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Law and Order: Batavia man accused of trying to take officer's gun during arrest

By Howard B. Owens

Daniel R. Yates, 55, of Batavia, is charged with attempted robbery, 3rd degree, and attempted criminal possession of a weapon, 2nd degree. Yates allegedly attempted to take a Batavia police officer’s gun out of the holster while police were attempting to take him into custody on May 2. He was arraigned in City Court and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice.

Roman B. Warchol, 45, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Jennifer R. Warchol, 43, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree; operating a motor vehicle without insurance; operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration; and operating a motor vehicle without an inspection certificate. Roman and Jennifer Warchol were arrested May 21 following a traffic stop, during which both were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. They were processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on appearance tickets.

Supreme N. Ervin, 26, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with public lewdness. Ervin was arrested May 20 after allegedly exposing private parts of his body while in a store on Veterans Memorial Drive in the Town of Batavia. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Daquan J. Butler, 29, of Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn, is charged with possession of contraband. Butler is accused of possessing contraband inside the Genesee County Jail on May 16. He was issued an appearance ticket and will appear in Batavia Town Court on May 27.

Bernard L. Parnell, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and obstructing governmental administration, 2nd degree. Parnell allegedly stole merchandise from Speedway and resisted police when they attempted to detain him. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. Earlier the same day, Parnell was arrested on Otis Street after he allegedly refused to leave a residence and allegedly punched another person. He was charged with criminal trespass, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree.

Anthony A. Bomasuto, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and aggravated family offense. Bomasuto is accused of being involved in an altercation with a person who has an order of protection against him on April 10. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Kara B. Baker, 52, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Baker is accused of stealing merchandise from Aldi on April 15. She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Jerome W. Amesbury, 59, of Oakfield, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Amesbury was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on Jan. 10, when he was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Anthony G. Cicoria, 56, of Caledonia, is charged with DWI. Cicoria was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on West Main Street. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Michael A. Fanizza, 31, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Fanizza allegedly entered a residence illegally in violation of an order of protection. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Donyel E. Walker, 26, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, criminal contempt, 1st degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Walker was arrested April 17 after allegedly violating an order of protection inside a residence on Hutchins Street. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Thomas J. Preedom, 36, of Batavia, is charged with failure to register as a sex offender. Preedom is accused of failing to register his address as a level 2 sex offender. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail without bail.

Jacob W. Patterson, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Patterson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during an incident on State Street on April 15, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Christopher E. Tanner, 52, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Tanner allegedly struck another person during an altercation on State Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Kelly R. Seeler, 52, of Albion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Seeler was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Pearl Street on Jan. 17. She was arraigned and released.

Benjamin M. Klotzbach, 34, of Batavia, is charged with unlawful imprisonment, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Klotzbach allegedly headbutted another person and prevented them from leaving a residence during an altercation on Elmwood Avenue. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Johnny D. Vidal, 40, of Batavia, is charged with filing a false written statement. Vidal is accused of signing a written statement alleging that another person threatened him with a firearm. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Nathiel D. Wilson III, 19, of Batavia, and Ashton T. McWethy-Thornley, 18, of Batavia, are charged with criminal mischief, 3rd degree, and conspiracy, 5th degree. Wilson and McWethy-Thornley are accused of damaging a window on a house and a vehicle on State Street. Wilson was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. McWethy-Thornley was arraigned and released.

Karen B. Armstrong, 48, of Batavia, and Ashlee S. Thomas, 28, of Batavia, are charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Armstrong and Thomas were charged following an altercation on Denio Street, where Armstrong allegedly kicked a 13-year-old girl and Thomas allegedly slapped another person who was holding a young child. Thomas was additionally charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Both were issued appearance tickets and released.

Andrew R. Del Gandio, 31, of Rochester, is charged with DWI. Del Gandio was arrested April 27 following a traffic stop on East Main Street. He was issued several traffic tickets and released.

James R. Briggs, 49, of Corning, was arrested April 30 on four warrants, including two bench warrants and two arrest warrants. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Nankumar McLaulin, 32, of Hicksville, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. McLaulin allegedly failed to appear in court after being issued a misdemeanor traffic ticket in December 2023. He turned himself in, was arraigned in City Court, and released.

John W. Biaselli, 56, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. Biaselli was initially charged with petit larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise from Dollar General on Feb. 28. The warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Shelby L. Fryer, 29, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a bench warrant. Fryer was initially charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, following a traffic stop on Dec. 17, 2024. Fryer was arraigned in City Court and released.

Nicole Granger, 34, of Batavia, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, grand larceny, 3rd degree, and three counts of forgery, 1st degree. Granger is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was residing in the home and earning wages, and of forging three documents related to her rental payments. As a result, she allegedly received $6,426 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Granger was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Nicole Sprung, 39, of Le Roy, is charged with forgery, 1st degree, welfare fraud, 4th degree, and grand larceny, 4th degree. Sprung is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was living in the home and earning wages, and of forging a neighbor’s signature attesting that he was not in the home. She allegedly received $2,641 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Sprung was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Cheryl Ditzel, 61, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. Ditzel is accused of failing to report monies being deposited into a bank account she had access to, resulting in her allegedly receiving $2,435 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Jacqueline Sogunro-Pitan, 44, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. She is accused of failing to report wages she was earning at Walmart and, as a result, receiving $2,304 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Erica E. Cullen, 34, of Bank Street Road, Elba, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, 1st degree; welfare fraud, 3rd degree; and grand larceny, 3rd degree. Cullen is accused of receiving $3,138 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arrested following an investigation by the Department of Social Services and arraigned in Batavia Town Court on May 22, where she was released on her own recognizance.

Brandon Gerald Starkweather, 33, no permanent address, is charged with criminal contempt, 1st degree. Starkweather is accused of striking another person who had an active stay-away order of protection against him. He was held for arraignment following his arrest on May 22.

Davon H. Patton, 39, of Buffalo, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property, 4th degree. Patton was allegedly found operating a stolen vehicle on Oak Street on May 7. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Brian M. Raphael, 37, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd degree. Raphael was allegedly found in possession of a bludgeon, specifically a club with barbed wire wrapped around it, on May 7. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Joseph M. Tornabene, 33, of Buffalo, is charged with aggravated family offense and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Tornabene allegedly violated an order of protection by being at the residence of a protected party on April 30. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Marissa A. McGill, 39, of Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and circumventing an interlock device. McGill allegedly had a child blow into her vehicle’s interlock device and left her children unattended for an extended period of time on May 9. She was issued appearance tickets and released.

Michael J. Cutitta, 40, of Batavia, is charged with menacing, 3rd degree. Cutitta allegedly threatened to kill another person on May 10. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.

Colleen M. Hutchinson, 50, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, and criminal use of drug paraphernalia, 2nd degree. Hutchinson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop on Ellicott Avenue on Feb. 19. She was issued appearance tickets and released.

Justin T. Gladney, 36, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Gladney was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on West Main Street on Aug. 1, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket at the Genesee County Jail, where he is currently incarcerated on a separate matter.

Kaila I. Tidd, 40, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and endangering the welfare of a child. Tidd allegedly allowed a sex offender to be at her residence around her children, in violation of an order of protection, on May 1. She was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance.

Edward J. Ludwig, 62, of Alden, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Ludwig was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Jan. 17. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.

Ricky A. Marsceill, 60, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Marsceill was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on May 20, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Bill A. Thomas, 65, of Batavia, was arrested on three bench warrants, all stemming from previous trespass charges where he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Michelle L. May, 50, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. May allegedly had physical contact with another person during an altercation on East Main Street on May 3. She was arraigned in CAP Court.

Law and Order: Le Roy man charged with assault following fight at 7-Eleven in Bergen

By Howard B. Owens

David Jeffery Pinkerton, 32, of Main Street, Le Roy, is charged with assault 2nd and criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use. Pinkerton is accused of fighting with two people at around 1:58 a.m. on May 18 in the parking lot of the 7-Eleven in Bergen. He allegedly caused physical injury to one person who was transported to UMMC with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. He was held pending arraignment.

Kelly J. Mungo, 49, of East Main St., Batavia, is charged with tampering with physical evidence and criminal possession of controlled substance 7th. Mungo was arrested due to an investigation during a traffic stop on South Lake Road, Bergen, at 4:39 p.m. on May 5 by Deputy Jonathan Dimmig. She is accused of attempting to conceal cocaine and a crack pipe on her person. Mungo was held pending arraignment. Also charged,  Colleen M. Hutchinspon, 50, of Spring Street, Bergen, who was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell. Hutchinson was allegedly found in possession of cocaine. She was held pending arraignment. Also charged, Timothy L. Corcoran, 61, of Maple Street, Batavia, who was charged with conspiracy 4th and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Corcoran is accused of possessing cocaine and contributing to the commission of two Class B felonies. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Kurtis Rashod Washington, 34, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Washington is accused of possessing 23 grams of cocaine, enough to constitute intent to sell, during a probation home visit at 10:51 a.m. on May 5 on West Main Street Road, Batavia. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held without bail.

David R. Cook, no age or address provided, is charged with grand larceny 2nd and fostering the sale of stolen goods. Cook was arrested on April 25 following an investigation by Erik Andre and Deputy Nicholas Charmoun into thefts from Upstate Farms Culture Products at 5011 West Ag Park Drive, Batavia. Cook is accused of stealing property that belonged to Upstate over a six-month period and selling the property for financial gain. Cook allegedly stole more than $100,000 in goods. He was arraigned and released.

Heather McGinnis, 35, of Dublin Road, Bergen, is charged with assault 3rd. McGinnis was arrested following a report at 1:15 a.m. on April 17 of a disturbance at an address on Dublin Road. She is accused of biting another person. She was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Terrance D. Barner, 36, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with obstructing governmental administration 2nd. Barner is accused of failing to leave the Quality Inn and Suites after being ordered to leave by deputies at 9:07 p.m. on April 21. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Casandra L. Matson, 38, of Railroad Avenue, Silver Springs, and Del John Akin, 47, of North Main Street, Silver Springs, are charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. Matson and Akin are accused of skip-scanning merchandise at Walmart at 4:04 p.m. on April 23. The defendants were transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Yulia Pityk, 24, of Silver Birch, Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Yulia was stopped at 1:52 a.m. on April 25 on Route 33 in Bergen by Deputy Ryan Mullen. Pityk was released on tickets.

Cody James Nichols, 40, of Avenue A, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Nichols was allegedly found in possession of cocaine at 4:22 p.m. on May 1 at a location on Apple Tree Avenue, Bergen, by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Stephen Douglas Freeman, 54, of Conlon Road, Le Roy, is charged with felony DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation, driving with registration suspended, drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle, and driving without insurance. Freeman was stopped at 8:29 p.m. on May 2 on West Main Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Freeman was held for arraignment.

Jennifer Lynn Maher, 42, of Prole Road, Stafford, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and no plate lamp. Maher was stopped at 1:24 a.m. on May 4 by Deputy Zachary Hoy on Clinton Street Road, Stafford. Maher was issued tickets and released.

Jason Joseph Meyer, 48, of West Avenue, Elba, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and following too closely. Meyer was stopped at 10:05 p.m. on April 18 on Veterans Memorial Drive by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. Meyer was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Dylan Michael DIbble, 29, of Pole Bridge Road, Avon, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, speeding, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and driving left of pavement markings. Dibble was stopped at 2:08 a.m. on May 10 on Broadway Road, Bethany, by Sgt. Mathew Clor.

Thomas Howard Forbes, 58, no address provided, is charged with DWI and failure to stop at a stop sign. Forbes was stopped at 12:57 a.m. on May 18 on Park Road by Deputy Leah Bezon. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

 

Prosecution asks judge in murder case to allow testimony about defendant's prior crimes

By Howard B. Owens
edward dunn
Edward Dunn

The jury in the upcoming murder trial will want to know why Michael Poole, an Olcott resident, was shot in the head and his body was abandoned in the trunk of a car and left in the town of Alabama, District Attorney Kevin Finnell told Judge Melissa Lightcap Cianfrini in Gensee County Court on Monday morning.  

Casey F. Spencer, the defense attorney for Edward Dunn, the man accused of killing Poole, argued that many of the specific details Finnell wants to bring up at trial -- jury selection set to begin on June 6 -- are too prejudicial without much value to proving the guilt or innocence of her client.

Dunn, a former Lockport resident, is accused of killing Poole on March 17, 2024.

One of the prosecution witnesses is Kathryn Henry, Dunn's former girlfriend and a good friend of Poole. Finnell said he would need to explain to the jury why Henry did not immediately come forward and report the crime. Henry was initially charged with murder in the second degree in connection with Poole’s death. 

However, on August 22, Henry entered guilty pleas to two lesser charges: hindering prosecution (a Class D felony) and concealment of a human corpse (a Class E felony). She is no longer facing a murder charge. Henry is scheduled for sentencing in County Court on August 18.

The case that Finnell would like to present to the jury would include information about Dunn's prior criminal record and Dunn's alleged burglaries and attempted burglaries, as well as information that indicates Dunn has violent tendencies and that Henry feared for her safety.

That fear, Finnell argued, is why Henry did not come forward immediately after the alleged crime.

On March 27, 2024, Dunn, Poole, and Henry allegedly drove Barker intending to commit a burglary at a laundromat, but the "conditions," Finnell said, were not conducive to a burglary. Finnell indicated that Henry would testify that Poole warned Dunn to be more careful because people were becoming suspicious that he was involved in a series of burglaries. 

Finnell's theory of the case is that Dunn was motivated to allegedly kill Poole because he suspected Poole of telling people about the burglaries. 

He said Henry would also testify that in the short time they were a couple, Dunn said he had committed other violent crimes outside of New York State and she knew that he was facing a felony assault charge in Niagara County from December 2021.

According to Finnell, Henry would say, if permitted by Cianfrini, that Dunn owned a rifle that he always carried with him, and that weapon was the same rifle used to kill Poole. 

When Dunn was arrested by a parole officer, according to Finnell, he was found hiding in a crawl space of the residence he shared with another witness, Norman S. DuBois, and the rifle in question was also in that crawl space.

All of that is highly prejudicial, Spencer argued, to her client. 

Criminal evidence rules generally prohibit the introduction of criminal records and uncharged crimes in trials because the information is likely irrelevant to the case before the jury and could paint the defendant in a negative light. The jury is supposed to consider only the evidence relevant to the case before them.

Monday's hearing was based on case law, which provides standards for a judge to consider regarding the admissibility of prior offenses.

Spencer argued that there are other potential motivations for the crime available in the investigative record and the details of the alleged prior crimes are not necessarily needed to say that Henry feared Dunn.

Finnell argued that without the evidence he wishes to present, the jury would be left with a "blackhole" for the jury to understand the true nature of Henry's fear, and since only Dunn and Henry were reportedly in the car when Poole was murdered, they jury could easily wonder why Henry wasn't the actual killer.

Spencer also argued against revealing that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.

Finnell said all these pieces of potential evidence are "woven into the fabric" of the case and can't be separated.  Henry's knowledge of the prior assault case goes to her state of mind when considering her options after the alleged murder, and the parole arrest and potential evidence uncovered in the search are critical to the case.

Cianfrini raised the issue with Spencer that the arrest parole officer would like to testify at trial, which would indicate that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.

Spencer acknowledged that jurors could draw that conclusion based on the appearance of that specific witness, but it is unnecessary to tell jurors specifically that Dunn was on parole.

The 39-year-old Dunn is currently serving a 2 1/2 to 5-year prison sentence, assigned to Clinton Correctional Facility, for a prior and unrelated burglary in the third degree conviction in Orleans County.

Cianfrini will rule on today's motions prior to trial.

He is currently being held in Attica so that he is available to appear in Genesee County Court and to meet with his attorney as the case moves toward trial.

Batavia man accused of wielding a knife in Williams Park in 2023 turns down plea offer

By Howard B. Owens
nathan royse
Nathan Royse

A 33-year-old Batavia man who was on the Batavia PD wanted list for more than a year before being captured by U.S. Marshals in December appeared in Genesee County Court on Friday morning and turned down a plea offer.

The details of the plea offer were not discussed in court.

Nathan L. Royse was arrested in December and charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, stemming from an incident on April 15, 2023, in Williams Park, where he allegedly attempted to stab another person during a fight during a basketball game.

On June 2, 2023, Batavia City Court issued a warrant for his arrest on a criminal possession of a weapon charge. No information is available on the status of that charge. The police issued a "wanted" press release for the first time in September 2023.

His attorney, Fred Rarick, informed Judge Melissa Lightcap Cianfrini that Royce turned down the plea offer because there was no guarantee that his time for the charge could be served concurrently with any other charge.

At the time of the search, Royse was also on parole for burglary in the second degree and had an active parole warrant.

NOTE: This story has been modified to correct the timeline of events and location of the incident.

 

Albion resident arrested in Batavia Marine burglary pleads guilty

By Howard B. Owens
nathaniel thompson
Nathaniel Thompson

A 23-year-old Albion resident admitted in Genesee County Court on Friday morning to taking part in a burglary on May 27 of Batavia Marine on West Main Street in Batavia.

Nathaniel Thompson agreed to a plea agreement that capped his anticipated sentence at 2-4 years in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 3. If he fails to abide by court orders between now and then, he loses his sentence cap and could face 3 1/2 to seven years in prison.

He pleaded guilty to burglary in the third degree with the intent to commit grand larceny and as a second-time felony offender. In November 2022, he entered a guilty plea in Orleans County to criminal possession of stolen property.

Thompson was arrested in August and initially charged with burglary, criminal mischief, criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, grand larceny in the third degree and grand larceny in the fourth degree.

In court on Friday, Thompson admitted to stealing firearms valued at more than $1,000.

Malachi J Nix, 20, of Tonawanda, was also in the case. He was arrested in February and charged with burglary in the second degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, grand larceny in the third degree, criminal mischief in the third degree, and conspiracy in the fourth degree.

The status of his case is not available.

Thompson is currently in custody in Orleans County. 

Law and Order: Three people in traffic stop on Thruway charged with drug crimes

By Howard B. Owens

Adrienne S. Bechtold, 29, of Vine Street, Batavia, Jacob W. Patterson, 29, of Vine Street, Batavia, and Rebecca I. Patterson, 58, of Batavia, are charged with multiple crimes. (Note, the charges are not specified by person in the press release and it's unclear which charges apply to all and which might apply to only a single individual).  The charges are, six counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, three counts of promoting prison contraband 1st, two counts of tampering with physical evidence, three counts of conspiracy 4th, two counts of criminally using drug paraphernalia, one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, moving from lane unsafely, and insufficient turn signal. On April 15, deputies conducted a traffic stop on the Thruway near mile marker 390.9 after observing alleged traffic violations. Deputies reportedly became suspicious of criminal activity after observing "several criminal indicators," so they requested the assistance of Batavia PD K9 Batu. As a result of the search, narcotics were allegedly located in the vehicle. After the search, one of the suspects produced more narcotics that the person had concealed on his or her person. The three people were transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing. At the jail, more narcotics were allegedly found on Bechtold and Jacob Patterson. They are accused of possessing two ounces of cocaine as well as fentanyl. Rebecca Patterson was released on an appearance ticket. Bechtold and Jacob Patterson were held pending arraignment. The investigation was conducted by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun, Deputy Alexander Hadsall, Deputy Jeremy McClellan, and Officer Stephen Quider, Batavia PD, handler of K-9 Batu.

Carrie Ann Stewart, 44, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with burglary 3rd and petit larceny. Stewart is accused of entering and remaining in Walmart with the intent to commit a crime at 8:31 p.m. on April 14.

Michael Anthony Fanizza, 31, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass 2nd. Fanizza is accused of entering another person's residence in Oakfield and remaining there without permission at 1:20 pm. on April 18. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Michaela Ruth Bohn, 25, of Clinton Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Bohn was stopped at 11:44 p.m. on April 19 on Clinton Street Road, Bergen by Deputy Jonathan Dimming. He was issued traffic tickets and released. 

 

Police investigating incident near McDonalds on Sunday, seek witnesses

By Howard B. Owens

Batavia police officers or seeking the public's assistance with an investigation into an incident in the parking lot of the East Main McDonald's on Easter Sunday that led to one man being stabbed.

When police arrived on scene, one male was located at that location.

The other male, who sustained a knife wound, was not at the scene when police officers responded to the report of a disturbance. He was latter located at a residence in the city. His injuries was not life-threatening.  CIty Fire and Mercy EMS responded to the residence and the person was transported to a hospital in Rochester for further treatment. 

All subjects believed to be involved in the incident have been identified and police say there is no ongoing risk to public safety.

Investigators are encouraging possible witnesses to come forward.

Tips can be provided by calling 585-345-6350, the confidential tip line at 585-345-6370 or by clicking here.

Law and Order: Two men from Syracuse accused of grand larceny at Dick's Sporting Goods

By Howard B. Owens

Tabu Thihele Gaines, Jr., 24, of Armstrong Place, Syracuse, and Sosa Stroman, 24, of Herkimer Street, Syracuse, are charged with grand larceny 4th, possession of burglar tools, and conspiracy 5th. Gaines and Stroman are accused of stealing from Dick's Sporting Goods at 5:36 p.m. on April 11. They were held pending arraignment.

Tyler J. Bull, 22, and Raymond L. Keffer, Jr., 48, are both charged with assault 2nd for allegedly causing physical injuries to each other during a fight at the Genesee County Jail on an unspecified date. They were arraigned and ordered held without bail.

Jason W. Alexander, 48, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd, endangering the welfare of a child, burglary 2nd, and criminal contempt 2nd. Alexander is accused of pushing and slapping a child on April 6 during an incident on East Main Street, Batavia. He was arraigned. An order of protection was issued. He was released. On April 7, Alexander is accused of entering a residence in violation of the order of protection. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Michael A. Shetler, 34, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and aggravated family offense. Shelter is accused of violating an order of protection on March 5. He was arrested on March 3. He was arraigned in City Court and ordered jailed.

Lisa M. Fox, 53, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, criminal possession of controlled substance 7th, and tampering with physical evidence. On March 28, Fox was allegedly found in possession of narcotics while being arrested on an unrelated matter. She was arraigned and released.

Nathaniel R. Davis, 29, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd and criminal contempt 2nd. Davis was allegedly found inside of a residence on March 29 in violation of an order of protection while being arrested on a warrant. He was arraigned and released. 

Kyler A. Boskat, 22, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd, conspiracy 4th, and criminal facilitation 4th. Boskat is accused of being an accomplice in a burglary on Hutchines Street on Jan. 12. Boskat was arrested on March 28, processed at the Genesee County Jail, arraigned, and released.

Benjamin A. Rachow, 42, of Batavia, is charged with assault 3rd, criminal obstruction of breathing, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, and harassment 2nd. Rachow is accused of fighting on March 30 on Ellicott Street, allegedly punching one person and grabbing a second by the neck. He was arraigned and released.

David W. Rich, 74, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Rich is accused of damaging a vehicle on March 28 following an argument on West Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jessica L. Culver, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Culver is accused of shoplifting from Family Dollar in Batavia on March 29. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Curtis McCall, 38, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. McCall is accused of slamming another person's hand in a door during an incident on State Street on March 28. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Lucas S Potrzebowski, 30, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Potrzebowski is accused of not returning property to a customer at UPS Store in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Raymond J. Dick, 60, of Batavia, is charged with DWAI/drugs. He was arrested on April 10 following an investigation into an allegation that he was driving while under the influence of drugs on Feb. 25. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Derrick L. Washington, 52, of Batavia, was arrested on April 8 on a warrant for petit larceny. He is accused of stealing merchandise from Dollar General on Dec. 27. He was arraigned and released.

Richard J. Burdick, 47, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. He was arrested on March 31. Burdick was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on Jan. 10 during a traffic stop on Ross Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Ali Arbai, 33, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Arbai was charged following a traffic stop on Main Street in April 6. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Michael A. Fanizza, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and criminal mischief 4th. He is accused of damaging a door during an argument on April 6 in violation of an order of protection. He was arraigned and released.

Alisia L. Compton, 40, of Orlando, Fla., was arrested on April 2 on a warrant. Compton was charged with DWI on Nov. 22, 2022 and allegedly failed to meet the conditions of her conditional discharge. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

Winston A. Lockhart, 30, of Batavia, is charged with DWAI/Alcohol. Lockhart was charged following a motor vehicle accident on March 31 on March 31 on North Spruce Street, Batavia. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Sara A. Elliott, 39, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Ellicott was arrested on April 4 following an investigation into a traffic stop on Dec. 19. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Kevin A. Cole, 46, of Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Cole was arrested on April 4, accused of failing to properly supervise a child who had run away from home numerous times. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Law and Order: Three Batavia residents face drug charges after traffic stop

By Howard B. Owens

Timothy L. Corcoran, 61, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and operating an uninspected motor vehicle; Adrienne S. Bechtold, 29, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and criminal possession of stolen property 5th; and, Nicholas E. Patterson, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. On April 13 at 9:03 p.m., deputies stopped a vehicle in Le Roy on the suspicion of traffic violations. A quantity of cocaine was allegedly located in the vehicle.  The three suspects were processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Steven Phillip Nasewtewa, 37, of Skye Road, Tonawanda Indian Reservation, is charged with reckless endangerment 2nd, endangering the welfare of a child, unlawful imprisonment 2nd, and harassment 2nd.  At noon on April 7, deputies responded to a report of a fight on Bloomingdale Road on the Tonawanda Indian Reservation. Nasewtewa is accused of hitting another person in the face and dragging the person for a short distance when the person tried to exit a vehicle. There were allegedly children present during the incident. He was arraigned and released.

Cameron Jacob Sokowlski, 32, of Harshorn Road, Batavia, is charged with unlawful fleeing a police officer, aggravated unlicensed operation, reckless driving, driving without an ignition interlock, and disobeying traffic control devices.  Sokowlski is accused of failing to stop for a traffic stop and attempting to flee on the Thruway at 4:26 p.m. on April 11 on Route 77 in Pembroke. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Jessica Leigh Culver, 35, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Culver is accused of shoplifting from Walmart at 6:21 p.m. on April 4. She was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

David W. Fruster, 62, of Portland Avenue, Rochester, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd, aggravated unlicensed operation, unlicensed operation, and speeding. Fruster was stopped at 6:14 p.m. on April 7 on Clinton Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Ayrton Blankenberg. There was allegedly a court order in place prohibiting contact with the passenger in his vehicle. He was arraigned and released.

Russell Carl Dibble, 38, of Gabbey Road, Corfu, is charged with driving while impaired/alcohol. Dibble was stopped at 4:22 p.m. on April 4 on West Main Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Mary T. Strusz, 59, of Main Road, Stafford, is charged with criminal trespass 2nd. At 3:22 p.m. on April 14, deputies responded to a 9-1-1 hang-up call at a location on Main Road, Stafford. After an investigation, Strusz was accused of entering a residence in an apartment complex without permission. Strusz was arraigned and released.

 

Previously deported Ecuadorian arrested in Elba following investigation that began in Buffalo

By Howard B. Owens

A citizen of Ecuador accused of re-entering the country after being deported was arrested in Elba on March 26 during a traffic stop following an investigation that began in Buffalo.

Luis Castro Mayancela, 24, is charged by criminal complaint with re-entry after prior removal, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. 

On the day of the arrest, agents of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement were conducting surveillance of a residence on Mill Street when a blue Chevrolet Silvarado pulled up to the house.

According to a criminal complaint filed by the arresting agent in federal court, the target of the surveillance was a person accused of entering the country illegally. 

Two Hispanic males left the house and got into the vehicle.

Enforcement and Removal team members began a mobile surveillance. 

Border Patrol agents conducted a vehicle stop on Ford Road, Elba, at 11:20 a.m. on March 26.

The complaint states that four people were in the vehicle, including Mayancela.

An immigration judge ordered Mayancela to leave the country on Dec. 13, 2019. He was placed on a flight to Ecuador, departing Alexandria International Airport in Louisiana, on Dec. 30, 2019.

The arresting agent stated that there was no evidence that Mayancela had been granted permission to be in the U.S. prior to his arrest.

He was processed at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia. A fingerprint scan indicated that his fingerprints matched those previously obtained for Mayancela. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer ordered that Mayancela be detained pending further court proceedings.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sasha Mascarenhas and Andrew J. Henning are prosecuting the case.

Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement Removal Operations, under the direction of Acting Field Office Director Steven Kurzdorfer, supervised the investigation.

Officer in Le Roy credited with working cold case, making arrest in Crocker Ace Hardware burglary

By Howard B. Owens

A 45-year-old Le Roy resident has been charged in a 2023 burglary of Crocker's Ace Hardward.

Officer Matthew Nielson worked the cold case and identified the suspect, who allegedly stole thousands of dollars in merchandise in the overnight heist.

Nielson had few leads to work with, according to Chief Greg Kellogg.

"Through persistent follow-up, detailed investigative work, and strong attention to detail, he successfully identified the suspect and personally made the arrest," Kellogg said. "This arrest is the result of Nielson’s dedication and resolve, demonstrating the commitment of the LeRoy Police Department to holding offenders accountable — no matter how much time has passed. His work on this case reflects the professionalism and determination that the department strives to deliver every day."

Andrew J. Paladino was taken into custody. He is charged with burglary. No other charges were listed in the release. His release status is unknown

Arrest made in Vine Street fire that claimed life of 10-year-old

By Howard B. Owens

Henry Banks, 55, of Batavia, has been charged with criminally negligent homicide and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child in the death of 10-year-old Javarius Williams in a fire at 3 Vine St., Batavia, on Feb. 6.

Banks was arraigned in County Court on a sealed grand jury indictment. Judge Melissa Lightcap Cianfrini ordered Banks held in the Genesee County Jail pending further court proceedings.

On the night of Feb. 6, City Fire responded to 3 Vine after a neighbor spotted a fire in the upstairs apartment. The neighbor said he attempted to gain entry to the apartment to help the three children inside escape but was unable to get past the locked door.

All three children were rescued, but Javarius succumbed to the injuries he sustained.

The children, ages 4, 10, and 12, had apparently been left alone in the middle of the night.

According to Chief Shawn Heubusch, Banks is the biological father of the 12-year-old and was legal guardian of the other two children, including Javarius. 

He is accused of leaving the children unsupervised for an extended period of time.

The fire started in a child's bedroom. City Fire has yet to determine a cause, Heubusch said.

All three were transported to area hospitals after being rescued by the Police and Fire Departments. 

The fire was investigated by Batavia PD along with partner agencies.

The cause and origin of the fire have not been released.

Law and Order: Buffalo woman accused of attempting to pass forged check at bank in Batavia

By Howard B. Owens
Imani Hurd
Imani Hurd

Imani I. Hurd, 23, of Buffalo, is charged with attempted grand larceny 3rd and possession of a forged instrument 2nd. Hurd is accused of attempting to cash a forged check at the M&T Bank branch in Batavia. She was arraigned and released.

Dominic O Mogavero, 20, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd, conspiracy 4th, and criminal facilitation 4th. Mogavero is accused of being an accessory to a burglary on Hutchins Street on Jan. 12. He was arrested on March 24. He was arraigned and released.

Leroy Thornton, III, 34, of Batavia, is charged with sex offender failure to report change of address. Thornton, a Level 3 sex offender, was arrested March 27. He allegedly failed to report a change of address within the required 10 days. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Dominic Mogavero
Dominic Mogavero

Jonathan C. Perrine, 42, of Batavia, was arrested on March 22 on a warrant charging him with criminal mischief 3rd. He is accused of damaging windows on a vehicle on March 28. He was arraigned and released.

Katelyn L. Walsh, 30, of Batavia, is charged with felony DWI. Walsh was arrested on March 22 following a traffic stop by a Batavia patrol officer on Chase Park. Walsh was issued traffic tickets and released.

Rhiannon J. Graff, 44, of Batavia, is charged with DWI and petit larceny. Graff was accused of drinking and driving on March 21 after police responded to a suspicious vehicle on East Main Street.  Graff is also accused of shoplifting at Quicklee's On Oak Street on March 18. She was issued appearance tickets. 

Hillary D. Russell, 32, of Batavia, was charged with petit larceny. Russell is accused of stealing merchandise from Dollar General on March 19. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Brandon C. Dodd, 38, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Dodd is accused of stealing merchandise from Family Dollar on March 18. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Christine J. Saab, 20, of Batavia, was arrested on March 10 on a warrant. She was initially arrested and charged with harassment 2nd, following a fight at the Mobil gas station on East Main Street. She allegedly failed to appear in court on the charge as ordered. Saab was arraigned in City Court and released. 

Michael J. Hilton, 34, of Le Roy, was arrested on March 22 on a warrant charging him with petit larceny. Hilton is accused of stealing merchandise from 7-Eleven on Feb. 26. He was arraigned and released.

Law and Order: Batavia woman accused of possessing dealing-level of narcotics

By Howard B. Owens
Lisa M. Fox
Lisa M. Fox

Lisa M. Fox, 53, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. Fox was arrested by a Batavia patrol officer on March 14 following a traffic stop on Clinton Street. She was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. She was arraigned and jailed.

Nicholas H. Heide, 28, of Port Jefferson, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd. He was arrested March 15, accused of slashing a vehicle tire in the parking lot of Copperhead Creek. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Michael A. Fanizza, 31, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. He was arrested on March 14 and accused of slamming another person to the ground during a fight on Jefferson Avenue. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Bruce Warren, 62, of Batavia, is charged with sex offender failure to verify. He was arrested on March 17 and is accused of failing to verify his information, as required every 90 days as a registered sex offender. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Donyel E. Walker, 26, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd and criminal contempt 2nd. Walker was arrested on March 14, accused of entering a residence in violation of a stay-way order of protection. He was arraigned and released.

Shane Anthony Porter, 54, of Roosevelt Highway, Hamlin, is charged with menacing 2nd. Porter was arrested following a report of an incident on Lake Street Road, Le Roy, at 7:44 p.m., March 22. A narrative of the events was not released. Porter was held or arraignment.

Tyler James Bull, 22, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Bull was arrested on March 25 at the Genesee County Jail in connection with an incident reported at 6:39 p.m. on Feb. 23. Bull allegedly violated an order of protection by making a phone call to the protected party. He was transported to the Town of Batavia Court and arraigned.

Megan June Courtney, 29, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Courtney was arrested on March 28. He is accused of violating a stay-away order of protection at 9:54 a.m. on March 26 at a location on West Main Street Road, Batavia. 

Garrett Michael Pyc, 33, of South Lake Road, Pembroke, is charged with issuing a bad check. Pyc was arrested on March 28. Pyc is accused of issuing a bad check at 6:51 p.m. on Jan. 8 at a location on South Lake Road, Pembroke.

Dylan Jay Carli, 18, of Route 20, Pavilion, is charged with criminal mischief 4th and harassment 2nd. Carli was arrested on March 28 after deputies responded to a location on Linwood Road, Pavilion, to investigate a harassment complaint. He is accused of damaging property and harassing another person. He was held pending arraignment.

Daniel Francis Bower, 70, of Antlers Drive, Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving while using a mobile phone, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, and moving from lane unsafely. At 4:13 p.m. on March 30, Bower was allegedly involved in an accident on North Byron Road, Elba. The accident was investigated by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Bower was issued an appearance ticket.

Lee Carl Zimmerman, 54, of South Lake Avenue, Bergen, is charged with DWI, moving lane unsafely, and inadequate plate lamps. Zimmerman was stopped at 10:02 p.m. on March 31 on South Lake Avenue, Bergen, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was held pending arraignment.

Tanisha A. Nealy, 36, of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant on March 16. Nealy was initially arrested on July 31 and charged with menacing 2nd and criminal possession of a weapon 3rd. She allegedly threatened another person with a knife. She was arraigned and released.

Christian Pierre-Louis, 27, of Batavia, was charged with DWI. Pierre-Louis was stopped on March 15 by a Batavia patrol officer on South Main Street. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Kyle W. Nash, 37, of Le Roy, was arrested on March 18 on a warrant. Nash allegedly failed to appear in court on traffic tickets issued on Jan. 10. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Bill A. Thomas, 65, of Batavia, was arrested on March 14 on two warrants. He was previously charged with trespass and criminal trespass 3rd in separate cases. He allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Law and Order: Driver accused of fleeing police charged with DWI

By Howard B. Owens

Dean K. Houk, 55, of Batavia, is charged with DWI and multiple traffic violations. On March 7, a police officer reportedly observed Houk drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle. Houk allegedly led police on a pursuit through the city until stopped at West Main Street and Oak Street. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Jamie Stephen Vosburgh, 36, of Jackson Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and insufficient tail lamps. Vosburgh was stopped at 10:26 p.m. on March 16 on Cole Road, Le Roy, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Brandon Charles Dodd, 38, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Dodd is accused of shoplifting from Target on Veterans Memorial Drive, Bataiva, at 11:56 a.m. on March 6. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Jennifer C. Moscicki, 48, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Moscicki is accused of stealing merchandise from Aldi on March 11. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Mercedes Ramon-Rodriguez, 31, of Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child. She is accused of leaving a 3-year-old at home alone. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Kelly J. Mungo, 49, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Mungo is accused of stealing merchandise from Aldi on March 6. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Mary A Ingles, 70, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Ingles was stopped by a Batavia patrol officer on March 5 on Richmond Avenue. She was issued traffic tickets and released.

Bill A. Thomas, 65, is charged with trespass. Thomas was found inside the City Centre Mall on March 7 in violation of a previous order to keep of the premises. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jazmyn R. Bater, 20, of Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Bater is accused of striking another person in the head several times on March 7 while the other person was holding a child. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Jennifer N. Wilson, 38, of Auburndale, Fla., was arrested on March 9 on a warrant. She allegedly failed to appear on charges from Feb. 26, 2024, of criminal trespass 2nd, obstructing governmental administration, and resisting arrest. She was arraigned and released.

Batavia patrol officers kept busy in 2024, handling 22,116 calls for service

By Howard B. Owens
Police Memorial Day Batavia PD 2024
Photo by Howard Owens/The Batavian reprinted in the report from the department's Police Memorial Ceremony.

In 2024, Batavia PD handled big crimes, petit crimes, and no crimes and participated in multiple community events, according to the department's annual report.

In all, the department made 635 arrests, which included a murder, nine robberies, 23 felony assaults, 56 thefts, four kidnappings, 66 drug possessions, 44 DWIs, and four sex offenses.

The department did not release a report in 2024, so 2023's arrest data is unavailable.

The 2025 report does provide comparison data for total calls for service. There were 22,116 calls for service last year and 21,617 in 2022.  During the COVID years, calls for service dropped. There were 21,264 calls for service in 2019.

Those calls included 1,120 domestic incidents, which is a slight increase from the previous year, as well as 802 disturbance calls. The police investigated 920 larcenies, which was down from 2023 and 2022, when larceny reports peaked over 1,000. Mental health calls were down from nearly a thousand in 2023 to 715 in 2024.

The number of domestic violence victims has steadily decreased since 2020, when there were 248 victims reported. There were 146 in 2024.

Officers responded to 371 alarm calls, 410 9-1-1 hang-up calls, and 508 animal complaints and conducted 641 welfare checks.

Patrols conducted 3,207 traffic stops and wrote 1,790 citations. 

There were 493 motor vehicle crashes reported.

The department was involved in multiple community events, including Batavia Community Night, Shop with a Cop, Trunk-or-Treat, and Juneteenth, as well as department members participating in charity softball and hockey games.

The most significant case of the year was the death of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello of the Sheriff's Office. He died while trying to deal with unruly patrons at Batavia Downs. Batavia's officers and detectives handled the investigation.  Michael Elmore was eventually convicted of manslaughter in the case.

"The men and women of the City of Batavia Police Department go above and beyond each and every day to ensure the safest possible neighborhoods and streets," said Chief Shawn Heubusch in his opening message. "Our civilian staff makes sure that the department operates as efficiently as possible and are to be recognized for their hard work as well. I thank all the members of the Department for their service and sacrifice as we enter into a new year."

Batavia man working with children in Brockport sentenced to 20 years in prison for child pornography

By Howard B. Owens
derek hagan
Derek Hagen

A 33-year-old Batavia man will serve up to 20 years in federal prison on a conviction of production and possession of child pornography, a U.S district judge ruled on Thursday.

Derek Hagen admitted to the child pornography charges on Sept. 7, 2022. He was arrested in November 2021.

Hagen's most recently known employment at the Brockport Childhood Development Center as an assistant teacher in the infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms.

According to Kyle P. Rossi, assistant U.S. attorney, the evidence compiled against Hagen showed that the former teacher engaged in a pattern of sexual conduct with a victim between the ages of 4 and 8. Hagen photographed and videoed himself, subjecting the victim to sexual contact. Hagen then distributed the images to other people over the internet.

Rossi also said that Hagan, while employed in Brockport, produced and possessed sexually explicit images of children entrusted to his care. The children ranged in age from six months to five years. Hagen produced these images while changing diapers and assisting children who were learning to use the bathroom. Hagen distributed the images of these children to other individuals over the internet. 

Hagen also possessed approximately 50,000 images and videos of child pornography that he received from others via the internet.

The case was investigated by the State Police, Homeland Security, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.     

Law and Order: Woman charged with assault allegedly found in possession of narcotics

By Howard B. Owens
Lisa Fox
Lisa Fox

Lisa M. Fox, 53, of Batavia, is charged with assault 3rd, criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. Fox allegedly caused an injury during a fight with another person on Feb. 6. While being processed at the Genesee County Jail, Fox was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. She was arraigned and held at the Genesee County Jail.

Donnie Armstrong, 52, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd and criminal use of drug paraphernalia.  Armstrong was stopped on Feb. 5 on Law Street by members of the Batavia Police NET Unit. A K-9 was deployed. Narcotics were allegedly located in the vehicle. Armstrong was arraigned in City Court and held.

Charles P. Stevens, 36, of Batavia, and Eric J. Flowers, 37, of Batavia, are charged with criminal mischief 3rd. Stevens and Flowers are accused of intentionally damaging another person's vehicle on an unspecified date. They were issued appearance tickets.

Eric J. Flowers, 37, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, possession of stolen property 3rd, and aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd. Flowers was arrested on Feb. 5 following an investigation into a stolen utility trailer. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed without bail.

Mark W. McWethy, 57, of Batavia, is charged with DWAI Drugs, criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, criminal possession of a controlled substance 4th, and aggravated unlicensed operation 1st. McWethy was charged following a welfare check on Jan. 29 at a location on Ellicott Street, Batavia. He was arraigned and jailed.

Martin J. Rodgers, 40, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st. Rodgers allegedly violated an order of protection on Jan. 28. He was arraigned and released.

Tammy J. Lord, 48, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 3rd and grand larceny 3rd. Lord allegedly illegally entered a business on Liberty Street on Dec. 22 and stole properly. She was arrested on Jan. 21, arraigned in City Court, and released.

Carissa J. Visalli, 35, of Batavia, was arrested on Feb. 23 on a warrant. She allegedly failed to appear in court on a traffic ticket. She was arraigned and released.

Inge A. Stack, 55, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Stack is accused of hitting another person in the face during a fight on Pringle Avenue. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Julie L. Dutton, 29, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Dutton was arrested on Feb. 2, accused of stealing merchandise from Dollar General. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Brandie M. Sumeriski, 29, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Sumeriski is accused of slapping another person during an argument on Feb. 17 on State Street, Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Jamesha N. Wilson, 30, of Rochester, was arrested on Feb. 18 on a warrant. Wilson allegedly failed to appear in court on a traffic ticket. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

Guillermo Dediego-Reyes, 55, of Batavia, was arrested on Feb. 14 as a fugitive from justice. Dediego-Reyes was wanted on warrants out of Ohio. He was arraigned and held for extradition.

Curt A. Buchinger, 32, of Batavia, is charged with theft of services. Buchinger was arrested on Feb. 15, accused of running an extension cord from another property into his home. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Colleen M. Hutchinson, 50, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of controlled substance 7th. Hutchinson was stopped on Dec. 9 by a Batavia patrol officer and allegedly found in possession of narcotics. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Alicia M. Lyons, 45, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st and menacing 3rd. Lyons is accused of violating an order of protection on Feb. 3 by physically menacing another person. She was issued an appearance ticket. She was arrested again on Feb. 7 and charged with criminal contempt 1st and harassment 2nd.

Kim M Mobley, 62, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Mobley is accused of shoplifting on Feb. 11 from Aldi. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Richard J Burdick, 46, and Charles P. Stevens, 36, (no communities provided) are charged with assault 3rd. Burdick and Stevens are accused of injuring another person during a fight on South Main Street, Batavia. They were both issued appearance tickets.

Jena A. Defazio, 27, of Batavia, was arrested on Feb. 4 on a warrant. Defazio was issued a traffic ticket on Jan. 8 and allegedly failed to appear in court. Defazio was arraigned and released.

Courtney H. Kelley, 37, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Kelley is accused of shoplifting on Feb. 2 from Aldi. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Shawn M. Twardowski, 42, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Twardowski allegedly punched another person in the head on Feb. 2 during a fight on Highland Park. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Erin M. Klein, 38, of Cheektowaga, is charged with DWI. Klein was allegedly involved in a motor vehicle accident on Jan. 31 and an undisclosed location. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Roseann Cooper, 55, of Stafford, was arrested on Jan. 31 on a warrant. Cooper allegedly failed to appear on a traffic ticket issued on Jan. 4. She was arraigned and released.

Julie A. Earle, 50, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Earle is accused of shoplifting from Tops on Jan. 29. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Takari C. Blue, 23, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Blue was stopped by a Batavia patrol officer on Jan. 31 at an undisclosed location. She was issued traffic tickets and released.

Tammy J. Dean, 54, of Alexander, is charged with DWAI drugs. Dean was reportedly involved in a single-vehicle accident on Sept. 20. He was arrested on Jan. 27, arraigned in City Court, and released.

Jaequele M. Tomlin, 30, of Batavia, turned himself in on a warrant issued following an investigation into an incident on March 26. Tomlin was allegedly found in possession of cocaine. He was arraigned and released.

Douglas G. Goodwin, Jr., 33, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Goodwin is accused of violating an order of protection. He was arrested on Jan. 7, issued an appearance ticket and released.

Brittany L. Froman, 34, of Rochester, was arrested on a warrant on Jan. 23. Froman allegedly failed to appear on narcotics charge stemming from a traffic stop on June 12. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

Kimberly S. Snyder, 48, of Geneseo, was arrested on a warrant and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Snyder was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on Oct. 29. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

John W. Clack, 66, of Batavia, is charged with criminal tampering 3rd. Clack is accused of overturning another person's motorized scooter. He was arrested on Jan. 22. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Troy W. Horton, 60, of Le Roy, is charged with DWI. Horton was stopped after employees at Taco Bell called police and reported a possible intoxicated driver. Horton was issued an appearance ticket.

Catherine R. Bater, 44, of Batavia, is charged with attempted petit larceny. Bater was arrested on Jan. 25, accused of attempting to transfer money from another person's account into her Cash App. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Ronnie J. Sumeriski, 42, of Batavia, is charged with criminal tampering 3rd. Sumeriski is accused of taking the license plate off of another person's vehicle and throwing it under another car. He was also arrested on two open warrants. He was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

David R. Bowen, 83, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Bowen is accused of hitting another person during a fight on Mill Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Bill A. Thomas, 65, of Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd. Thomas was found inside the City Centre Mall on Feb. 27 after previously being barred from the property. He was issued an appearance ticket. He was arrested again the next day and charged with trespass after allegedly being found in the mall again.

Shannon H. Dick, 43, and John W. Biaselli, 56, both of Batavia, are charged with petit larceny. Dick and Biaselli are accused of stealing merchandise from Dollar General. They were issued appearance tickets.

Kimberly S. Snyder, 48, of Warsaw, was arrested on Feb. 27 on a warrant. Snyder allegedly failed to appear on a charge of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

Tonisia R. Longhini, 32, of Alexander, is charged with DWI. Longhini was charged following a traffic stop on Feb. 22 on Walnut Street, Batavia, by a Batavia patrol officer. She was arraigned and released.

Rebecca Lee Harrington, 31, of Sweetland Road, Stafford, is charged with falsely reporting an incident. Harrington was arrested on March 11. She was released on an appearance ticket. No further details released.

Law and Order: Batavia man accused of possession crack cocaine with intent to sell following traffic stop

By Howard B. Owens

Charles Phillp Stevens, 36, of Clinton Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of narcotics with intent to sell and criminal possession of a narcotic drug. Stevens was allegedly found in possession of cocaine during a traffic stop at 12:02 a.m. on March 7 on Lake Street Road, Le Roy. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending arraignment.

Clint Jeffery Towne, 44, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon 3rd. Towne was arrested at 9:15 p.m. on Feb. 28 on these charges following a prior on Feb. 21 on a separate incident. During a search of his property at a location on Phelps Road, Pembroke, he was allegedly found in possession of an assault weapon and multiple large-capacity magazines. He was incarcerated at the time and released back into the custody of the Genesee County Jail.

Justin A. Reisman, 36, of Water-Port Carlton Road, Carlton, is charged with tampering with physical evidence and obstructing governmental administration. Following a fatal motor vehicle accident on Tesnow Road at 8:04 p.m. on Feb. 23, Reisman allegedly entered the crime scene and remained unlawfully after being told to leave several times by sheriff's deputies. Reisman was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Jarad Michael Stalker, 40, of Indian Falls Road, Pembroke, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Stalker was arrested on Feb. 19 at 10:06 p.m. on a warrant and allegedly found with narcotics in a pocket of his clothing. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Tammy M. O'Shea, 53, of Main Road, Stafford, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and improper or unsafe turn. O'Shea was stopped at 2:35 a.m. on Feb. 22 on East Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Ryan Mullen. O'Shea was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Thomas Cody Schell, 38, of South Pearl Street, Oakfield, is charged with DWI and speeding. Schell was stopped at 2:34 a.m. on March 8 on Clinton Street Road, Bergen, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Schell was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Bonnie Jane Moser, 52, of Bethany Center Road, Bethany, is charged with petit larceny. Moser is accused of shoplifting from a store on Veterans Memorial Drive at 7:20 p.m. on March 8 (the Sheriff's Office did not disclose the name of the store in the arrest report).  Moser allegedly tried to steal six items valued at $95.12. She was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Brandi Rose Hough, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th.  Hough was arrested following a Probation Department home visit at 10:15 a.m. on March 7. She was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine. 

Dale R. Williams, 41, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation, and driving without insurance. Williams was stopped at 12:50 a.m. on March 1 on Richmond Avenue in Batavia by Deputy Ayrton Blankenberg. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Colleen Michell Hutchinson, 50, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, driving a vehicle without a stop lamp, and uninspected motor vehicle. Hutchinson was stopped at 4:48 p.m. on March 3 by Deputy Jeremy McClellan. She was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and "narcotic equipment used to smoke crack cocaine." She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Rashad Tariq Cordell, 25, of State Street Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 3rd and aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd. Cordell is accused of possessing a stolen vehicle at 10 p.m. on Feb. 27 on Park Road, Batavia. He was held pending arraignment.

Robert Paul Leiser, 56, of Lockport Road, Alabama, is charged with hindering prosecution 3rd. Leiser is accused of allowing Marc C. Cook to live on his property while knowing Cook had active felony warrants. Leiser was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Dana Lee Powers, 54, of Prestige Xing, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and operating a vehicle without stop lamps. Powers was stopped at 12:21 a.m. on Feb. 28 on Ellicott Street, Batavia, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Powers was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Raymond James Dick, 60, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Also arrested was Sandra L. Marsceill. They were allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance while in a parking lot on Veterans Memorial Drive at 3:48 p.m. on Feb. 25. They were transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Law and Order: Tonawanda man accused of stealing firearms from Batavia store

By Howard B. Owens
malachi nix
Malachi Nix

Malachi J Nix, 20, of Tonawanda, is charged with burglary 2nd, criminal possession of a weapon 2nd, grand larceny 3rd, criminal mischief 3rd, and conspiracy 4th. Nix and another person allegedly broke into Barrett's Batavia Marine on May 27 and stole firearms. He was arrested on Jan. 21, arraigned in City Court and was remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Clint J. Towne, 44, of Phelps Road, Batavia, and Steven M. Morales, 49, of Lewiston Road, Batavia, are charged with four counts each of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, tampering with physical evidence, criminally using drug paraphernalia 2nd, and aggravated unlicensed operation (Morales). Towne and Morales were arrested on Feb. 13. The was the result of an investigation into the location of a wanted suspect. During a traffic stop, Towne and Morales were allegedly found in possession of 50 grams of cocaine, an ounce of fentanyl, alprazolam tables, 46 sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone strips, and mannitol. Towne is suspected of attempting to destroy evidence. Both were held pending arraignment. The investigation was conducted by Sgt. Andrew Hale, deputies Nicholas Chamoun, Alexander Hasdall, Mason Schultz, Jon Dimming, Zachary Hoy, and Nicholas Jennings.

Marc Christopher James Cook, Jr., no age provided, of Lockport Road, Alabama, was arrested on Feb. 6 on eight separate warrants by members of the Batavia Emergency Response Team (consisting of members of the Sheriff's Office and Batavia PD). The warrants were related to charges of criminal possession of a weapon 3rd and 4th, bail jumping 2nd, two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, bail jumping 3rd, criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd, and violation of a family court act. Cook was arraigned and held without bail.

Robert Maynard Smith, 73, of North Street, Blasdell, is charged with menacing 2nd.  Smith is accused of wielding a box cutter knife, threatening a worker at Eagle Star Housing, 2620 West Main St., Batavia, at 6:06 p.m. on Feb. 14. Smith was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Nathan Lee Dunn, 20, of Prospect Avenue, Medina, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .108 or greater, aggravated unlicensed opeatertion 1st, unregistered motor vehicle, driving without financial security.  At 12:15 a.m. on Feb. 2, Deputy Zachary Hoy responded to the parking lot at Batavia Downs to investigate a motor vehicle accident, as a result, Dunn was taken into custody. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Chad Matthew Winkelman, 32, of Fullington Road, Attica, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, moving from lane unafely, and drinking alcohol or using cannabis in a motor vehicle. Winkelman was arrested by Deputy Jacob Kipler following a report of a motor vehicle accident at 11:42 p.m. on Feb. 2 on Sandpit Road, Alexander. He was processed at the Genesee Jail and released.

Kenneth G. Muckle, 56, of Franklin Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. Muckle is accused of stealing merchandise from a store (the Sheriff's Office withheld the name of the store) on Veterans Memorial Drive on Feb. 5. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Charles Phillip Stevens, 38, of Clinton Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Stevens was allegedly found in possession of buprenorphine/naloxone and cocaine during a traffic stop on Feb. 10 by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Christopher Earl Merrell, 62, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, aggravated unlicensed operation, and moving from lane unsafely. Merrell was arrested by Deputy James Stack following an investigation into a motor vehicle accident reported at 6:37 a.m. on Feb. 15 on Batavia Elba Townline Road, Batavia. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Lakeisha A Gibson, 38, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Gibson is accused of hitting another person multiple times during a fight on Bank Street on Jan. 21. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Christina M. Corde, 39, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Dordes is accused of shoplifting from Dollar General on Jan. 15. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Jennifer C. Moscicki, 48, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Moscicki is accused of stealing property from another person on Central Avenue in January 2022. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

Julie L. Dutton, 29, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Dutton is accused of using a counterfeit $100 bill to receive change at a local business on Jan. 20. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Donovan I. Reese, 18, of Batavia, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing. Reese is accused of grabbing another person and applying pressure around the person's neck during a fight on Sumner Street on Jan. 16. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Thomas J. Mitchell, 35, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Mitchell was allegedly found in possession of cocaine on Nov. 8 while being arrested on an unrelated matter. He was arrested on Jan. 16 on the drug charge and issued an appearance ticket.

Hailee N. Callicutt, 24, of Batavia, was arrested on Jan. 12 on three warrants. Two warrants were related to traffic stops. She was also charged with bail jumping 3rd. She was arraigned and released.

Jacob J. Frayne, 27, of Darien, was arrested on Jan. 17 on a warrant. He allegedly failed to appear on a prior DWI arrest. He was arraigned and released.

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