According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, on July 5, 2026, an incarcerated individual at the Oneida County Correctional Facility passed away. Sheriff Maciol reports that earlier today, Corrections Officers found the male unresponsive in his cell and immediately activated their emergency medical response protocol. Correctional Facility medical staff responded immediately and began life saving efforts. The Oriskany Fire Department and C.O.C.V.A.C. Ambulance were called and responded to the facility. The incarcerated male was transported to Wynn Hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. Due to the nature of the incident, the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office was contacted and responded to the correctional facility to also investigate. Source : Oneida County Sheriff The name of the incarcerated male is not yet being released until the next of kin has been notified. Further details of this death investigation will be released as soon as they can be. According to Sheriff Maciol, the Sheriff’s Office is conducting a full investigation into this death along with subsequent independent investigations by the New York State Commission of Corrections and the New York State Attorney General’s Office. The Office of Special Investigations within the Attorney General’s Office requires an investigation into the death of anyone who is in the custody of a police or peace officer anywhere in New York State.

Authorized by: Steven Lowell, Chief of Police Date: July 3rd, 2026 ONEIDA, NY – On July 2, 2026, at approximately 4:35 p.m., members of the Oneida Police Department were alerted to a reported robbery involving a handgun that had just occurred at the Delta Deli on Madison Street. Officers were already in the area handling an unrelated call when they were flagged down and advised of the incident. The victim reported that a male wearing a mask entered the store and stole merchandise. As the male was pursued, the subject allegedly turned around, pointed a black object which appeared to be a handgun, and threatened to shoot the pursuers. Officers located the suspect, identified as Gavin Becraft, approximately one block from the store. At the time he was located, Becraft was found to be in possession of a black mask, a stun gun-type device, and the stolen merchandise. Becraft was also found to be in possession of a quantity of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Becraft was arrested and charged with the following offenses: · Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a felony · Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree · Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance · Larceny · Two counts of Burglary, felonies · Menacing Becraft was transported for centralized arraignment and was remanded in lieu of $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond. The Oneida Police Department would like to recognize the quick actions of the responding officers, who were able to rapidly locate the suspect and recover the stolen property and items related to the incident. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Source: Oneida City Police Dept

The New York State Police today announced that it is competing in the 2026 American Association of State Troopers (AAST) 13th annual Best Looking Cruiser contest. Voting is now open through Monday, July 13, 2026, and the New York State Police is asking for your support! Please cast a vote for the NYSP entry at this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2026bestlookingcruiser. This year's NYSP entry features a 2025 Mustang GT patrol vehicle photographed at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, in front of the iconic I Love NY sign, with the State Capitol as a backdrop. The top 13 photos as judged by the public will be featured in the AAST's America's Best Looking Trooper Cruisers 2027 Wall Calendar, and the top vote getter will be featured on the cover. Proceeds from the sale of the calendar will benefit the American Association of State Troopers Foundation, which provides educational scholarships to dependents of member troopers. Learn more about the AAST here: https://www.statetroopers.org/ Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-compete-best-looking-cruiser

On June 30, 2026, State Police arrested Lana J. Yager, age 54, of Constantia, NY, in connection with a shooting investigation. Yager was charged with: • Assault in the First Degree (Class B Felony) • Criminal Use of a Firearm in the First Degree (Class B Felony) • Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class C Felony) On June 30, 2026, at approximately 8:11 p.m., State Police responded to 541 Salt Road in the town of Constantia for a reported medical emergency. Upon arrival, troopers determined the incident involved a shooting. A 911 caller reported that a male had arrived at a neighboring residence seeking assistance and was bleeding from his face. The victim reported he had been shot by Lana J. Yager. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the right facial area and was transported by ambulance to Upstate University Hospital, where he is listed in critical but stable condition. State Police were assisted at the scene by the Constantia Fire Department and Menter Ambulance. Yager was arraigned in Oswego County CAP Court and remanded to the Oswego County Correctional Facility in lieu of $25,000 cash bail, $50,000 bond, or $250,000 partially secured bond. Sources:https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-constantia-woman-following-shooting-investigation

A renewed push to crack down on short-term house flipping is drawing attention in New York, as lawmakers consider legislation aimed at discouraging investors from quickly buying, renovating, and reselling residential properties for profit. NY State Senate Bill 2025-S574A. The legislation is strictly drafted to apply only to property transfers within New York City. Supporters of the proposal argue that some investors purchase homes, make limited or cosmetic improvements, and then resell them at significantly higher prices, contributing to rising housing costs and pricing out families and first-time buyers. The proposed legislation would create a steep tax penalty on certain homes resold within two years. Under the bill, if a home is resold within one year of purchase for more than 10 percent above the original purchase price, the gain would be taxed at 65 percent. If the property is resold during the second year, the gain would be taxed at 50 percent. Investors would need to hold the property for at least two years to avoid the tax. While the measure is intended to discourage speculative real estate activity, critics warn it could have unintended consequences during an already strained housing market. They argue that many distressed or outdated homes rely on private investment to be repaired, updated, and returned to the market. Opponents say a punitive flip tax could lead investors to delay sales, avoid New York projects altogether, or redirect their money to other states with fewer restrictions. That could leave some homes sitting vacant longer, slow neighborhood revitalization, and reduce the number of move-in-ready homes available to buyers. The debate highlights a broader tension in New York’s housing crisis: how to prevent predatory real estate practices without discouraging legitimate renovation and redevelopment projects that can bring neglected properties back into use. As lawmakers continue to consider the proposal, the key question remains whether the legislation would make housing more affordable or whether it would further slow the return of vacant and distressed homes to the market.

A new presidential memorandum from President Donald Trump could give vehicle owners more freedom when it comes to repairing and maintaining their cars and trucks. The directive calls on the Environmental Protection Agency to clarify repair rights and streamline approval for legal aftermarket parts. Supporters say this could help drivers avoid being locked into expensive dealership-only repairs and give independent repair shops more room to compete. For vehicle owners, the issue comes down to cost and choice. Modern vehicles rely heavily on software, sensors, emissions systems, and manufacturer-controlled repair information. Right-to-repair advocates argue that drivers should be able to choose where their vehicle is repaired and what legal parts are used. The memorandum does not allow illegal emissions tampering or removal of required equipment. However, it could help clarify the difference between unlawful modifications and legitimate repairs meant to keep vehicles operating properly. If the EPA follows through, the move could benefit everyday drivers, small businesses, contractors, farmers, and local repair shops by expanding repair options and potentially lowering costs. For Central New York vehicle owners, changes may not happen overnight, but the memorandum signals a stronger push to protect the right to repair and keep vehicles on the road without unnecessary red tape.

Residents are being urged to prepare for dangerous heat and humidity this week, with temperatures expected to climb well into the 90s. Extreme heat can pose serious health risks, especially for older adults, young children, outdoor workers, people with medical conditions, and those without access to air conditioning. However, when heat and humidity reach dangerous levels, everyone can be at risk for heat-related illness. According to the New York State Department of Health, extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in New York State. This week’s heat risk ranges from moderate to extreme, meaning conditions could become dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Residents are encouraged to: Stay hydrated. Limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and pets. Use air conditioning or visit a cooling center if needed. Never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke Heat exhaustion symptoms may include heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and may include confusion, fainting, a very high body temperature, or hot, dry skin. Call 911 immediately if heat stroke is suspected. More information on heat risk and illness can be found through the New York State Department of Health’s Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard. Please take this week’s heat seriously, plan ahead, and look out for one another.

VERONA, N.Y. — The Verona community gathered on June 29th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Tuesday. And June 30th will be to honor the life and service of Assistant Chief Mike Hawthorne. The funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Verona Fire Department Station 1, located at 5555 Volunteer Ave. in Verona. Following the services, Assistant Chief Hawthorne will be escorted in a funeral procession from the fire station to Verona Cemetery on East Main Street. This procession will be a final tribute to a man who dedicated himself to serving others, standing beside his fellow firefighters, and answering the call when his community needed him. Assistant Chief Hawthorne’s loss is deeply felt by his family, his fire department, fellow first responders, and the many lives he touched. His dedication, courage, and service will never be forgotten. Departments, law enforcement, and EMS agencies wishing to take part with apparatus or help line the streets are asked to contact Sylvan Beach Fire Chief Ricky Johnson at (315) 762-7420. Please keep Assistant Chief Hawthorne’s family, friends, and the Verona Fire Department in your thoughts and prayers as the community comes together to honor his final ride. Memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s memory to the Verona Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 137, Verona, NY, 13478, or an educational fund for Caitlin and Allison.

VERONA, NY — If you’ve driven through Verona over the past several decades, you’ve probably seen Lucky the Bull — a quirky, towering roadside sculpture that has become one of the area’s most cherished local landmarks. Born from an unexpected twist of fate and embraced by the community, Lucky isn’t just a roadside statue — he’s part of local identity and history. Lucky the Bull: The True Story Behind Verona NY’s Iconic Roadside Landmark 📍 From Restaurant Mascot to Local Legend Lucky originally stood proudly at the corner of Route 365 and Route 31, outside Joel’s Front Yard Steakhouse, where he greeted travelers and diners alike. The massive fiberglass bull — thought to have been manufactured in Canada — was never intended to be a permanent public display, but locals quickly grew fond of him. In January 2016, the steakhouse was destroyed by a devastating fire. While the building burned, Lucky stood firm — surviving the blaze and earning a new place in local lore. 🔄 A Temporary Disappearance and Triumphant Return After the fire, Lucky went into what many residents called a period of seclusion — he disappeared from the roadside while plans for his future were discussed. For a time, it seemed that the landmark might remain only in memory. But Lucky resurfaced in 2019 with a special appearance at the Boonville Fair, reminding the community that he was still very much part of Verona’s cultural landscape. His brief return brought smiles, photo ops, and a renewed interest in preserving him for future years. 🌟 Still Around, Still Loved Today, Lucky remains a local icon — a fixture in community events and conversations. Efforts have been underway to clean and restore the sculpture ahead of the upcoming summer season, with local volunteers and supporters working to ensure he looks his best. Residents and visitors are encouraged to keep an eye out for Lucky this year — whether at summer fairs, seasonal celebrations, or just cruising through town on a sunny afternoon. 📸 What Lucky Means to Verona To many in the area, Lucky isn’t just a giant sculpture — he’s: A symbol of community resilience A piece of Verona’s roadside personality A favorite photo stop and memory maker Part of local stories shared across generations “I remember my parents pointing him out when I was a kid,” said Verona resident Marissa Owens. “Now I’m bringing my own kids to see him. He’s part of what makes this place home.” 🧭 Where to Spot Lucky Today Although no longer permanently posted at the old steakhouse site, Lucky still makes public appearances and is occasionally displayed at local events. Plans for ongoing restoration mean that this summer could be the best time yet to see him up close. For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, keep your eyes open while traveling State Routes 365 or 31 — you never know when Lucky might be nearby! 📝 A Landmark Worth Protecting Lucky the Bull may have started life as just a restaurant decoration, but he’s grown into something much more: a cherished piece of local heritage, a conversation starter, and a beloved symbol of Verona’s community spirit. As restoration efforts continue and summer events begin, Lucky’s presence promises to delight both longtime residents and curious visitors. Keep watching — and don’t forget your camera. 🐂📸

CENTRAL NEW YORK — Tornadoes, once considered rare across much of Central New York, are increasingly becoming part of the severe weather conversation as residents experience stronger storms and more frequent weather alerts. According to meteorologists, the region is seeing more atmospheric conditions capable of producing tornadoes, especially during late spring and early summer. While Central New York is not considered a high-risk tornado zone like the Midwest, experts say the risk is no longer negligible. Why Tornado Talk Is Increasing Recent years have brought: Stronger thunderstorms with damaging winds Higher humidity levels feeding storm systems More tornado warnings and confirmations across Upstate New York Increased public awareness due to social media and storm videos Officials emphasize that improved radar technology and storm detection also mean tornadoes are identified more accurately than in decades past, contributing to a rise in confirmed reports. What Meteorologists Are Saying Weather experts note that the Northeast — including Central New York — is experiencing more volatile storm patterns, driven by warmer air masses colliding with cooler systems moving east. The National Weather Service has repeatedly highlighted that severe thunderstorms in the region can, under the right conditions, produce brief or isolated tornadoes, particularly during high-impact storm days. Recent Storms Raise Awareness Several confirmed tornadoes in recent years across nearby counties have shifted public perception, prompting more residents to take warnings seriously and seek shelter during severe weather alerts. Emergency officials stress that most tornadoes in New York are short-lived and weaker, but they can still cause significant damage to homes, trees, and power lines. Peak Tornado Season in Central NY Historically, the greatest risk occurs: From late May through July During hot, humid afternoons followed by fast-moving storms When strong cold fronts sweep through the region This timing coincides with the current period of heightened storm activity. What Residents Should Know Officials recommend that residents: Monitor local forecasts during severe weather days Understand the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning Identify a safe location indoors, such as a basement or interior room Avoid relying solely on outdoor sirens or social media for alerts The Bottom Line Tornadoes remain uncommon in Central New York, but experts agree the region is experiencing conditions that support more severe weather than in the past. As storm patterns evolve, awareness and preparedness are becoming increasingly important. Residents are urged to stay informed as the peak of severe weather season continues.

On June 27, 2026, at approximately 4:30 p.m., State Police responded to State Highway 365 at Blackmans Corners Road in the town of Verona for a personal injury accident involving a pickup truck and motorcycle. A preliminary investigation revealed a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Clayton C. Bellows, age 66, of Clinton, NY, was attempting to cross traffic after stopping at Blackmans Corners Road when it was struck by a 2002 Harley-Davidson motorcycle traveling westbound in the passing lane on State Highway 365. The operator of the motorcycle, a 30-year-old male, sustained fatal injuries as a result of the collision and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Bellows was not injured in the crash. State Police Oneida and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) are continuing the investigation. State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) and a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) responded to the scene. Traffic was diverted in the area, but has since reopened. The investigation remains ongoing. Source: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-fatal-motorcycle-crash-verona

The Oneida County Health Department (OCHD) announced today that it has scheduled rabies vaccination clinics. The events will take place: July 13, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Vienna Town Garage (previously announced) August 3, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Rome Kennedy Arena (newly announced) October 9, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Town of Trenton Offices (newly announced). Source: https://oneidacountyny.gov/departments/health/press-releases/