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Farmer driving tractor in Pembroke killed after struck from behind on dark road

By Howard B. Owens

A Pembroke farmer was killed Friday evening after his tractor, hauling round bales of hay, was struck from behind by a northbound SUV on a darkened South Lake Road.

The Sheriff's Office investigating the accident and has identified the farmer as Roger A. Sweet.

According to area residents, Sweet raised goats at his small farm on South Lake Road and had a hay field on Maple Road. He regularly drove his tractor, loaded with hay on spikes, from his field on Maple Road to his place on South Lake.

The crash was reported at 5:54 p.m., approximately 70 minutes after sunset.

Preliminary indications are, according to sources at the scene, that he had minimal lighting and reflectors on his Massey-Ferguson tractor.

His wife reportedly heard the crash and rushed outside.

The driver of the 2017 Equinox that struck the tractor, Janet I. Miller, of Rochester, was not injured. The spike holding the back bale of hay on the tractor did not hit the vehicle squarely and did not penetrate the driver's compartment.

Sweet was pronounced dead at the scene by Coroner Karen Lang.

The accident is being investigated by Chief Deputy Joseph Graff, Sgt. Andrew Hale, Investigator Chad Minuto, Investigator James Diehl, of the Crash Management Team, Deputy Kyle Krzemien, and Trooper Kelli Fitch.

Assisting at the scene were members of the Pembroke, Alabama, Indian Falls, East Pembroke and Corfu fire departments, along with Mercy EMS, Dickinson's Auto Services, and Ron and Newt's Towing.

(Initial report)

SUV and hay wagon reportedly involved in accident in Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens

An SUV and hay wagon have reportedly collided in the area of 9341 South Lake Road, Pembroke.

Unknown injuries.

Pembroke and Indian Falls fire departments and Mercy EMS dispatched.

UPDATE 5:57 p.m.: Subject trapped under the hay wagon. Dispatchers checking the availability of Mercy Flight.

UPDATE 6 p.m.: Road being closed at Maple and at Cohocton. Corfu Fire Police requested to assist.

UPDATE 6:08 p.m.: Mercy Flight is canceled.

UPDATE 7:04 p.m.: This is a fatal accident. It appears the male driver of a Massey Ferguson tractor hauling a hay bale(s) was northbound on South Lake Road when he attempted to turn into his driveway and was rear-ended by a northbound SUV. The collision caused the tractor to snap in two and roll on top of the man. The SUV driver was not injured. The Crash Management Team is on site and preliminary indications are that the tractor had insufficient lighting and reflectors. The investigation continues.

Pembroke students selected to talk with astronauts on space station

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

In a rare and unique opportunity, several Pembroke students will make contact with astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) via amateur radio.

Pembroke was one of only seven schools worldwide selected for this round of contacts, which is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 10:28 a.m. in the auditorium of Pembroke Jr./Sr. High School in Corfu.

This activity is part of the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station Program (ARISS), which promotes learning opportunities as part of the Science, Technology, Education, and Math (STEM) initiative. This unique experience will provide an educational opportunity for Pembroke students to learn about wireless technology and radio science through amateur radio.

The ARISS event will be managed by an international consortium of amateur radio organizations and space agencies including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium at SUNY Buffalo State, and members of the Genesee County Radio Amateurs (GRAM) Club.

“This is a challenging and exciting opportunity for students to learn about space travel and exploration, how the astronauts live and work in space, and how students can – even at a young age – become radio amateurs for the emerging field of interplanetary communications,” said Melissa Payne Smith, a Science teacher at Pembroke’s Jr./Sr. High School.

Pamela Ware, Corfu resident and member of GRAM, holds an FCC amateur extra license and is the liaison for the team of radio operators who will provide hands-on training and experience for Pembroke students. She and Payne Smith – with the support of additional faculty, staff, and students at Pembroke – have spent several months coordinating their efforts in order to be chosen to speak with an astronaut at the International Space Station.

“From the minute Pam and I spoke, we believed that this would be an incredible opportunity for the students here at Pembroke," Smith said. "We spent hours planning, developing, and organizing our resources in the hopes of our school being selected. Multiple proposals were submitted, revised, and resubmitted during this process. It’s an honor for our school district to have been chosen for this."

Pembroke will continue to work with its partners to coordinate the exact date and time in January when students will be speaking with the International Space Station via amateur radio. In the weeks ahead, 20 Pembroke students will be chosen to participate in the transmission, and final technical preparations will take place.

This learning experience, multifaceted in academic and in real-world applications, has a much deeper meaning; students are learning that the sky, in fact, is not the limit.

Pembroke aims to top $100K raised with eighth annual 'Shooting for a Cure' game

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

In 2011 the Pembroke High School Girls’ Basketball Team approached then Head Coach Mike Wilson with an idea; they wanted to show their support for Toni Funke in her battle against breast cancer by hosting a game in her honor, which would bring the community together to raise funds and awareness for cancer research at Roswell Park.

This simple act of love eight seasons ago has now grown into one of Roswell Park’s largest community‑based fundraising events. To date, Shooting For A Cure! has raised more than $88,000 for cancer research, and this season, the team hopes to eclipse the $100,000 mark in total funds raised.

This year’s fundraiser (7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 10th vs. Notre Dame) will mark the eighth consecutive season the Pembroke team will be focused on winning—not just league games, but the battle against cancer. It’s a cause that remains personal to the team and their school district because of the number of students, faculty, staff and community members who have been affected by cancer.

“The Shooting For A Cure! game isn’t just a basketball game, it’s about trying to change peoples’ lives for the better. It’s about making a positive change in our community and using our platform as players to try and make a difference,” said senior Unique Bryant.

Since the inaugural game, each team—including all of the new members—looks for ways to widen the impact of the game.

“Our team has been looking forward to the Shooting For A Cure! game since last season; it’s our favorite game of the year. We rally together with the community and use this game as a means to fight alongside those currently battling cancer,” Unique said. “On a personal level, this game is extremely special to me, as my mother is a cancer survivor. When I was about 5-years-old, she was diagnosed and battled like a warrior. I have so much love and respect for her. She’s my hero."

Junior Casey Wurtz will be playing in her third Shooting For A Cure! game this year at the varsity level.

“Each game becomes more meaningful to me," Casey said. "Three of my aunts have battled cancer. Two of them are survivors, but sadly, one of them lost her battle. This disease has been tough on my family to say the least. My grandmother was just recently diagnosed as well, and I want to do all I can to support her. This game gives my teammates and me the opportunity to come together for a cause much bigger than us.

"This game brings us all together one night a year as a Pembroke community, united, in the fight against this disease. It’s overwhelming, in the best way, to share in such a night. When I look back on my years in high school, I will always remember playing in the Shooting For A Cure! games with my team and doing our best to support those in need while trying to find a cure for this awful disease."

The 2018-2019 Shooting For A Cure! donors list has grown to more than 100 merchants and individuals including: 26Shirts, ADPRO Sports, Batavia’s Original Pizzeria, Clarence Deli, Coca-Cola of Rochester, Courage of Carly Foundation, Crickler Vending, Dave & Adam’s Card World, Dixon Ticonderoga, Eli Fish, Fava Brothers Lawn Care, Fenton’s Produce, Five Guys, Haun Welding, Hershey’s Ice Cream, Insty-Prints, Kohorst Trucking, Linda’s Family Diner, moondanceCat, Northtown Automotive, Original Pizza Logs, Pillar Real Estate Investors, Silver Lake Country Club, Southwest Airlines, Tim Hortons, Yancey’s Fancy and the YMCA.

Many of the product donations will become game night auction baskets and raffle prizes. Monies will also be raised from apparel sales and food sales with the generous support of local companies.

“This year we will have some one-of-a-kind donation items on hand for our supporters to win," said event coordinator Mike Wilson. "A Corfu resident spent countless hours building a beautiful, rustic-style kitchen table with a matching bench and two chairs. Currently, two of our students are creating custom Adirondack chairs with a matching table in support of our mission.

"We were just recently donated four tickets to sit behind the Syracuse bench at an upcoming basketball game in March as well as four suite level tickets for a Sabres game in February. Dry Creek Group has again donated a fully catered dinner party for eight guests out in Hamburg and Fenton’s Produce just donated a helicopter ride for two over Niagara Falls.

"Southwest Airlines even donated a pair of roundtrip flights anywhere they fly in the U.S. in support of our Shooting For A Cure! mission. The generosity shown throughout our community, at every level, is overwhelming, to say the least. Our Pembroke community is unlike any other.

"It is remarkable how many people come out to support the team’s mission each season. What started off as a small act of love, in support of Toni Funke eight years ago, has now become a community-wide movement that we strongly believe in. We’ll continue Shooting For A Cure! at Pembroke until a cure is found."

In addition to these generous donations, the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) will again be donating an astounding $2,500 to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in support of Shooting For A Cure! this season.

“Roswell Park has done incredible things for our membership. It has helped so many of our members and their families battling cancer. We wanted to give back to Roswell as well as support the incredible efforts of the Pembroke Girls Basketball team,” said Western Region NYSCOPBA Vice President Joe Miano.

As a former Pembroke graduate and current resident, Miano is a firm believer in this cause.

“This group of young women, with the support of the Pembroke School District, continues to do great things for the community beyond the basketball court," Miano said. "It’s truly inspiring and we wanted to take this opportunity to reinforce their efforts.”

Miano, accompanied by a few additional members, will take part in a check presentation with the team to be held prior to the varsity game.

Additionally, the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation has revamped their online platform and developed a Team Roswell site. Direct online donations are now being accepted in support of Shooting For A Cure! at: http://give.roswellpark.org/goto/ShootingForACure

The team hopes Shooting For A Cure! will continue its tradition of topping the previous year’s fundraising total.

“Last year we were able to raise over $27,000 as a community for cancer research, which is just overwhelming when you think about it! We live in such a great community with caring people who really want to help in any way they can,” sophomore Emily Peters said.

“Playing basketball at Pembroke isn’t just about scoring points and winning games; it’s about doing what we can to pay it forward. It’s about coming together as a team, as a community, to support those fighting cancer and to try and do our part to help find a cure. This game brings our team together and it gives us a much greater purpose when we step on the court."

Roswell Park has officially sanctioned Shooting For A Cure! as a Team Cure, community events fundraiser and as a valuable example of the way that young people can make a difference.

“We continue to be impressed by the Pembroke Girls’ Basketball Team each and every season," said Alex Hoaglund, Team Roswell Special Events coordinator. "What an incredible legacy that 2011 team left, built on compassion and altruism. What each team has been able to accomplish since the first game is truly inspirational. Shooting For A Cure! is one of the top, if not the top, ongoing high school community events fundraisers for Roswell Park.

“This small community continues to do big things. At this moment Shooting For A Cure! has raised over $88,000 for cancer research at Roswell Park. I have a feeling this season they’ll eclipse the $100,000 mark in total funds raised earning them a ‘Leadership Circle’ distinction on our donor wall in the hospital lobby.

"Pembroke’s Shooting For A Cure! game is making a difference in the fight against cancer. The money they’re raising each season is funding cutting-edge research and saving lives. Team Roswell is so thankful to partner with this team and their community every year.”

Grand Jury: Man accused of injuring two deputies, striking woman, fighting with security at Jason Aldean concert

By Billie Owens

Robert A. Maharrey is indicted for the crime of disorderly conduct. It is alleged that on Aug. 10, at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center located in the Town of Darien Center, Maharrey engaged in fighting or with violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior by punching or striking a female patron in the face. In count two, he is accused of second-degree harassment for allegedly subjecting a female patron to physical contact, or attempting or threatening to do so. In count three, Maharrey is accused of disorderly conduct for allegedly engaging in fighting or with violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior with Live Nation Security staff members. In count four, he is accused of second-degree harassment for allegedly subjecting a Genesee County Sheriff's deputy to physical contact by spitting in his face. In count five, the defendant is accused of second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony, by allegedly intentionally preventing a Sheriff's deputy from performing a lawful duty and causing injury to the deputy. In count six, Maharrey is accused of assault on a police officer, a Class C violent felony, for allegedly intentionally preventing a second deputy from performing a lawful duty and causing serious physical injury to that deputy.

Jacob M. Balla Sr. is indicted for the crime of first-degree criminal contempt, a Class E violent felony. It is alleged that on Oct. 19 in the Town of Pembroke, in violation of an order of protection, that he struck, shoved, kicked or otherwise subjected the protected party to physical contact or attempted or threatened to do so. In count two, Balla is accused of second-degree harassment, a violation, for allegedly intentionally harassing, annoying or alarming the protected party by striking, shoving, kicking or otherwise subjecting the person to physical contact or attempting or threatening to do so.

Lashawn Brown-Dixie is indicted for the crime of aggravated driving while intoxicated, per se, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 17 Brown-Dixie drove a 2016 Chevrolet on Interstate 90 in the Town of Stafford while having a BAC of .18 percent or more. In count two, she is accused of DWI, as a Class E felony, for the same incident. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney's Office, Brown-Dixie is accused of having been convicted of DWI, as a misdemeanor, on Dec. 14, 2010 in Town of Marathon Court, County of Cortland, and the conviction was within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Truck strikes Thruway overpass in Pembroke

By Billie Owens

A truck struck the Thruway overpass at 797 Main Road, Pembroke. No injuries. Pembroke and Indian Falls fire departments are responding.

Possible transformer explosion reported on Main Road, Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens

A transformer may have exploded, causing wires to come down and starting trees on fire in the area of 857 Main Road, the location of Yancey's Fancy / Kutter's Cheese Factory, Pembroke.

Dispatchers have received a couple of calls reporting the incident.

Pembroke fire and Indian Falls fire dispatched.

UPDATE 1:39 a.m.: Pembroke and Indian Falls are back in service.

Law and Order: Ellicott Street man charged with strangulation, unlawful imprisonment and more

By Billie Owens

Manuel Mendoza-Stymus, 20, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, (inset photo, right) is charged with: second-degree strangulation; fourth-degree criminal mischief; second-degree unlawful imprisonment; and endangering the welfare of a child. The charges stem from an altercation on Dec. 21 at an apartment on Ellicott Street in Batavia wherein the defendant allegedly choked another person, held that person down against their will and took their cell phone when the victim attempted to call police for assistance. The incident also took place in the immediate proximity of a 5-month-old infant. Mendoza-Stymus was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in Genesee County Jail without bail. He was due back in court Dec. 24. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Chad Richards, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Daniel E. King, 42, of Pembroke, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested at 5:08 p.m. on Dec. 24 by troopers out of SP Batavia. Troopers were dispatched to Ye Olde Willow Bend Inn in the Town of Batavia for a larceny complaint. Upon arrival, the complainant advised troopers on scene that a green pickup truck pulled up next to the restaurant and tavern, then the front passenger exited the pickup and allegedly proceeded to steal a sign to the business. The registration and suspect description were provided to troopers and the information quickly led to the arrest of King. He was given an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia Town Court in January.

Emily D. Smith, 33, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with third-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child. Smith was arrested at 10 a.m. on Nov. 22 on Liberty Street on the charges and was issued an appearance ticket for Jan. 8 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Zachary Vernon Donald Seeley, 22, of Central Avenue, Batavia, and Krista Swan, no age or address provided, are both charged with petit larceny. They were arrested at 8:56 p.m. on Dec. 18 on West Main Street in Batavia after Tops Friendly Market reported a larceny in progress to Batavia Police Department. Police responded and located the suspects, who matched descriptions provided by Tops employees. Numerous items totaling $306.81 in value were recovered. The defendants were released on appearance tickets and are due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Jamie Givens.

Iszon C. Richardson, 18, of Lewis Place, Batavia, is charged with trespass. He was arrested on Dec. 21 after he allegedly entered and remained on the property of another person on Jackson Street in the City of Batavia without permission at 9:20 p.m. Dec. 20. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Kiha S. McNear, 21, no permanent address, Batavia, is charged with: second-degree criminal contempt -- disobeying a mandate (arrest warrant); harassment in the second degree -- physical contact resulting in arrest warrant; and execution of a bench warrant. McNear was arrested on Dec. 19. All three charges stem from separate cases, all with warrants. The defendant was issued three appearance tickets and then released. McNear is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Nicole McGinnis, assisted by Officer Eric Bolles.

Patrick M. Viscuso, 54, Evans Street, is charged with second-degree harassment and unlawful possession of marijuana. He was arrested at 4:33 p.m. Dec. 18 on Evans Street in Batavia following an incident wherein it's alleged that Viscuso struck another subject on the side of the face during an argument. Viscuso was allegedly also found to possess a small amount of marijuana at the time of his arrest. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Chad Richards, assisted by Officer Jamie Givens.

Guillermo Jose Torres-Acevedo, 22, of Collegeview Drive, Batavia, is charged with third-degree grand larceny and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. He was arrested on a warrant Dec. 21 following an investigation into an incident that occurred Nov. 29 at about 7 a.m. in the Town of Batavia. Torres-Acevedo allegedly stole a motor vehicle from a residence. He was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and jailed without bail.

Triton Adam Drock, 24, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree and failure to use headlights while operating windshield wipers. He was arrested on an outstanding Batavia City Court warrant issued for failure to appear on charges made Nov. 18. He was arraigned on Dec. 20 and is due in city court Jan. 17. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Good Samaritan gives lift to woman in motorized scooter trying to get to Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

Earlier, several callers reported a dangerous condition in the area of Brickhouse Corners -- a woman in a motorized scooter was driving on Route 5 along the shoulder, causing cars to swerve around her.

A police officer responded and shortly after locating her reported that a Good Samaritan stopped, loaded up her scooter in his vehicle and gave her a ride to her friend's in Batavia, which is where she was trying to get to.

CORRECTION: This wasn't the call at Brickhouse Corners. The woman in an electric wheelchair that was picked up was on Route 63 between Oakfield and Batavia.

Law and Order: Man faces eight felony charges for domestic incident on Jackson Street in the city

By Billie Owens

The victim of a domestic incident responded to the Batavia Police Department and an investigation determined that Iszon Richardson (right inset photo) allegedly violated a complete stay away order of protection.

Richardson is suspected of holding the protected party at their residence on Jackson Street and refusing to allow them to leave.

A short time later, the Batavia PD received information that Richardson had returned to the protected party's residence and police responded. Police did not release the date of the incident, but put out this report on Friday (Dec. 21).

They located Richardson hiding and he was taken into custody and charged with: four counts of first-degree criminal contempt -- Class E felonies; three counts of second-degree burglary -- Class C felonies; and one count of unlawful imprisonment in the first degree -- also a Class E felony.

Richardson was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in Genesee County Jail in lieu of $30,000 bail. He is to reappear in city court at a later date.

This case was investigated by Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Sgt. Christopher Camp, Officer Mitchell Cowen, Officer Chad Richards and Officer Jamie Givens.

Steven William Barnhardt, 27, of River Road, Pavilion, is charged with second-degree aggravated harassment and fourth-degree stalking. At 12:15 p.m. on Dec. 21, Barnhardt was arrested on the charges. After meeting a female a week prior, he allegedly continued to send text and Facebook messages and call the female, who lives on Barrville Road in Elba, after being advised to have to further contact. Barnhardt was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. An order of protection was issued by the court. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Investigator Joseph Loftus.

Gary David Doctor, 36, of Pembroke, is charged with: driving while ability impaired by drugs; unlawful possession of marijuana; driving left of pavement markings; having an unregistered motor vehicle; unauthorized sticker on rear window; and obstructed driver's view. On Dec. 20, Doctor was arrested on the charges, which stem from a motor-vehicle accident that occurred at 9:48 p.m. on Nov. 5 on Knapp Road in Pembroke. Doctor was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Pembroke Town Court on Jan. 22. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin Forsyth.

Damien M. Schoonmaker, 20, of Smith Street, Rochester, is charged with trespass. The defendant was arrested after allegedly driving around the property and racetrack of the Genesee County Fairgrounds at 1:43 p.m. on Nov. 30 without permission and causing ruts in the mud and grass. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Ronald Meides.

Law and Order: Victor man with flat tire suspected of aggravated DWI in Stafford

By Billie Owens

Justin Daniel Petrovic, 38, of Oak Ridge Drive, Victor, is charged with aggravated DWI, per se, with a BAC of .18 percent or more and no prior convictions; DWI -- first offense; and having an unsafe tire. At 8:14 p.m. on Dec. 16 on Main Road in Stafford, Petrovic was arrested after deputies checked on his vehicle, which was roadside. It is alleged that the defendant drove his vehicle on Route 5 when it became inoperable due to a flat tire. He was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Town of Stafford Court on Jan. 17. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jeremy McClellan, assisted by Deputy Joshua Brabon.

Adam Richard Stone, 47, of Read Road, Pembroke, is charged with: driving while intoxicated; operating a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .08 percent or more; moving from lane unsafely; and operating a motor vehicle without an inspection certificate. At 6:54 p.m. on Dec. 16, deputies responded to Slusser Road in the Town of Pembroke for a one-vehicle accident. Following an investigation, Stone was arrested. He was issued appearance tickets and is due in Pembroke Town Court on Jan. 22. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by Deputy Kyle Krzemien.

Kayne W. Probst, 24, of Lynn, Mass., is charged with one count of petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor. Probst was arrested by the Le Roy Police Department on Dec. 13 after they received a complaint of a larcent that had just occurred at a local store. It is alleged that the defendant took merchandise from the store without paying for it. Probst was taken into custody without incident and was arraigned in the Le Roy Town Court. Probst was jailed in lieu of $500 bail and is due in Le Roy Town Court today (Dec. 20).

James O. Boughton, 18, of Chili Riga Center Road, Churchville, was arrested on Dec. 10 by the Le Roy Police Department and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and disobeying a traffic control device, both violation-level offenses. While on patrol, Le Roy police allegedly observed the vehicle operated by Boughton pass through a red signal. Patrols executed a lawful traffic stop on Boughton’s vehicle, identified Boughton as the operator, and after a brief investigation allegedly found Boughton to be in possession of marijuana. Boughton was issued tickets and is to appear in the Le Roy Town Court on Jan. 17 to answer to the charges.

Law and Order: Oakfield woman accused of grand larceny, petit larceny and identity theft

By Billie Owens

Debra Lynn Mattoon, 39, of Batavia-Oakfield Townline Road, Oakfield, is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, petit larceny and third-degree identity theft. On Dec. 15, following the investigation into a larceny that occured in the City of Batavia at 2:15 p.m. on Dec. 3, Mattoon was arrested on the charges. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. She is due back in city court on Dec. 21. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Kevin Forsyth.

Jacob Joseph Camerera, 27, of North Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property, 4th, after he was allegedly found in possession of a firearm at 8:45 a.m. on Nov. 19 which had previously been reported stolen. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Chad Minuto.

Joseph A. Ciociola Jr., 20, of Pembroke, was arrested at 9:56 a.m. on Dec. 5 by troopers out of SP Batavia and charged with: criminal possession of a weapon, 4th; unlawful possession of marijuana; and possession of a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle; he was also cited with vehicle and traffic violations. Troopers stopped Ciociola on Akron Road in the Town of Pembroke for speeding. While interviewing Ciociola the odor of marijuana was allegedly present. During a probable-cause search of his vehicle, Ciociola was allegedly found to be in possession of marijuana, brass/metal knuckles, and two loaded and chambered firearms. Ciociola was issued appearance tickets and he is scheduled to appear before the Town of Pembroke Court later this month. 

Sath Paul Dhanda, 38, of Clapsaddle Road, Bethany, is charged with two counts of criminal contempt in the first degree. He was arrested on Ellicott Street in Batavia at 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 12 for allegedly violating an order of protection on two different occasions. He was arraigned and jailed without bail and was due in Batavia City Court on Dec. 13. The case was handled by Batavia PoliceOfficer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Sgt. Eric Bolles.

John Albert Snook, 30, of Oak Orchard Road, Albion, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt and unlawful possession of marijuana. At 2:20 a.m. on Dec. 15, Batavia police responded to a Jackson Street apartment for a 9-1-1 hangup call. While on scene, patrols discovered that Snook was on location in violation of a stay-away order of protection; he was also allegedly found to be in possession of marijuana. Snook was arraigned and jailed without bail and is due in Batavia City Court this afternoon (Dec. 17). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

Accident reported on Slusser Road

By Howard B. Owens

A motor-vehicle accident is reported in the area of 8144 Slusser Road, Pembroke.

Unknown injuries but the caller reports hearing somebody yelling for help.

East Pembroke fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.

UPDATE 7:02 p.m.: A deputy on scene hasn't found anything. The caller reported hearing two loud bangs and hearing somebody yelling for help and seeing a car. A chief on scene suggests the vehicle left. Now there's a suggestion to check the creek.

UPDATE 7:07 p.m.: The car is completely submerged under water. The driver is out and soaked. A chief asks for the ETA of the ambulance and says he'll need wetsuits. 

UPDATE 7:17 p.m: The patient is being transported to UMMC for evaluation. He was in the water for about two minutes. No injuries. Vitals within normal limits.

CLARIFICATION: It was the deputy on scene who suggested the car had left the scene after initially not being able to find it.

UPDATE 10:07 p.m.: Submitted photos added.

Pembroke students who read a book in October attend Bills game paid for by Lorenzo Alexander

By Howard B. Owens

The Buffalo Bills' Lorenzo Alexander sponsored a reading contest at Pembroke Intermediate School for the month of October. Any student who completed a book during October would be entered to win one of 15 tickets to a Buffalo Bills football game.

Yesterday, 15 students attended the game, all-expenses paid by Alexander.

"It was a cold day, and despite the upset against the Jets these 15 students and teacher chaperones had the time of their life," said Melessa Cleveland, whose daughter, sixth-grader Angelina, was among the 15 winners. "A very special thanks to Lorenzo Alexander for donating food and tickets for yesterday's game."

Photos by Mr. Brown. Info and photos submitted by Melessa Cleveland. 

Tanker truck on its side in front of the Flying J, Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens

A tanker truck is on its side, in a ditch, in front of the Flying J on Route 77 in Pembroke.

No injuries are reported. The driver is out and walking around.

No leaks are reported. The tanker is hauling motor oil.

The tanker is leaning against a utility pole. National Grid requested to the scene.

Traffic is not blocked.

Pembroke and Indian Falls fire departments responding. Mercy EMS can go back in service.

UPDATE 11 a.m.: A heavy wrecker is on scene and the plan originally was to use big airbags to help lift the truck so it could be uprighted. But when a DEC officer arrived he ordered that the oil be drained from the truck into another tanker before it is lifted out of the ditch. A trooper on scene would not provide information on the accident. We are attempting to get more information about the cause. One northbound lane is closed while crews work on removing the truck. The tanker contains 6,500 gallons of motor oil. The trucking company is from Limerock, Pa., though the truck has Ohio plates and the trailer has Idaho plates.

Attica beats Pembroke, 59-55

By Howard B. Owens

Pembroke fell to Attica in a Friday night matchup in Attica, 55-59.

Attica's Dawson Nelson led all scorers with 16 points. He also had 15 rebounds and two assists. Tyler Meyer added 13 points and Frankie Biscelgilie scored 15.

For Pembroke, Trevor Vaughn scored 14 points and Jarrod Ludwig scored 10 points.

From Attica Head Coach Rob Crawley:

"Attica Held Pembroke to five field goals in the second half, but Pembroke was 20-22 from the free-throw line. 

"I am incredibly proud of our team tonight. With it being such a later season opener for us, I was very concerned about going up against a well-prepared and well-coached team like Pembroke. We kept our composure from start to finish which shows a lot of growth from our players.

"We used our depth tonight nine players scoring for us. Bisceglie hit back-to-back 3s to start the second half. Nelson did a great job inside as well. All of our guys stepped up and accepted their role tonight to help us get the win."

Grand Jury: Man accused of stealing and defacing 13 firearms from The Firing Pin in Bergen

By Billie Owens

Morgan R. Coles is indicted for the crime of third-degree burglary, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 26 in the Town of Bergen that Coles knowingly entered or remained unlawfully in The Firing Pin with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, he is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the first degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on Oct. 3 in the City of Batavia that Coles possessed 10 or more firearms. In counts three through 15, Coles is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, Class D felonies, for allegedly possessing firearms which had been defaced for the purpose of concealment or prevention of detection of a crime or misrepresenting the identity of the fireaarm. Respectively, these are: a KelTec model PF-9 9mm pistol; a Glock model 19 9 mm pistol; a Glock model 45 9 mm pistol; a Glock model 27 .40 S&W pistol; a Glock model 19c 9mm pistol; a Glock G17 9mm pistol; a Glock model G43 9mm pistol; a second Glock model 27 .40 S&W pistol; a Glock model G21 .45 ACP pistol; a Glock 30S .45 ACP pistol; a Glock model 17 9mm pistol; a Glock model 22 gen 2 .40 S&W pistol; and a Glock model 24 9 mm pistol. In count 16, Coles is indicted for third-degree criminal possession of stolent property, a Class D felony, for allegedly knowingly possessing 13 stolen firearms and the value of the property exceeded $3,000.

Thomas E. Brenkus is indicted for the crime of first-degree sexual abuse, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on June 27 in the City of Batavia that he subjected another person to sexual contact by forcible compulsion. In count two, Brenkus is accused of forcible touching, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count two that on the same day in the city that he intentionally or for no legitimate purpose forcibly touched the sexual or intimate parts of another person for the purpose of degrading or abusing the person for the purpose of gratifying the defendant's sexual desire.

Edwin L. Stancliff is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on June 12 in the Town of Pembroke that Stancliff possessed a dangerous instrument -- a crowbar -- with intent to use it unlawfully against another person. In count two, Stancliff is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony. It is alleged in count two, that Stancliff possessed a dangerous instrument -- a crowbar -- with intent to use it unlawfully against a second person. In count three, Stancliff is accused on second-degree menacing, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in counts three and four, respectively, that on June 12 in the Town of Pembroke he intentionally placed or attempted to place two victims in reasonable fear of physical injury or death by displaying the crowbar. In counts five and six, respectively, Stancliff is accused of second-degree harassment for allegedly acting on that day with intent to harass, annoy or alarm the two victims with threat of physical contact. In count seven, the defendant is accused of tampering with a witness in the fourth degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count seven that, knowing a person is about to be called as a witness in a legal action or proceeding, the worngfully induces or attempts to induce, the person to avoid appearing or testifying. It is alleged that on Nov. 6, Stancliff sent a text message to a witness stating that the witness should not show up for the Grand Jury indictment and that if the person did, the person is "riding for the State" and that if the person was family they would not show up. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Stancliff is accused of having been convicted of third-degree menacing, a Class B misdemeanor, on Feb. 14, 2017 in Town of Pembroke Court and that conviction forms the basis for counts one and two of the current indictment.

Travis E. Kent, Jason N. Mann and David C. Edwards are indicted for the crime of attempted grand larceny in the third degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on July 3 on Broadway Road in the Town of Darien that these defendants attempted to steal property with a combined value in excess of $3,000 -- a Yamaha Wolverine four-wheeler and a Mongoose four-wheeler. In count two, they are accused of criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree, a Class D  felony. It is alleged in count two that the defendants knowingly possessed stolen property valued in excess of $3,000 -- a 2011 Chevrolet Impala. In count three, Kent, Mann and Edwardsare indicted for second-degree criminal mischief, a Class D felony. It is alleged in count three that the defendants intentionally damaged property belonging to another person and the damage exceeded $1,500 -- the 2011 Impala was damaged. In count four, they are accused of unauthorized use of a vehicle in the third degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly driving the Impala without the owner's consent.

Lisa D. Ayres is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on July 21 in the Town of Darien that she drove a 2007 Chevrolet on Route 77 and on McGregor Road while intoxicated. In count two, she is accused of DWI, per se, a Class D felony, for allegedly having a BAC of .08 percent or more at the time. In count three, Ayres is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony, for driving without a valid license -- which had been suspended or revoked -- and for being under the influence of alcohol or a drug at the time. In count four, the defendant is accused of the crime of circumvention of an ignition interlock device. It is alleged in count four that Ayres drove the 2007 Chevrolet which was not equipped with an ignition interlock device, which was required to have. In count five, Ayres is accused of the offense of refusal to submit to a breath test, a violation. It is alleged in count four that Ayres refused the request made by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Eric Meyer to submit to a breath test on July 21. In count six, Ayres is accused of the offense of failure to yield the right of way on a left turn. It is alleged in count six, that her failure to yield constituted an immediate hazard. In count seven, Ayres is accused of making an unsafe turn, a violation. In count eight, Ayres is accused of the offense of unsafe passing on the left. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Ayres is accused of having been convicted of DWI as a Class E felony on April 24, 2012, in County of Wayne Court. Also, she is accused of having been convicted of DWI, per se, as a misdemeanor on Nov. 18, 2009, in Town of Sodus Court. These convictions form the basis of the crimes alleged in the current indictment and the allegation that she knew her driver's license had been suspended or revoke by authorities due to the convictions.

Danielle R. Dixon is indicted for the crime of aggravated DWI, per se, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Aug. 27 on Main Street in the City of Batavia that Dixon rode a Yamaha motorcycle while having a BAC of .18 percent or more. In count two, she is accused of DWI as a Class E felony, in the same incident. In count three, Dixon is accused of operating a vehicle out of class, a violation. It is alleged in count three that the defendant rode the Yamaha without being the holder of a class of license which was valid for the operation of the motorcycle. In count four, she is accused of the offense of speeding at the time.

Joseph F. Chiodo is indicted for the crime of aggravated DWI, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on June 20 in the Town of Pembroke that Chiodo drove a 2004 Chevrolet on Route 33 while intoxicated and while a child age 15 or less was a passenger. In count two, he is accused of driving while ability impaired by the combined influence of drugs or of alcohol and any drug or drugs, as a misdemeanor. It is alleged that when he drove on June 20 on Route 33 his ability to drive was impaired by the combined influence of drugs or of alcohol and any drug or drugs. In count three, he is accused of endangering the welfare of a child, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly knowingly acting at that time in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental or moral welfare of a child less than 17 years old.

Stacy L. Parks is indicted for the crime of aggravated driving while intoxicated, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on June 27 in the Town of Darien that Parks drove a 2011 Ford on Route 20 while intoxicated and while a child age 15 or less was a passenger. In count two, Parks is accused of DWI, as a misdemeanor, for the same incident. In count three, the defendant is accused of DWI, per se, as a misdemeanor, for allegedly having a BAC of .08 percent or more at the time. In count four, Parks is accused of endangering the welfare of a child, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly knowingly acting in a manner that day which was likely to be injurious to the physical, mental or moral welfare of a child less than 17 years old.

Deborah S. Rodriguez is indicted for the crime of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Aug. 1 in the Town of Oakfield that Rodriguez drove a 2005 Nissan on Farnsworth Avenue while her driver's license was suspended and that she did so while impaired by the combined influence of drugs or of alcohol and any drug or drugs. In count two, she is accused of driving while ability impaired by a drug, as a misdemeanor, for driving on Aug. 1 while her ability to do so was impaired by the use of a drug. In count three, the defendant is accused of driving while ability impaired by the combined influence of drugs or of alcohol and any drug or drugs. It is alleged in count three that Rodriguez drove on Farnsworth Avenue that day while her ability to do so was impaired by the combined influence of drugs or of alcohol and drug or drugs. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Rodriguez is accused of having been convicted of DWI, per se, on July 5 in City of Batavia Court and her license was suspended. That suspension was still in effect on Aug. 1 pending prosecution of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Jay M. Blatchley is indicted for the crime of driving while ability impaired by the combined influence of drugs or alcohol and any drug or drugs, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on July 28 in the Town of Stafford that Blatchley drove a 2016 Toyota on Route 5 while his ability to do so was impaired by the combined influence of drugs. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Blatchley is accused of having been convicted of driving while ability impaired by drugs on Nov. 10, 2009, in the Town of Pembroke and that conviction was within 10 years of the crime alleged in the current indictment.

Michael J. Reeves is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a misdemeanor. It is alleged that on Aug. 4 in the Town of Pembroke that he drove a 2009 Lincoln on Route 77 while intoxicated. in count two, he is indicted for DWI, per se, as a misdemeanor, for allegedly having a BAC of .08 percent or more at the time. In count three, Reeves is accused of first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, a Class E felony, for having no valid driver's license, because it was suspended or revoked, at the time and while under the influence of alcohol or a drug. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, the defendant is accused of having been convicted of driving while ability impaired by the consumption of alcohol, an infraction, on Jan. 15, 2008, of Town of Sullivan Court. That conviction forms the basis of the driver's license revocation referred to in count three of the current indictment.

Andrew M. Cerrillo is indicted for the crime of drivng while intoxicated, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Aug. 14 in the Town of Stafford that Cerrillo drove a 2003 Toyota on Route 5 while intoxicated. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Cerrillo is accused of having been convicted of DWI, as a misdemeanor, on April 17, 2014, in the Town of Grand Island Court, and that conviction was within 10 years of the crime alleged in the current indictment.

Law and Order: Kelsey Road man faces two new felonies related to child porn case

By Billie Owens

David J. Somerton, 36, of Kelsey Road, Batavia, (in photo above) is charged with possession of obscene sexual performance by a child and use of a child in a sexual performance, both felonies. He was arraigned on the charges on Nov. 29 in Batavia Town Court. Somerton was initially arrested and arraigned on five counts of disseminating indecent material to a minor on Oct. 31 after investigation into a sex offense that occurred in the Town of Batavia Oct. 13. The new charges stem from further investigation and additional charges are pending. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Investigator Howard Carlson, assisted by Investigator/Youth Officer Timothy Westcott. The Genesee County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division was assisted by the FBI Buffalo field office.

Alvin Ezra Way, 57, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested at 9:06 p.m. on Dec. 1 on Colonial Way in Batavia for allegedly violating an order of protection by having personal contact with the protected party. He was issued an appearance ticket for Dec. 17 in Town of Batavia Court. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth, assisted by Deputy Erik Andre.

Christie Lynn Daniels, 22, of Council House Road, Basom, is charged with: DWI, speeding in excess of 55 mph, and unlicensed operation -- driving without a license. At 1:59 a.m. on Dec. 2 on Lewiston Road in Batavia, Daniels was stopped by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Young for allegedly speeding. After an investigation, it is alleged that Daniels was driving without a license and while intoxicated. She was issued appearance tickets for Dec. 17 in Batavia Town Court. Deputy Young was assisted in the case by Deputy Austin Heberlein.

Trisha A. Park, 26, of Le Roy, was arrested in the evening on Nov. 30th by the Le Roy Police Department and charged with: aggravated driving while intoxicated with a child passenger under 15 years of age inside the vehicle, a class E felony; operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs and endangering the welfare of a child -- both misdemeanors; unlawful possession of marijuana and inadequate headlights on a motor vehicle, both violations. At approximately 5:45 p.m. on Nov. 30th, patrols observed a vehicle operating without a headlight on Wolcott Street in the Village of Le Roy. Patrols initiated a traffic stop and interviewed the operator. While speaking with the operator, patrols allegedly noticed a strong marijuana odor emanating from the vehicle. A vehicle search would allegedly reveal marijuana as well as marijuana paraphernalia. After a brief investigation it was allegedly determined that Park was impaired by drugs. Park was taken into custody without incident and was evaluated by a Drug Recognizant Expert. Park was arraigned in Le Roy Town Court and released under supervision. Park is due back in court on Dec. 20th.

Frank L. Cortright, 60, of Route 77, Alabama, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief. It is alleged that at 12:15 p.m. on Nov. 30 on Pratt Road in Pembroke that Cortright intentionally damaged property belonging to another individual. He was issued an appearance ticket returnabled to Pembroke Town Court on Dec. 11. The case was handled by Genesee Coounty Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Stephen Michael Milroy, 24, of Perry Road, Pavilion, is charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of marijuana. At 3:42 a.m. on Dec. 1, Milroy was arrested on Park Road in Batavia after investigation into a report of an unconscious male sleeping in his vehicle in the Batavia Downs' parking lot. Milroy was processed at the jail and issued appearance tickets returnable to Batavia Town Court on Dec. 17. The case was handled by Deputy Andrew Mullen.

Christopher Jai Shawn Middleton, 24, of Dumont Avenue, Brooklyn, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and speeding. The defendant was stopped at 8:35 a.m. on Sumner Road in Darien on Nov. 29 for allegedly speeding. Investigation allegedly revealed he possessed marijuana. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Town of Darien Court on Dec. 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin McCarthy.

Accident reported on Knapp Road, Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens

A vehicle is off the road in the area of 6664 Knapp Road, Pembroke.

Possible injuries. Unknown what it struck.

Pembroke and Indian Falls and Mercy EMS dispatched.

UPDATE 9:53 p.m.: The driver is attempting to get out. A hydrant is sheared off, not leaking.

UPDATE 9:59 p.m.: Mercy can back it down to non-emergency.

Local Dev Corp to consider loan for Yancey's Fancy

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

The Genesee Gateway Local Development Corporation (GGLDC) will consider approving a revised and consolidated loan as well as two purchase and sale agreements for parcels in the Gateway II Corporate Park at the agency’s board meeting Thursday, Nov. 1st.

Yancey’s Fancy has requested the revision and consolidation of a January 2017 loan for an expansion project at the company’s town of Pembroke facility. A $233,449 loan from the corporation’s Revolving Loan Fund #2 will close out the fund in its entirety. It would be consolidated with two outstanding GGLDC loans for a total of $340,000.

Mega Properties, Inc. is seeking to purchase a 22.2-acre parcel of land at the Gateway II Corporate Park in the town of Batavia in order to construct a 60,000-square-foot facility. The company owns Mega Properties Inc., which also is located at Gateway.

Wellsville Carpet Town Inc. also is seeking to purchase a parcel of land at the Gateway II Corporate Park. Wellsville Carpet Town plans to construct a 15,000- to 20,000-square-foot facility for an outlet center at the site on approximately 2.9 acres. A purchase and sale agreement set the land price at $45,000 per acre. The company owns Ashley HomeStore, a business also located in the Gateway II Corporate Park.

Both Mega Properties Inc. and Wellsville Carpet Town Inc. may seek incentives from the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) in the future.

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