminal possession of a weapon on school grounds, a Class E felony. It is alleged in count three that on Jan. 30 he had the handgun while at Jackson Elementary School without written authorization of the educational institution. In count four, Johson is accused of criminal possession of a firearm, a Class E felony. In counts five and six, respectively, the defendant is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly possessing cocaine and methamphetamine that day. In count seven, Johnson is accused of criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count seven that he knowingly possessed gelatin capsules, glassine envelopes, vials or capsules or other material suitable for the packaging of individual quantities of narcotic drugs or stimulants for the purpose of unlawfully manufacturing, packaging or dispensing narcotic drugs or stimulants. In count eight, Johnson is accused of obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count eight that the defendant failed and refused to stop the vehicle he was operating when directed to do so by a Genesee County Sheriff's deputy, then fled on foot from his vehicle in an attempt to prevent the deputy from performing an official function as a police officer. In count nine, Johnson is accused of unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in third degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count nine that Johnson, knowing he had been directed by a uniformed police officer or marked police vehicle with activated lights or lights and sirens, attempted to flee by engaging in reckless driving. In count 10, Johnson is accused of reckless driving, a misdemeanor, by driving a 2006 Dodge on a public roadway Jan. 30 in a manner that unreasonably interfered with its free and proper use, or unreasonably endangered users of the roadway. In count 11, the defendant is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the third degree, as a misdemeanor, for driving while his privilege to do so was suspended by authorities. In count 12, Johnson is accused of unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, a violation, for driving without being duly licensed to do so. In count 13, Johnson is accused of knowingly using, possessing or displaying an imitation or counterfeit official certificate of inspection for the 2006 Dodge. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Johnson is accused of having been convicted of the crime of unauthorized use of a vehicle in third degree, a Class A misdemeanor, on March 2, 2015 in Town of Brighton Court and that conviction forms the basis for count two of the current indictment.

Donald Brown is indicted for the crime of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on Aug. 12 that Brown knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- with the intent to sell it. In count two, Brown is accused of the same crime for allegedly also possessing fentanyl with intent to sell it. In count three, the defendant is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree, a Class C felony, for allegedly possessing one or more preparations, compounds, mixtures or substances containing a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- and these had an aggregate weight of one-eighth of an ounce or more. In count four, Brown is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count four that Brown knowingly and unlawfully possessed a controlled substance -- suboxone. In count five, he is accused of criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count five that he knowingly possessed gelatin capsules, glassine envelopes, vials or capsules or other material suitable for the packaging of individual quantities of narcotic drugs or stimulants for the purpose of unlawfully manufacturing, packaging or dispensing narcotic drugs or stimulants. In count six, the defendant is accused of fourth-degree criminal mischief, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly intentionally damaging another person's property.

Kahel Suttles Jr. and Ericka K. McBride are indicted for the crime of third-degree grand larceny, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Feb. 23 in the Town of Batavia that they stole property valued in excess of $3,000 in merchandise from Target ($3,200.84). In count two, they are accused of fifth-degree conspiracy, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly agreeing to intentionally commit a felony. In counts three and four, Suttles and McBride are accused of criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly knowingly possessing stolen property -- clothing from Dick's Sporting Goods, and miscellaneous items from Marshalls. In count five, Suttles and McBride are accused of possession of burglar tools, another Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count five that they possessed tinfoil that they used to cover security tags to prevent sensors from being activated when merchandise was taken from the stores. In counts six and seven, the duo is accused of sixth-degree conspiracy, a Class B misdemeanor, for allegedly agreeing to steal property from Dick's Sporting Goods and Marshalls, respectively.

Kevin M. Waleski Jr. is indicted for the crime of second-degree burglary, a Class C violent felony. It is alleged that on June 26 Waleski knowingly unlawfully entered a dwelling on Ellicott Avenue in the City of Batavia with the intent to commit a crime. In counts two and three, he is accused of fourth-degree criminal mischief, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly intentionally damaging property -- stairway spindles, and a door frame and lock, respectively. In count four, the defendant is accused of resisting arrest, another Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly attempting to prevent a police officer from arresting him or another person on the same day. In count five, Waleski is accused of obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly intentionally attempting to obstruct a public servant from performing an official function and did so by means of intimidation, physical force, interference or unlawful act.

Ov Murphy is indicted for the crime of second-degree burglary, a Class C violent felony. It is alleged that on April 10 Murphy knowingly entered a building unlawfully, a unit on Highland Park, City of Batavia, with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, Murphy is accused of the same crime while using or threatening to use a dangerous instrument -- a knife. In count three, Murphy is accused of second-degree attempted assault, a Class E felony, for intentionally causing physical injury to a person by means of a dangerous instrument, a knife, in the commission of a crime. In count four, Murphy is accused of second-degree menacing, a Class A misdemeanor, for intentionally placing or attempting to place another person in reasonable fear of physical injury by displaying a knife. In count five, Murphy is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony, for possessing a dangerous knife with the intent of use it unlawfully against a person. In Special Information filed Genesee County District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Murphy is accused of having been convicted of the crimes of: attempted rape in the third degree, a Class A misdemeanor, on July 23, 1998 in Batavia City Court; driving while intoxicated, as a misdemeanor, on Oct. 2, 2003 in Batavia Town Court; two counts of second-degree criminal contempt, a Class A misdemeanor, on March 31, 2006 in Batavia City Court; a third count of second-degree criminal contempt on March 6, 2007 in Batavia City Court; and sex offender failure to report change of address/status within 10 days, a Class A misdemeanor, on May 3, 2007 in Batavia City Court. The convictions form the basis of count five in the current indictment.

Eric H. Hess is indicted for the crime of tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Feb. 25 in the Town of Le Roy that, believing evidence was about to be produced and intending to prevent that, Hess acted to conceal, alter or destroy it by employing force, intimidation or deception. Hess is accused of tearing open a bag of cocaine and dumping its contents in the backseat and floor area of Genesee County Sheriff's Patrol Car 13. In count two, Hess is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly unlawfully possessing a controlled substance that day -- cocaine.

Nicholas C. Doell is indicted for the crime of third-degree burglary, a Class D felony. It is alleged that sometime between Sept. 1 and 2, Doell knowingly and unlawfully entered a garage on Lippold Road in the Town of Darien with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, Doell is accused of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, a Class D felony, for taking a 1957 Ford Thunderbird, knowing he did not have the owner's consent, with the intent of using it in the commission of a felony. In count three, Doell is accused of aggravated family offense, a Class E felony, for allegedly committing the crime of second-degree criminal contempt -- an offense against his family or household member, in violation of a valid stay away order of protection. In count four, Doell is accused of a second count of aggravated family offense for allegedly committing the crime of second-degree criminal contempt -- an offense against his family or household member, by intentionally disobeying a mandate of the court -- a valid stay away order of protection. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Doell is accused of having been convicted of second-degree criminal contempt and fourth-degree criminal mischief on Aug. 31 in Darien Town Court. Those crimes were committed against the same family or household and the convictions took place within the last five years, in violation of the time frame specified in NYS penal law (240.75(1)).

Albert A. Ackerman is indicted for the crime of first-degree criminal contempt, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on July 15 at the Quality Inn and Suites Hotel on Park Road in the Town of Batavia that Ackerman violated a stay away order of protection. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Ackerman is accused of having been convicted of second-degree criminal contempt, a Class A misdemeanor, on Oct. 31 in Livingston County Court and that conviction was within five years of the crime alleged in the current indictment.

Eric J. McGill is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 2 in the area of Hutchins Place in the City of Batavia that he possessed a billy (expandable baton). In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, McGill is accused of having been convicted of: attempted making a terroristic threat, a Class E felony, on Nov. 10, 2008 in Orleans County Court; third-degree menacing, a Class B misdemeanor, on Sept. 7, 2017 in Town of Shelby Court; and attempted petit larceny, a Class B misdemeanor, on June 13, 2018 in Town of Albion Court. The convictions form the basis for the current indictment.

Deborah A. Schlonski is indicted for the crime of aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on March 16 Schlonski drove a 2005 Chevrolet on Griswold Road in the Town of Le Roy while knowing her privilege to drive was revoked by authorities and she did so while under the influence of alcohol or a drug. In count two, she is accused of driving that day on Griswold Road while ability impaired by drugs, a Class E felony. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Schlonski is accused of having been convicted of driving while intoxicated on March 14, 2019 in Town of Stafford Court. That conviction forms the basis for the revocation referred to in count one of the current indictment.

Warren D. Post is indicted for the crime of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 24 on Pearl Street Road in the Town of Batavia that Post drove a 2003 Chevrolet while under the influence of alcohol or a drug. In count two, Post is accused of driving while intoxicated, as a misdemeanor, on May 24. In count three, Post is accused of DWI per se, as a misdemeanor, for having a BAC of .08 percent or more that day. In count four, Post is accused of failure to keep right, a violation. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Post is accused of having been convicted of driving while ability impaired by the consumption of alcohol on June 18, 2018 in Coxsackie Town Court, Greene County, and that conviction forms the basis for the unlicensed operation referred to in count one of the current indictment.

Paul D. Hussey is indicted for the crime of bail jumping in the second degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Oct. 24, 2019 Hussey did not appear in Genesee County Court in connection with a charge against him as required when he was released from custody or allowed to remain at liberty, either upon posting bail or on his own recognizance, upon condition that he would appear on the required date or voluntarily within 30 days thereafter.

Woman arrested on drug charges after traffic stop on Griswold Road, Le Roy

By Billie Owens

From the Genesee County Sheriff's Office:

Rachelle N. Laney (inset photo right), no age and address provided, is charged with two felonies, seven misdemeanors and two violations after Genesee County Sheriff's deputies stopped the vehicle she was driving on Griswold Road in the Town of Le Roy on Sept. 10.

At 5:17 that afternoon, she was allegedly was observed using an "illegal turn signal" -- a vehicle and traffic violation. During the course of the following investigation, a license check allegedly found she was driving while her privilege to do so in New York is revoked by authorities.

Based on information that arose from an interview with Laney, NYS Trooper Shawn Gourdine and his canine partner "Ash" were contacted and requested to the scene.

Ash was deployed by Trooper Gourdine, allegedly resulting in a positive alert for narcotics inside the vehicle. It is alleged that a quantity of suspected narcotics were located, including a powdered substance and prescription medication, along with drug paraphernalia.

The suspected narcotics were sent to a laboratory for testing, which found the powdered narcotics to be a fentanyl mixture and the prescription medications were confirmed to be controlled substances.

She is chanrged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree, a Class C felony; two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor; three counts of criminally using drug paraphernalia, also a Class A misdemeanor; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree, an unclassified misdemeanor; aggravated unlicensed operation in the third degree, another unclassified misdemeanor; unlicensed operator -- a violation; and "illegal turn signal" -- a violation.

On Oct. 23, Laney was arrested and arraigned in Genesee County Court via Skype. In accordance with the NYS Bail Reform Law, the charges were not qualifying offenses so Laney was released on her own recognizance and is due to return to court at a later date.

St. Mark's church in Le Roy to get $10K from NY Landmarks Conservancy

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

The New York Landmarks Conservancy has announced eight Sacred Sites Grants totaling $140,000 awarded to historic religious properties throughout New York State, including $10,000 to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Le Roy to help fund window and exterior repair.

The parish was founded in a schoolhouse in 1804, and this 1869-1870 Gothic Revival building is the church’s second home. The building was built on the foundations of a former mill, and designed by prominent Rochester architect Andrew Jackson Warner. A parish hall wing was added at the rear of the church in 1957-1958, and was designed by Buffalo architect Robert North.

St. Mark’s reaches about 1,100 community members a year with such activities as a summer lunch program at Mill Street Park, which was doubled in size this year in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The Western New York Diocesan Deanery Project for Social Justice holds workshops for migrant farm workers at the church. The Le Roy History of Art Club uses space for meetings, and the Genesee Chorale has two concerts per year.

“We’re delighted our grants can help maintain these important institutions during this difficult time,” said Peg Breen, president, The New York Landmarks Conservancy.  “Throughout the pandemic, they have continued feeding and recovery programs, as well as health and cultural offerings to their communities.”  

The Sacred Sites Program provides congregations with matching grants for planning and implementing exterior restoration projects, technical assistance and workshops.  Since 1986, the program has pledged 1,559 grants totaling more than $12 million to 828 religious institutions statewide.

The New York Landmarks Conservancy

The New York Landmarks Conservancy, a private nonprofit organization, has led the effort to preserve and protect New York City’s architectural legacy for nearly 50 years. Since its founding, the Conservancy has loaned and granted more than $52 million, which has leveraged more than $1 billion in 1,850 restoration projects throughout New York, revitalizing communities, providing economic stimulus and supporting local jobs.

The Conservancy has also offered countless hours of pro bono technical advice to building owners, both nonprofit organizations and individuals. The Conservancy’s work has saved more than a thousand buildings across the City and State, protecting New York’s distinctive architectural heritage for residents and visitors alike today, and for future generations. For more information, please visit www.nylandmarks.org.

Photo courtesy of The New York Landmarks Conservancy.

Vehicle crashes into guardrail blocking traffic at Route 19 and Griswold Road

By Billie Owens

One vehicle crashed into a guardrail and injuries are reported on Route 19 at Griswold Road, near the Thruway entrance. The roadway is completely blocked, according to a first responder on scene. The entire guardrail is off its posts, laying across both lanes.

Le Roy fire and ambulance are responding. Traffic control will be needed and DOT was notified and will call a crew out there.

UPDATE 4:47 p.m.: The guardrail has been removed from the roadway. Le Roy fire is back in service. The scene is turned over to NYS Troopers. The DOT is assembling a crew to repair the guardrail. The patient refused medical attention; Le Roy ambulance is back in service.

UPDATE 5:16 p.m.: A first responder on scene estimates about 100 feet of the guardrail is damaged.

Le Roy woman accepts plea deal for illegally getting nearly $3K in SNAP benefits

By Press Release

From the Genesee County Department of Social Services:

Jillian Hupp, 30, of Le Roy, was sentenced to a one-year conditional discharge in Batavia Town Court on Tuesday, Oct. 20, after pleading guilty to one count of petit larceny.

An investigation by the Genesee County Department of Social Services allegedly revealed that Hupp failed to report that the father of her children was also residing in the home, and she failed to report his wages. Hupp subsequently received $2,776 in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) she was not entitled to.

She was originally charged with one count of fourth-degree grand larceny four counts of offering a false instrument for filing. Hupp accepted a plea deal to the reduced charge of petit larceny and was sentenced to the one-year conditional discharge, was also disqualified from receiving SNAP benefits for one year and has made full restitution to the Genesee County Department of Social Services.

Anyone wishing to report suspected cases of Welfare Fraud in Genesee County can contact the Genesee County Department of Social Services Investigation unit at (585) 344-2580, ext. 6417 or 6541.

More arrests linked to smash-and-grab burglary ring operating in six counties

By Howard B. Owens

Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter at a press conference today said a smash-and-grab burglary ring is responsible for more than 30 burglaries in six counties, including Genesee County.

On Sept. 16, GC Sheriff's deputies arrested two people who Sheriff William Sheron said are apparently part of the ring.  

Taken into custody and held on bail after allegedly being caught in the act of burglarizing the Crosby's at 6257 Clinton Street Road in Batavia were Jennifer D. Abrams and Tarus O. Fluitt.

On Sept. 28, Kristina Marble, Jose Cruz-Rosado and Eric Smith were arrested in Monroe County following a gas station burglary in Victor.

They are believed to have committed similar crimes in Genesee County, and all five individuals are suspected of being part of the same ring, Sheron said.

Their modus operandi is to smash out doors and windows and steal cigarettes and other items.

Sheron released a list of seven such burglaries in Genesee County:

  • Aug. 16, Batavia Crosby's on Clinton Street Road. Troopers handled the case and details are not available at this time;
  • Sept. 2, Bergen C-Store, 8073 Clinton Street Road, Bergen. Approximately $3,500 in cigarettes stolen, $325 in damages;
  • Sept. 13, Byron Crosby's, 6890 Byron Holley Road, Byron. Approximately $5,500 in cigarettes stolen, $180 in lighters, and $1,130 in damage;
  • Sept. 13, Bergen C-Store, a 20-pound propane tank used to smash the front door; the burglars failed to gain entry. The damage estimate is $325;
  • Sept. 16, Le Roy Kwik Fill, 7010 W. Main St., Le Roy. Attempted burglary. Front door smashed with rocks but no entry. Estimated damage: $1,000. The subjects captured on video appear to be Abrams and Fluitt;
  • Sept. 16, Batavia Crosby's, the location where Abrams and Fluitt were captured;
  • Sept. 20, Pavilion Farms, 11091 Lake St., Pavilion. Troopers also handled this case.

More from our news partner 13WHAM.

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Four GC students named to dean's list at SUNY Morrisville

By Billie Owens

MORRISVILLE -- SUNY Morrisville recently announced those students who were named to the dean's list for the Spring 2020 semester. To be named to the dean's list, a student must achieve a 3.0 to 3.99 grade-point average for the semester and complete 12 credit hours.

  • Shelby Brandes, of Stafford
  • Jack Doemling, of Le Roy 
  • Joseph Lane, of Byron 
  • Emily Mikel, of Stafford 

SUNY Morrisville's curricula are enriched with applied learning and pave the way for opportunity at both the Morrisville and Norwich campuses. An action-oriented, interactive learning lab, the college is a national leader in technology and has been lauded for its exemplary, innovative and effective community service programs.

The college was ranked among the Best Regional Colleges in the North by U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges 2021 issue and was also recognized in the Top Public Schools, Regional Colleges North in the 2021 Best Colleges rankings. For more information about SUNY Morrisville, visit or connect with us at: www.morrisville.eduFacebookTwitterInstagramYouTube.

Buffalo State welcomes eight new Bengals from Genesee County to Class of 2024

By Billie Owens

Buffalo State is pleased to welcome the Class of 2024 to campus. The new Bengals started class on Aug. 31, 2020.

  • Clayton Allen, of Le Roy 
  • Lukas Cochran, of Batavia 
  • Morgan Harrington, of Elba 
  • Tyler Keller, of Corfu 
  • Benjamin Paserk, of Batavia
  • Samuel Pringle, of Bergen 
  • Kristina Simon, of Oakfield 
  • Brianna Smith, of Oakfield

Buffalo State is a State University of New York (SUNY) college located in Buffalo. The college offers 79 undergraduate majors as well as many minors and certificate programs. Every year, thousands of students benefit from Buffalo State's community engagement, hands-on learning opportunities, and affordable SUNY tuition. Buffalo State also offers more than 60 graduate programs.

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