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Stafford

Oneida County man arrested in more Genesee County stolen vehicle cases

By Billie Owens

Edward G. Ruckdeschel, 58, of Marcy, Oneida County, is charged with: third-degree burglary and four counts of third-degree grand larceny, all Class D felonies; and three counts of fourth-degree grand larceny, a Class E felony.

His arrest was announced today after an investigation that began last July into stolen vehicles in Genesee County.

Ruckdeschel is currently incarcerated in a NYS prison, following his conviction in previous stolen vehicle cases in Genesee County and his sentencing for the crimes on Aug. 10.

Following his conviction last summer, Ruckdeschel was arrested on suspicion of stealing two more vehicles on Aug. 10 and Aug. 11 and those two grand larceny charges remain pending in Genesee County Court.

Altogether there are ongoing investigations concerning seven stolen vehicles. Ruckduschel was arraigned in town courts in Batavia, Pembroke, Stafford, Le Roy and Bergen. He is due to appear in county court on all charges May 4.

The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Office investigators Joseph D. Loftus and Kevin P. Forsyth.

Law and Order: Two men arrested for first-degree rape

By Billie Owens

Hezekiah N. Burch, 19, (inset photo right) is charged with: two counts of first-degree rape with forcible compulsion, a Class B felony; first-degree sex abuse with forcible compulsion, a Class D felony; and attempted sex abuse in the first degree with forcible compulsion, a Class E felony. The charges allegedly stem from separate incidents on Hutchins Place over a one-month time frame earlier this year involving a child less than 15 years of age. Burch was arrested at 6:15 p.m. March 29 after a sex abuse investigation. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail in lieu of $40,000 cash bail, $60,000 bond, or $80,000 partially secured bond. He was due back in city court April 2.

Kyle J. Gugel, 35, (inset photo left) was arrested in the City of Batavia for allegedly violating an order of protection, illegally entering a residence and forcibly raping a victim at 9:30 a.m. on March 18 on West Main Street. He was arrested at 9:30 p.m. March 31 and charged with first-degree criminal contempt, a Class E felony; first-degree rape, a Class B felony; and second-degree burglary, a Class C felony. No court, jail or bail information provided.

Alejandro Rodriguez, 24, was arrested at 5:30 p.m. on March 28 and charged with: third-degree assault, a Class A misdemeanor; and second-degree robbery, a Class C felony. It is alleged that at 5:09 p.m. March 28 that Rodriquez was involved in a domestic incident on Dellinger Avenue in Batavia wherein he punched a woman in the face and stole property from her. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail in lieu of $2,500 cash bail, $5,000 bond or $7,500 partially secured bond. Rodriguez is due back in city court tomorrow (April 6).

Adam M. Jellison, 43, was arrested at 9:30 p.m. on March 25 following an investigation of a domestic incident that occurred Jan. 1 on Columbia Avenue in Batavia. He is charged with first-degree criminal contempt, a Class E felony, and second-degree strangulation, a Class D felony. Following his arraignment in Batavia City Court, he was jailed without bail.

Jeffrey J. Keily, 51, of Hidden Pond Lane, Walworth, is charged with: driving while intoxicated -- first offense; aggravated DWI per se -- with a BAC of .18 percent or more; operating a motor vehicle without insurance; and drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle on a highway. Keily was arrested at 7:37 p.m. April 3 on Clinton Street Road in Stafford after deputies were dispatched for a report of an erratic driver. After an investigation, it is alleged Keily had a BAC of more than three times the legal limit. He was released with appearance tickets to be in Stafford Town Court on April 21. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush, assisted by Deputy Jonathan Dimmig.

Kerwin Rey Vega, 33, of Flint Street, Rochester, is charged with: driving while intoxicated -- with a conviction within the last 10 years; aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree; DWI with a child passenger less that 16 years old (child is 11); operating a motor vehicle while having an open container of alcohol; operating a motor vehicle without an ignition interlock device; and refusal to take a breath test. At 1:12 a.m. on April 4, Vega was arrested after a traffic stop in the Town of Bergen. Vega was released on appearance tickets and is due in Bergen Town Court on April 14. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Rae Cook, 32, was arrested and charged with second-degree harassment at 7:30 p.m. March 30 after multiple disturbances at a Batavia residence. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court tomorrow (April 6).

Kristen Marie Owens, 32, of Main Road, Stafford, is charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs and speeding in excess of 55 mph. She was arrested at 7:59 p.m. April 2 on Route 237 in Stafford after a traffic stop. She was issued appearance tickets in be in Stafford Town Court on April 15. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Sgt. Andrew Hale.

Shane Crites, no age provided, was arrested on an active warrant out of Lamar County Sheriff's Office in Paris, Texas, where he is considered a fugitive from justice. He was arrested after a traffic stop at 11:13 p.m. March 25 on West Main Street Road in Batavia at Colonial Boulevard. Crites was arraigned in Batavia City Court then put in jail to await extradition to Texas. He is due back in Batavia City Court on April 22.

Paula Pierce, 29, was arrested on a Batavia City Court Bench Warrant on March 18 for failure to appear in court. Pierce was located after she called police to report an unrelated incident on State Street. She was released on an appearance ticket and is due in city court April 8.

Amanda Maben, 42, was taken into custody in St. Lawrence County on March 24 on a Batavia City Court Bench Warrant. She was arraigned in Wyoming County Court on a Wyoming County warrant in addition to the Batavia warrant. She was released on her own recognizance and is due in city court April 28.

Law and Order: Pair of Batavia men arrested on felony drug charges

By Billie Owens

Anthony J. Welch aka "Science," 40, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony, and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, also a Class B felony. It is alleged that Welch sold a quantity of crack cocaine to an agent of the Genesee County Local Drug Task Force, comprised of officers from the GC Sheriff's Office and Batavia Police Department. Welch was taken into custody during a traffic stop on Clinton Street Road in the Town of Stafford (date and time not provided). He also had a bench warrant out of Genesee County Court for pending drug charges from last May. He was arraigned in county court, then released under supervision of Genesee Justice. The task force was assisted by uniformed deputies, a NYS officer from the Department of Environmental Conservation, and the DA's office.

Stephen Richard Hart, 34, of Cedar Street, Batavia, is charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree -- with intent to sell; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree; speeding in excess of 55 mph. At 10:46 a.m. on March 21, Hart was arrested after a traffic stop on Route 33 in the Town of Bergen. It is alleged that he possessed one or more preparations of a narcotic drug with an aggregate weight of one-eighth ounce or more, with intent to sell it. He was arraigned in Bergen Town Court and released on his own recognizance. He is due in Genesee County Court on May 5. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Suspect in firearms incident Sunday morning also charged in Sept. 9 high-speed chase

By Howard B. Owens
     Charles Jackson

A man evading a traffic stop in Stafford on Sept. 9 may have been able to outrun a Motorola* that day but police believe they've caught up with him after arresting a suspect in a firearms incident Sunday morning in the City of Batavia.

Charles L. Jackson, 26, of Garson Street, Rochester, faces multiple criminal charges stemming from Sunday's incident as well as the Sept. 9 incident. 

Sunday's incident began at 2:28 a.m. at the Speedway gas station at the corner of Main and Oak streets with the report of a person "not acting normal." Batavia police officers arrived on the scene and found three people inside a vehicle. An officer reported spotted a firearm inside the vehicle and when the officer attempted to secure the weapon a struggle ensured. The officer discharged his service weapon. 

Nobody was hit by the bullet or bullets.

The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Jackson, was able to free himself and flee in the vehicle, leading police on a high-speed chase the ended when the vehicle crashed on Woodland Drive in the Town of Batavia. Jackson and two other occupants were then taken into custody without further incident.

The only injuries sustained as a result of the confrontation were to Jackson and the other occupants of the vehicle, who have not been identified by law enforcement.

Jackson was taken into custody by Sheriff's deputies and charged with criminal possession of a weapon, 2nd, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd (he allegedly possessed large-capacity magazines). He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and ordered held on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.  

The other occupants of the vehicle have not been charged.

Following his arrest, Jackson was identified as the suspect in the Sept. 9 chase, which started with a traffic stop in the Town of Stafford where a deputy allegedly observed marijuana in the vehicle. The driver in that case fled and allegedly hit speeds over 100 mph. The driver made it to Route 490 and fled toward Monroe County and exited at Brooks Avenue and with apparent damage to the vehicle slowed to 30 to 40 mph before stopping. The driver fled on foot and was able to evade capture.

In that incident, Jackson is charged with two counts of reckless endangerment, unlawful fleeing a police officer, obstructing governmental administration, and criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th. On those charges, Jackson was arraigned in Town of Stafford Court and released on his own recognizance.  

Chief Shawn Heubusch, Batavia PD, said any charges related to the incident in the city are being incorporated in the Sheriff's investigation.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.

*Editor's note: *New York lexicologist / etymologist / linguist Barry Popik says "you can't outrun a Motorrola" is a version of the law enforcment saying "you can't outrun a police radio."

Law and Order: Man arrested on felony drug charges, accused of menacing with a knife

By Billie Owens

Shawn A. Peterkin, 43, no address provided (inset photo, right), was arrested at 4:45 p.m., March 2, and charged 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 D felony; unlawful possession of marijuana in the second degree; second-degree menacing; and fourth-degree criminal mischief. It is alleged that Peterkin threatened another person with a knife at a residence on West Main Street in Batavia and damaged property inside. He is accused of leaving the scene. He was found in the backyard of a residence on Woodrow Road, where he allegedly damaged a fence. Peterkin was arrested and allegedly found to be in possession of a large amount of crack cocaine, fentanyl, prescription pills and marijuana. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail without bail. He is due back in Batavia City Court on April 7.

Nina Esterbrook-Kelso, 36, no address provided, is charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child in the second degree. She was arrested at 5:06 p.m., March 1, on Columbia Avenue in the City of Batavia. It is alleged that she left THC-laced edible candies in a place where they were accessible to children. She was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on May 12.

Aaron Zimblis, 57, no address provided, was arrested Feb. 27 on Vine Street in the City of Batavia after a physical altercation that occurred in an upper apartment at 3:40 that afternoon. He is charged with second-degree harassment and second-degree strangulation. After his arrest, he was issued appearance tickets to be in Batavia City Court on May 4.

Lisa Fox, 49, no address provided, is charged with: criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument; speeding; operating a vehicle while its registration is suspended; and operating a motor vehicle with no license plate displayed. She was arrested at 10:12 p.m. March 5 on Clinton Park in Batavia after allegedly being observed speeding on East Avenue. She was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on May 11.

Robert Gerety Jr., 47, no address provided, arrested at midnight on Jan. 26 and charged with first-degree criminal contempt. During an unrelated traffic stop on West Main Street in Batavia, he was found to have an active warrant for his arrest out of Batavia City Court. He was put in jail (bail status not provided) and is due back in court April 1.

Robert Gerety Jr., 47, no address provided, is charged with: second-degree criminal contempt; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; operating a vehicle in violation of an ignition interlock device restriction; unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle; and uninspected motor vehicle. He was arrested at 9:48 p.m. on Feb. 28  on West Main Street at Dellinger Avenue in the City of Batavia after a traffic stop. It was discovered that he was in violation of an order of protection because he allegedly had the protected party in his vehicle at the time of the traffic stop. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court, then jailed without bail. He is due in city court again on April 1.

David Michael Weaver, 45, of Torrey Road, Bethany, is charged with second-degree harassment. He was arrested at 4:20  p.m. on March 13 on Torrey Road in the Town of Bethany. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Town of Bethany Court on April 27. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jonathan Dimmig, assisted by Deputy Kyle Tower.

Joseph Grant Blair III, 29, of West County House Road, Albion, is charged with: operating a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .08 percent or more; driving while intoxicated; moving from lane unsafely; and failure to dim head lamps. At 12:15 a.m. on March 13, Blair was arrested after a traffic stop on Akron Road in the Town of Pembroke. He was released with appearance tickets for Pembroke Town Court on April 14. The case was handled by Alejandro Jordan, assisted by Deputy David Moore.

Kristen Lazarony, 36, no address provided, was arrested after a traffic stop at 10:29 p.m. March 3 on West Main Street at Ellicott Street in the City of Batavia. She is charged with: driving while intoxicated; DWI with a BAC of .08 percent or more; failure to keep right; and failure to use designated lane. It is alleged she had a BAC of .16 percent at the time of her arrest. She was issued tickets then released from custody. Lazarony is due in Batavia City Court on June 8.

Julie Roesser, 31, no address provided, was arrested at 9:30 p.m. March 8 on West Main Street at Montclair Avenue in the City of Batavia after a traffic stop. She is charged with driving while intoxicated with a BAC of .08 percent or more, DWI, and having no head lamp or an inadequate head lamp. She was released with tickets to be in Batavia City Court on June 15.

Steven Gerard Conway, 60, of Circle Court, Williamsville, is charged with driving while intoxicated -- first offense; aggravated DWI; no seat belt; and impeding traffic. He was arrested at 7:20 p.m on Main Road in Pembroke and was released with an appearance ticket to be in Pembroke Town Court on April 29. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien, assisted by Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush.

Erica Lynn Lamkin, 31, of Warsaw Road, Pavilion, is charged with: driving while intoxicated; operating a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .08 percent or more; and speeding in excess of 55 mph. At 11:25 p.m. March 14, Lamkin was arrested on Main Road in Stafford. She was released with an appearance ticket for Stafford Town Court on April 15. The  case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Shuvon Williams, 55, of East Avenue, Batavia, was arrested at 8:56 p.m. Jan. 30 after turning herself in on an arrest warrant out of Batavia City Court alleging custodial interference. She is accused of violating a custody agreement by not returning a child as specified in the agreement. Williams was issued an appearance ticket for June 8 in Batavia City Court.

Grace Crystal Murray, 21, of Pratt Road, Batavia, is charged with third-degree criminal trespass. At 6:39 p.m. March 7, Murray was arrested after entering Walmart in Batavia and remaining inside unalwfully after previously being banned from the property. She is due in Town of Batavia Court on April 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Zachary Hoy, assisted by Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Nateeka Gibson, 31, no address provided, was arrested March 8 on a warrant out of Batavia City Court stemming from an petit larceny incident Jan. 4. It is alleged that she stole $20 from a person on Bank Street while she was a guest at their residence. Gibson was arraigned virtually in Batavia City Court while she was in Monroe County Jail on unrelated charges. She was held on one dollar cash bail and is due in city court April 14.

Six GC students recognized for academic achievement at SUNY Oswego

By Billie Owens

SUNY Oswego recently recognized Genesee County residents as high academic achievers on its President’s List and dean's list for the fall 2020 semester.

President's List students are those attaining semester grade-point averages of 3.8 or higher while carrying required academic credits. Students on the President’s List include:

  • Alexis N. Begin, Corfu, Communication

  • Collin J. Knapp, Byron, Journalism, History

  • Chase N. Monachino, Batavia, History

Deans' List students are those attaining semester grade-point averages between 3.3 and 3.79 while carrying required academic credits. Students on the Deans’ List include:

  • Charles T. Burton, Batavia, Creative Writing 

  • Kelsey Kasmarek, Stafford, Criminal Justice 

  • Tyler Wakula, Batavia, Public Relations 

SUNY Oswego enrolls nearly 8,000 students in more than 110 academic majors across its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; School of Business; School of Communication, Media and the Arts; and School of Education. For more information, visit oswego.edu.

Stafford's Emily Mikel named to President's List at SUNY Morrisville

By Billie Owens

SUNY Morrisville recently announced that Emily R. Mikel, of Stafford, was named to the President's List for the Fall 2020 semester. Emily is majoring in Dairy Management -- BT.

To be named to the President's List, a student must achieve a perfect 4.0 average for the semester and complete 12 credit hours.

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.edu.

Le Roy woman, 73, killed in collision with garbage truck

By Billie Owens

From the NYS Police:

On March 4, at 11:12 a.m., Troopers out of SP Batavia responded to a two-vehicle collision on State Route 237 and East Morganville Road in the Town of Stafford.

Further investigation revealed that a 2010 Kia was traveling east on East Morganville Road and stopped at the stop sign at State Route 237. The Kia proceeds into the intersection, not yielding the right of way and was struck on the driver side by a 2002 Peterbilt refuse truck traveling south on State Route 237.

The operator and only occupant of the Kia, Ann K. Wood, 73, of Le Roy, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Collision Reconstruction Unit assisted in this investigation.

This is still an ongoing investigation.

Accident reported on 237 in Stafford

By Howard B. Owens

A two-vehicle accident with possible entrapment and a person possibly unconscious is reported in Stafford at Route 237 and Randall Road.

Stafford fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.

UPDATE 11:47 a.m.: This was reportedly a T-bone accident. Another caller reports the driver is unconscious.

UPDATE 11:18 a.m.: Mercy Flight requested to the scene.

UPDATE 11:22 a.m.: The accident involved a garbage truck and a passenger vehicle.

UPDATE(S) (By Billie) 11:27 a.m.: Mercy Flight, which was in air en route to the scene, is cancelled. More manpower requested to the scene for traffic control.

UPDATED 2:46 p.m.: This was a fatal accident. NYS Police at the scene declined to provide further information at this time.

UPDATE 2:53 p.m.: Stafford fire is back in service. Randall Road is being reopened; Route 237 will remain closed for a little while longer until tows can remove the vehicles.

Law and Order: Walnut Street man arrested after back-to-back domestic incidents on Valentine's Day

By Billie Owens

Cody A. Bush, 35, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with: two counts of third-degree assault; fourth-degree grand larceny; and two counts fourth-degree criminal mischief. Bush was arrested Feb. 14 after an investigation into physical domestic incidents at an upper apartment on Walnut Street at 5:09 p.m. and again at 6:03 p.m. that day. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail (bail, if any, unspecified). He was due back in city court Feb. 18. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer John Gombos.

Terry Marvin Conrad, 57, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree menacing -- with a weapon, and criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree -- with a previous conviction. Conrad was arrested after police responded to a domestic incident involving weapons that occurred on South Main Street at 11:59 a.m. Feb. 21. After an investigation it is alleged that Conrad menaced a person with a knife after engaging in a physical altercation with that person. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on his own recognizance. Conrad is due to return to city court on April 7. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Nicole McGinnis, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

Jamie A. Dutton, 28, of South Platt Street, Albion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. Dutton was arrested Feb. 27 after a lab report was received by the Monroe County Crime Lab. The defendant was allegedly found to possess 1.081 grams of cocaine after an incident at 8:04 p.m. Feb. 23 on McKinley Avenue in Batavia. Dutton was issued an appearance ticket to be in City of Batavia Court on April 20. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Connor Borchert.

Cody Lee Pahuta, 29, of Alleghany Road, Darien, is charged with: driving while intoxicated -- first offense; refusal to take a breath test; and failure to keep right on a two-lane road. At 12:53 a.m. Feb. 27, Pahuta was arrested after a traffic stop on Alleghany Road. After an investigation, he was allegedly found to be driving while intoxicated by alcohol. He was released with appearance tickets and is due on Darien Town Court March 16. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush, assisted by Deputy Erik Andre.

Dustin Corey Herzog, 32, of Albion Eagle Harbor Road, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested Feb. 23 and is accused of stealing property from a business on East Main Street in Batavia on July 1. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and then released on his own recognizance. Herzog is due back in city court April 1. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Antonio Joseph Pisa, 19, of Hollow Hill Lane, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana in the first degree. At 1:10 a.m. Feb. 19 on Clinton Street Road in Stafford, Pisa was allegedly found in possession of marijuana, homemade marijuana pills and crystallized THC following a traffic stop. Pisa was released on appearance tickets and is due in Stafford Town Court March 18. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Law and Order: Woman of accused of brandishing knife at officer, man accused of forcibly touching a person

By Billie Owens

Alicia M. Lyons, 41, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, is charged with: petit larceny; menacing a police officer; and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. Lyons was arrested on Feb. 5 following an investigation of a larceny that occurred at 5:37 p.m. that day at the Kwik Fill on Jackson Street in the city. When confronted by law enforcement, Lyons allegedly brandished a knife toward a police officer. She was arrainged in city court and was due there on Feb. 10. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Lucas H. Benjamin, 69, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with forcible touching. He was arrested at about 2:20 p.m. on Jan. 28 after allegedly inappropriately touching an employee at a business on Bank Street in the city. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on March 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens.

Jason L. Jones, 49, of 76 Road, Brooktondale, is charged with: trespass; first-degree reckless endangerment; second-degree assault; and operating a vehicle with suspended registration. On Feb. 8, Jones was located on Jefferson Avenue in the City of Batavia and taken into custody without incident on an arrest warrant out of city colurt. The warrant stems from an incident on Dewey Avenue in Batavia that occurred at 5:25 a.m. Dec. 16. It is alleged that Jones struck a female with his vehicle during a domestic incident, causing injury to the victim. Jones was arraigned and put in jail on $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 bond or $8,000 partially secured bond. Jones is due in city court March 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Alexander L. Baldwin, 32, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with third-degree grand larceny. He was arrested Feb. 8 after a fraud complaint on North Street in the city alleging that he was paid money for a construction job he never began. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court, released under supervision of Genesee Justice and is due back in court April 15. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer John Gombos.

James Erick James, 41, of West Creek Drive, Webster, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and second-degree harassment. He was arrested Feb. 12 on a warrant out of Town of Bergen Court and transported to Genesee County Court for virtual arraignment. His case stems from an incident (unspecified) that occurred at 4:43 p.m. on Dec. 14 on Route 33 in Bergen. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Chad Cummings.

Daniel Myles Macleod, 33, of East Main Street, Corfu, is charged with: aggravated driving while intoxicated; aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree; driving while intoxicated -- with a previous offense; circumventing a required ignition interlock device; refusal to take a breath test; speed not reasonable and prudent; and operating an unregistered motorcycle. Macleod was arrested Feb. 13 at 4:22 p.m. after an investigation of a  motor-vehicle accident that occurred at 5:45 p.m. Nov. 27 on Alleghany Road in Darien. Macleod was issued traffic tickets and is due in Town of Darien Court on April 6. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jonathan Dimmig, assisted by Deputy Kyle Krzemien.

Patrick Thomas Fuhr, 61, of Union Street, Cheektowaga, is charged with: reckless driving; obstructing governmental administration in the second degree; failure to signal, operating an unregistered motor vehicle on a public highway; and aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree. At 4 p.m. on Jan. 29, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies attempted to contact Fuhr on Buffalo Road in Bergen, and he allegedly tried to flee the scene once they made contact. He is due in Bergen Town Court on March 3. The case was handled by Deputy Ryan Young.

Brandon C. Smart, 43, of Highland Park, Batavia, is charged with: harassment in the second degree; criminal trespass in the second degree; and criminal mischief in the fourth degree. Smart was arrested after a domestic incident on Liberty Street that occurred at 11:15 a.m. on Feb. 8. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. He is due in city court on March 25. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Connor Borchert.

Shaun Marquise Dukes, 39, of Elba Street, Rochester, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operator of a motor vehicle in the first degree; unregistered motor vehicle; and uninspected motor vehicle. On Feb. 12 Dukes was arrested at 8:43 a.m. on Route 33 in Stafford after a traffic stop. It is alleged that Dukes was operating a motor vehicle and had a revoked non-driver indentification card with 27 suspensions/revocations. Dukes was released with appearance tickets and is due in Stafford Town Court on March 16. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Randy L. Ridd, 63, of Williams Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested after an investigation of an incident that occurred at a business on East Main Street in Batavia at 11:28 a.m. on Feb. 7. It is alleged Ridd took laundry detergent pods from a store without paying for them. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on April 27. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Connor Borchert, assisted by Officer Joshua Girvin.

Alicia M. Lyons, 41, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. She was arrested after an investigation of a larceny that occurred at 3:11 p.m. on Jan. 29 at the Kwik Fill on Jackson Street in the city. She was released with an appearance ticket to be in city court April 13. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Cameron Jacob Sokolowski, 28, of River Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested Feb. 5 after a shoplifting complaint at a store on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia at 10:58 a.m. It is alleged he stole items from the store. He was taken to jail then released on an appearance ticket to be in Batavia Town Court on March 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien, assisted by Deputy Mathew Clor.

Stafford couple flat-out disputes 'Prognosticator of all Prognosticators'

By Billie Owens

For the record, people of Genesee County please know that at least one couple residing here takes issue with the 2021 foretoken of the season's weather revealed Tuesday.

That would be Stafford denizens Walt and Kathleen Kershenski.

"My Wife and I are going to dispute Punxsutawney Phil’s Prognostication regarding six more weeks of Winter," Walt declared in an email to The Batavian.

They have evidence, they claim, that puts the lie to the outlook of a world-famous woodchuck in the state below ours.

As everyone knows, on Feb. 2 furry Phil is awoken early by members of his "inner circle," all dressed to the nines, at Gobbler's Knob, borough of Punxatawney, Jefferson County, Pa. The rodent, a member of the family Sciuridae (belonging to the group of large ground squirrels known as marmots), manifests itself outside his earthen den to see if he can see his own shadow.

If the little seer does, as was the case the day before yesterday, lore has it that the end of this drear is not near.

In fact, there's suppose be a winter storm tomorrow and Saturday, dumping up to nine inches of lake effect snow, with wind gusts up to 45 mph, prompting the staunchly prescient Kershenskis to, hypothetically, yodel in unison "Pshaw!"

"To our surprise, on Groundhog Day this week we saw a flock of birds land in our crabapple tree next to our bird feeders," says Walt. "It was a flock of at least 20 to 25 robins. They stayed for a while and feasted on the crabapples and then left. Unfortunately I did not have my camera nearby, so I could not get a picture."

But we can imagine it nonetheless.

And know that monotonous chill will give way to green and warmth, that forsythia will suddenly sprout -- yellow as Harvey Ross Ball's original Smiley Face, and we'll be the happier for it.

"We just wanted to boost people's spirits," Walt says, adding hopefully "and maybe there will be an early spring after all?"

Car hits pole at Fargo and Route 5, Stafford

By Howard B. Owens

A car has reportedly hit a utility pole, with wires down, at Fargo Road and Main Road, Stafford.

Stafford fire along with Mercy EMS dispatched.

Grand Jury: Woman accused of ID theft; Fargo Road victim got her medical bills

By Billie Owens

Donna Hartman is indicted for the crime of second-degree identity theft, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on July 6 in the Town of Dalton, Livingston County, that Hartman knowingly and intentionally assumed the identity of another person in order to benefit herself monetarily in an amount exceeding $500. It is alleged in the first count that she presented herself to Livingston County Ambulance staff as a person residing on Fargo Road in Stafford, resulting in an ambulance bill for $835 to be sent to the victim. In count two, she is accused of the same crime at Noyes Memorial Hospital, resulting in a bill for hospital service to be sent to the same victim for $732.65. In counts three and four, Hartman is accused of falsifying business records in the first degree, also a Class E felony, for her actions to cause ambulance service records and also hospital business records to reflect false information regarding her name and address.

Jorge L. Rodriguez is indicted for the crime of second-degree criminal mischief, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Aug. 22 on the Thruway that he intentionally damaged property belonging to another person -- a 2017 Chevrolet -- in an amount exceeding $1,500. In count two, Rodriguez is accused of second-degree reckless endangerment. It is alleged that he drove recklessly that day, in a manner that created substantial risk of serious physical injury. He is accused in count two of purposely ramming his vehicle into the victim's vehicle while another victim was standing between the two vehicles.

Amanda M. Webb is indicted for the crime of criminal mischief in the third degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Nov. 1 in the City of Batavia that Webb intentionally damaged property belonging to another person -- a 2009 Chevrolet -- in an amount exceeding $250. In count two she is accused of second-degree harassment. It is alleged in count two that Webb, with intent to harass, annoy or alarm another person, struck, shoved, kicked or otherwise subjected a victim to physical contact or threatened to do so.

Lawrence D. Williams is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a forged instrument in the first degree, a Class C felony. It is alleged that on Oct. 4 while at Walmart in Batavia that he passed a counterfeit $100, knowing it was not real, with the intent to defraud.

Joshua G. Bachorski is indicted for second-degree burglary, a Class C violent felony. It is alleged that on Oct. 9 Bachorski knowingly entered or remained unlawfully in a dwelling on Pearl Street in the City of Batavia with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, he is accused of third-degree burglary, a Class D felony, for likewise entering an outbuilding at the same address on that date with the same intention. In count three, he is accused of petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly stealing a lawnmower owned by the victim.

Taylor K. Laird is indicted for the crime of aggravated driving while intoxicated, per se, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 28 in the City of Batavia that she drove a 2002 Dodge on Pearl Street while having a BAC of .08 percent or more, and while a child age 15 or less was a passenger. In count two, Laird is accused of aggravated DWI, a Class E felony, while a child age 15 or less was a passenger. In count three, Laird is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree, another Class E felony, for driving that day while her license was suspended or revoked by authorities, and while she was under the influence of alcohol or a drug.

Chad M. Putney is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a misdemeanor. It is alleged that on March 30 in the Town of Le Roy that Putney drove a 2008 Ford on Route 5 while he was intoxicated. In count two, he is accused of DWI, per se, as a misdemeanor, for having a BAC of .08 percent or more at the time. In count three, he is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony, for having in effect three or more suspensions at the the time, imposed on at least three separate dates: Feb. 3, 2018; Dec. 8, 2018; and July 15, 2019 for failure to answer, appear or pay a fine.

Pickup truck rollover accident reported in Stafford

By Billie Owens

A rollover accident involving a pickup truck is reported in Stafford at 6305 East Bethany - Le Roy Road. One occupant was entrapped and unresponsive; but has now been extricated. Other occupant(s) -- out and walking around.

Stafford Fire Department is called to the scene along with mutual aid from Corfu and ambulances from Mercy medics and Le Roy.

The location is between Transit and Roanoke roads.

UPDATE 11:09 p.m.: Bethany fire was also called to the scene. Bethany and Corfu are back in service. Mercy medics are en route in emergency mode to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester with one patient and Le Roy is also headed there with one patient. Correction: Bethany and Corfu each had separate calls at the same time. 

Grand Jury: four people indicted on drug-dealing charges

By Billie Owens

Andrea A. Arteaga is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on May 18 in the Village of Le Roy that Arteaga knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug -- methamphetamine/amphetamine -- with intent to sell it. In count two, the defendant is accused of criminally possessing a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony. It is alleged in count two that on May 18 while on Bacon Street in the Village of Le Roy that he possessed a firearm -- a pistol. In count three, he is accused of driving while ability impaired by drugs, a Class E felony. It is alleged in count three that on May 18, he drove a 2015 Chevrolet on Route 5 in Le Roy while his ability to do so was impaired by drugs. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Arteaga is accused of having been convicted of driving while intoxicated as a Class A misdemeanor on Oct. 22, 2018 in Town of Batavia Court and that conviction forms the basis for counts two and three of the current indictment.

Randy J. Dumbleton is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on June 17 in the City of Batavia that Dumbleton knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- with intent to sell it. In count two, he is accused of criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony, for allegedly knowingly and unlawfully possessing a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- with the intent to sell it. In count three, the defendant is accused of driving while ability impaired by the combined influence of drugs or alcohol, as a misdemeanor. It is alleged in count three that on June 17 in the City of Batavia that he drove a 2003 Honda on Main Street, Dellinger Avenue and Washington Avenue, while his ability to do so was impaired by the combined influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Angela R. Bateman is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on Aug. 12 in the City of Batavia that Bateman knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- with intent to sell it. In count two, she is indicted for criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on the same day she also possessed the narcotic fentanyl with intent to sell it. In count three, Bateman is accused of criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged that she knowingly possessed scales and balances designed for weighing or measuring controlled substances -- for the purpose of unlawfully manufacturing, packaging or dispensing any narcotic drug or stimulant. In count four, Bateman is indicted for the crime of promoting prison contraband in the first degree, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Aug. 24 she knowingly and unlawfully introduced a dangerous contraband -- fentanyl -- into a detention facility -- the Genesee County Jail.

Darius L. Jones is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on June 24 in the City of Batavia that Jones knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- with intent to sell it. In count two, he is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony, for allegedly possessing a narcotic drug -- fentanyl -- that day with intent to sell it. In count three, he is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree, a Class D felony, for having cocaine weighing 500 mg or more. In count four, he is accused of criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. In count four, it is alleged that Jones possessed gelatine capsules, glassine envelopes, vials, capsules or other materials suitable for the packaging of individual quantities of narotic drugs or stimulants, for the purpose of unlawfully manufacturing, packaging or dispensing them. In count five, Jones is indicted for criminal trespass in the third degree, a Class B misdemeanor. It is alleged in count five that Jones unlawfully entered property on North Spruce Street in the city. In count six, Jones is accused of unlawful possession of marijuana in the second degree, a violation, for allegedly possessing marijuana June 24 in the City of Batavia.

Chaniah L. Wellington-Martino is indicted for the crime of third-degree attempted assault, a Class B misdemeanor. It is alleged that on Aug. 7 in the Town of Stafford that she acted with intent to cause physical harm to a Genesee County Sheriff's investigator and did so by trying to bite him on the left arm. In count two, she is indicted for the crime of resisting arrest. It is alleged that on that day in Stafford that she intentionally prevented or attempted to prevent a police officer from arresting her and that she fought with the officer and attempted to bite him. In count three, she is accused of obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count three that the defendant attempted to grab contraband from a person during a lawful arrest, that she tried to prevent her detainment, and she pulled away from the officer while he attempted to remove a personal item that was entangled around her arm. In count four, Wellington-Martino is accused of tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony. It is alleged in count four that she threw a purse containing marijuana down an embankment. In count five, she is accused of the same crime as in count four for allegedly trying to retrieve drugs from her co-defendant's pocket. In count six, Wellington-Martino is accused of unlawful possession of marijuana in the second-degree, a violation, for allegedly knowingly possessing marijuana that day in Stafford. In count seven, she is accused of a vehicle and traffic law infraction -- pedestrian failure to walk facing traffic, for allegedly failing to walk on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing oncoming traffic.

William R. Metz is indicted for the crime of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, a Class C violent felony. It is alleged that on April 4 in the Town of Oakfield that Metz possessed a loaded firearm -- Canik 9-mm pistol -- with the intent to use it unlawfully against a person. In count two, Metz is accused of reckless endangerment in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count two that he engaged in conduct that created substantial risk of serious physical injury to a person by discharging three rounds from the pistol into the bedroom floor of a residence on Batavia Oakfield Townline Road that day. In count three, Metz is accused of the crime of second-degree menacing, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count three that the defendant intentionally placed a person in reasonable fear of physical injury, serious physical injury or death by displaying a dangerous instrument -- a pistol.

Jose A. Rivera is indicted for the crime of second-degree burglary, a Class C violent felony. It is alleged that on July 27, Rivera knowingly and unlawfully entered a building on Swan Street in the City of Batavia with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, Rivera is accused of first-degree criminal contempt, a Class E violent felony, for allegedly violating a duly served order of protection by intentionally harassing, annoying, threatening or alarming the protected party and subjecting her to physical contact.

Markel T. Handley is indicted for the crime of tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on June 15 on Alleghany Road in the Town of Pembroke that the defendant attempted to conceal buprenorphine and naloxone underneath the passenger seat of a Genesee County Sheriff's Office patrol car. In count two, Handley is indicted for criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count two that Handley knowingly and unlawfully possessed controlled substances -- buprenorphine and naloxone.

Jason L. Pullen is indicted for the crime of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 24 in the Town of Byron, that Pullen drove a 2003 Honda on Route 237 while he was under the influence of alcohol or a drug and that at the time he has 10 or more suspensions imposed on at least 10 separate dates in effect: Jan. 20, 2009 / July 24, 2009 / Aug. 7, 2009 / Oct. 8, 2009 / Nov. 12, 2009 / Jan. 9, 2010 / May 23, 2012 / Aug. 25, 2013 / Feb. 17, 2017 / Feb. 3, 2019 / March 14, 2019, / and Dec. 20, 2019. In count two, Pullen is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated -- as a misdemeanor. It is alleged in count two that on May 24 on Route 237 in Byron, that Pullen drove while intoxicated. In count three, he is accused of DWI, per se, as a misdemeanor, for having a BAC of .08 percent at the time.

Mario A. Reyes is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated as a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 13 in the Town of Stafford that he drove a 2011 Chevrolet on Route 33 while he was intoxicated. In count two, Reyes is accused of DWI, per se, as a Class D felony, for having a BAC of .08 percent at the time. In count three, Reyes is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony, for having a driving that day while his privilege to do so was withdrawn or suspended by authorities. In count four, he is accused of operating a vehicle that was not equipped with an ignition interlock device as he is required to do. In count five, he is accused of unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle for driving without a license that day. In count six, Reyes is accused of moving from his lane of travel unsafely that day in Stafford. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Reyes is accused of having been convicted of driving while under the influence of alcohol, as a misdemeanor, on July 7 in Orleans County Court, and on March 2, 2017 in County of Hidalgo Court, State of Texas, and those convictions are within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Andrew T. Pape is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 18 in the Town of Bergen that Pape drove a 2004 Chevrolet on Jerico Road, a public highway, while he was in an intoxicated condition. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Pape is accused of having been convicted of DWI -- as a misdemeanor -- on Jan. 24, 2012 in Town of Ogden Court, Monroe County, and that conviction is within 10 years of the crime alleged in the current indictment.

Jimmy R. Hill is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on July 25 in the Village of Le Roy that Hill drove a 2009 Chevrolet on Lake Street, a public highway, while he was intoxicated. In count two, he is accused of aggravated DWI, per se, as a Class E felony, for having a BAC of .18 percent or more at the time. In Special Information filed by District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, Hills is accused of having been convicted of DWI -- as a misdemeanor -- on June 26, 2014, in City of Syracuse Court, County of Onondaga, and that conviction was within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Jason A. Klinkbeil is indicted for the crime of third-degree grand larceny, a Class D felony, for allegedly stealing property having a value of more than $3,000 on Nov. 13 in the City of Batavia that belonged to Chapin Manufacturing Inc.

Jason A. Klinkbeil is indicted for the crime of falsifying business records in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Nov. 19, while at the Pawn King on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia, that Klinkbeil -- with intent to defraud -- made a false entry in the business records there by signing a document claiming he was the sole owner of the property he sold. In count two, he is indicted for criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly knowingly possessing stolen property while at Pawn King -- tools.

Shane C. Bunce is indicted for the crime of fourth-degree grand larceny, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 8 in the City of Batavia, that Bunce knowingly possessed stolen property that had a value exceeding $1,000 -- a 2007 Honda dirt bike. In count two, he is indicted for criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree, a Class E felony, for allegedly knowingly possessing stolen property that had a value exceeding $1,000 -- a 2007 Honda dirt bike. In count three, Bunce is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree, an unclassified misdemeanor. It is alleged in count three that on that day in the city he drove a motor vehicle while his privilege to do so was suspended by authorities. In count four, Bunce is accused of trespass, a violation, for allegedly knowingly and unlawfully entering property in the Town of Bergen on Sept. 8.

Shed fire reported on Byron Road in Stafford

By Billie Owens

A shed fire about 50 feet behind a residence is reported at 8050 Byron Road, Stafford. Unknown contents of the shed. The location is between the Thruway and School Road. Stafford fire is responding.

UPDATE 3:07 p.m.: A first responder confirms this is a working fire, 60 to 70 feet behind the residence. Responders are told to come in non-emergency mode. There is no water hyrdrant available.

UPDATE 3:14 p.m.: South Byron fire is called to the scene.

UPDATE 3:16 p.m.: Shed fire is out, command reports.

UPDATE 3:17 p.m.: South Byron is put back in service.

UPDATE 3:44 p.m.: Command requests an investigator to the scene.

UPDATE 3:47 p.m.: It is agreed a Sheriff's deputy should respond to the fire scene first "to see what we have" before bringing in an investigator.

Law and Order: Three arrests for impaired driving, one for criminal mischief, one for petit larceny

By Billie Owens

Matthew Michael Maniace, 38, of Fargo Road, Bethany, is charged with: driving while ability impaired by drugs, with a prior conviction within the last 10 years; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree; and moving from lane unsafely. He was arrested Dec. 2 on the charges that stem from an accident that occurred at 11:37 p.m. on Sept. 8 on Prole Road Extension, Stafford. After an investigation and toxicology results, it is alleged that Maniace drove a vehicle while his ability to do so was impaired by drugs, resulting in a motor-vehicle accident. It is also alleged that he possessed drugs at the time and attempted to flee from deputies on foot. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Nicholas Chamoun, assisted by Deputy David Moore.

Michael Jeffrey Vogt, 40, of Albert Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with: driving while intoxicated; DWI with a BAC of .08 percent or more; no front license place; and failure to keep right. Vogt was arrested at 1:52 a.m. Nov. 26 on Main Road in Pembroke. He was issued traffic tickets and is due in Pembroke Town Court on Dec. 17. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Mathew Clor, assisted by Deputy Jordan Alejandro.

Victor H. Montanez, 48, of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged with four violations: driving while intoxicated; driving with a BAC of .08 percent or more; moving from lane unsafely; and speed exceeding 55 mph. He was arrested at 1:48 a.m. on Nov. 28 on Lake Street Road in Le Roy. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Le Roy Police Officer Steven Cappotelli.

Preston Scott Daigler, 22, of South Pearl Street, Oakfield, is charged with third-degree criminal mischief. At 3:49 a.m. on Nov. 26, Daigler was arrested on the charge after allegedly punching out a back window of a vehicle in the driveway on South Pearl Street in Oakfield. He was arraigned virtually in Oakfield Town Court and is due in Genesee County Court on Jan. 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Ryan Young.

Matthew Michael Maniace, 38, of Fargo Road, Bethany, is charged with petit larceny. On Dec. 2 Maniace was arrested. It is alleged that on Nov. 4 at 6 p.m. on Fargo Road in Bethany the defendant agreed to repair parts of the victim's truck. While in possession of the truck, he allegedly took the keys and a tow hitch from the truck and never returned the items to the victim. Maniace was arraigned in Bethany Town Court and issued an appearance ticket to return on Dec. 22. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jacob Gauthier, assisted by Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush.

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