On August 18, 2025, at 4:48 A.M., Troopers out of SP Buffalo responded to the I-90, westbound in the town of Hamburg for a possible tractor-trailer that struck a pedestrian. Investigation determined that Darryl K. Jones, 60 of Yalaha, FL walked from a nearby hotel onto the I-90. Jones walked into the driving lane and was struck by a 2023 Kenwood traveling westbound. The operator thought it might have been a deer and continued traveling on the I-90, but after reviewing the dashcam footage it was a pedestrian. Law Enforcement was contacted at that point. Jones was located in a nearby ditch deceased.  The Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office responded and removed the deceased for post-mortem examination. No signs of foul play and the scene was consistent with that of an accidental death. The NYSP Collision Reconstruction Unit, Forensic Identification Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit assisted in this investigation.

Project Complements Governor Hochul’s $400 Million Championing Albany’s Potential Initiative To Revitalize Albany’s Downtown Core   Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the beginning of the demolition of the Central Warehouse in Albany. For decades, the Central Warehouse building has been an eyesore discouraging investments and economic growth for the community. Governor Hochul is stepping up and providing $11.6 million in State funding to tear down Albany’s number one symbol of blight. The funding for this project was recommended by the Capital Region Economic Development Council to encourage community development and neighborhood growth through the elimination of blighted structures. This project complements Governor Hochul’s Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP) Initiative, a $400 million State investment to revitalize Albany’s downtown core.  “Out with the old and in with the new — the Central Warehouse has been an eyesore for our State’s Capital Region, and today, we are finally taking the necessary steps to do something about it,” Governor Hochul said.  “The demolition of the Central Warehouse will not only eliminate blight, unused spaces, but it’ll allow for new opportunities to bolster the community and uplift economic growth.”  Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said,  “Thank you to Governor Hochul for her steadfast support of this effort, adding more than $11.6 million to our County ARPA fund investment of $3 million to get this project over the finish line. The Central Warehouse has been the biggest eyesore in upstate New York for decades and became a symbol of economic decline rather than growth. Its demolition will mark a new chapter for our community and serve as a powerful reminder that change can happen, even if it takes years of persistence. Now, we will begin the process of envisioning what happens next.”  The Central Warehouse, prominently located alongside I-787 at the entrance to Downtown Albany, is an 11-story eyesore that has slowly deteriorated in front of the entire Capital Region for the last several decades. While significant attempts have been made to rehabilitate the building, it became clear that demolition is the only viable option.  The project plan includes a six-month asbestos abatement phase immediately followed by a demolition phase. It will generate approximately 90,000 tons of clean concrete which will be sent offsite for beneficial reuse/recycling, diverting this waste stream from the landfill. In addition to removing a prominent, contaminated and deteriorating eyesore, the project will create a 1.1-acre investment-ready site in a growing area of the City of Albany.  Championing Albany’s Potential   Governor Hochul’s FY26 Budget established the Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP) Initiative, a more than $400 million, collaborative, State-led effort to revitalize Albany’s downtown core in partnership with the local community. This includes $200 million in funding to plan and implement projects that reinvigorate commercial corridors, strengthen small businesses, promote housing growth, and revitalize underutilized real estate and open spaces. The CAP initiative also includes up to $150 million to transform cultural experiences in and around Albany’s Downtown such as the State Museum, up to $40 million to advance plans to reconnect communities divided by Interstate 787 and $1.5 million for public safety enhancements. Earlier this month, Governor Hochul  kicked off   the CAP Initiative’s first Downtown Albany Strategy public workshop, held at the Albany Capital Center. The workshop drew over 700 participants, including Albany residents and partners from business, academia and government.  Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said,  “For years, Central Warehouse has loomed over the Capital City skyline in disrepair, and the demolition of this longstanding blighted building represents a new era for Downtown Albany. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, and in partnership with Albany County, bold actions are finally being taken, which will support new opportunities for revitalization and community development at a crucial point in the city’s long history.”   Read the full press release here .

Sylvan Beach may be small in size, but this lakeside gem on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake is packed with charm, history, and plenty to do. Whether you’re visiting for a day or making it your summer getaway, here are five spots you won’t want to miss. 1. Sylvan Beach Amusement Park 🎡 Step back in time at this vintage amusement park that has been entertaining visitors for over a century. With a mix of classic rides, arcade games, and a touch of old-school nostalgia, it’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves a little carnival fun by the water. 2. The Beachfront & Boardwalk 🏖 The heart of Sylvan Beach is its sandy shoreline. Spread out a towel, take a swim, or just enjoy the view of Oneida Lake’s sparkling waters. The boardwalk is lined with shops, ice cream stands, and snack shacks, giving you that perfect seaside-town feel. 3. Sylvan Beach Diner & Local Eats 🍔 Foodies will appreciate Sylvan Beach’s mix of casual and unique dining spots. The historic Sylvan Beach Diner serves up hearty breakfasts and comfort food favorites, while lakeside restaurants offer fresh seafood, burgers, and live music on summer nights. 4. Verona Beach State Park 🌲 Just a short drive from the village, this park offers beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and another stretch of sandy beach. It’s a quieter escape if you’re looking for a little nature between your boardwalk adventures. 5. Nightlife & Entertainment 🎶 When the sun sets, Sylvan Beach keeps the fun going. Enjoy live bands, waterfront bars, and seasonal events like fireworks over the lake. From family-friendly evenings to adult-night-out fun, there’s always something happening in the summer. Whether you come for the rides, the food, or just the view of the sunset over Oneida Lake, Sylvan Beach is a summer destination that packs a lot of charm into a small town.

On August 8, 2025, at approximately 10:22 p.m., troopers out of State Police Catskill observed a 2016 Subaru operating in violation of New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law on West Main Street in the village of Catskill. A traffic stop was initiated, and troopers interviewed the sole occupant of the vehicle, identified as Michael Hollywood , age 39, of Coxsackie, NY. During the investigation, a search of Hollywood was conducted, which yielded illegal narcotics on his person. The vehicle was also searched, and the following illegal narcotics were found within the vehicle: •              Approximately 3.19 grams of crack cocaine •              Multiple glass pipes with cocaine residue •              Approximately 14.57 grams of Ecstasy (MDMA) •              A scale •              Metal bowl with approximately 0.3 grams of crack cocaine •              Approximately 7.04 grams of cocaine •              Approximately 2.45 grams of Alprazolam   Hollywood was arrested and transported to State Police Catskill for processing without incident. Hollywood was charged with the following: •              Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree, class B felony •              Criminal Possession of a Narcotic Drug 4th Degree, class C felony •              Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 5th Degree, class D felony •              Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th Degree, class A misdemeanor •              Manufacture of Drug-Related Paraphernalia, class A misdemeanor •              Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia 2nd Degree (Scales), class A misdemeanor •              Multiple Uniform Traffic Tickets   Hollywood was arraigned at the Town of Catskill Court and remanded to Greene County Jail with no bail. He is due back in court on August 28, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/traffic-stop-leads-narcotics-arrest-village-catskill

On August 11, 2025, at about 4:45 a.m., State Police responded to a reported crash between two tractor-trailers that occurred in the northbound lanes of the New York State Thruway between Exits 20 & 21 in Catskill, NY.  The investigation revealed that a 2024 Peterbilt tractor-trailer, being driven by  Andnet Yitna Kirubel, 28, of Windsor, Ontario, Canada, was traveling northbound in the left lane, when he attempted to move into the right lane and struck the rear of a 2018 Freightliner driven by Jorge Montes De Oca, age 56, of Miami, FL. The Peterbilt continued to sideswipe the other truck as they traveled north until it veered off onto the right shoulder and the cab overturned, while the trailer came to rest against the guiderail.  Neither driver was injured, and no tickets were issued. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-respond-crash-involving-two-tractor-trailers-thruway-catskill

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol, three teenagers are facing felony charges after a burglary at Vernon-Verona-Sherrill High School during the overnight hours of July 28, 2025. School employees arriving the next morning discovered evidence of tampering and damage inside the building. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division, Forensic Identification Unit, and Juvenile Aid Unit responded to investigate. After reviewing school security footage, investigators identified the suspects as two 18-year-old former students from Verona and a 16-year-old male juvenile whose name has not been released due to his age. All three were charged with Burglary in the Third Degree , a Class D felony. One 18-year-old suspect was arraigned in Oneida County CAP Court and released on his own recognizance, pending a future court appearance in Verona Town Court. The juvenile suspect was arraigned in Oneida County Court Youth Part and released to a guardian, pending his return to Youth Part at a later date. The other 18-year-old suspect was not located during the investigation and is believed to have left the state. The Sheriff’s Office has requested an arrest warrant for him through Verona Town Court.

Town of Babylon, Suffolk County – August 10, 2025 A tragic accident at Belmont Lake State Park  claimed the life of a two-year-old child Sunday afternoon. According to New York State Police , the incident occurred at approximately 2:43 p.m.  in the park’s North parking lot , when the child was struck by a 2016 Acura . The driver of the vehicle immediately called 911  and remained at the scene, cooperating fully with investigators. Following a thorough review, authorities determined no criminality  was involved. “We are deeply saddened to confirm that the child succumbed to their injuries,” State Police said in a statement. “Out of respect for the family and due to the sensitive nature of the incident, as well as the age of the victim, no further details will be released at this time.” Belmont Lake State Park, a popular family destination in the Town of Babylon, was the scene of a swift emergency response, but officials emphasized the devastating nature of the accident. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/child-fatally-struck-belmont-lake-state-park

On August 10, 2025, at 6:42 P.M., Troopers out of SP Lockport responded to a 911 call for a 17-year-old male swimming in a pond that went under water and did not resurface near Deer View Drive in the town of Royalton. Numerous first responders entered the water in an attempt to locate the male with negative results. NYSP Under Water Recovery Team and members of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team responded and continued searching the pond.  At 8:53 P.M., NCSO Dive Team members recovered the deceased victim in approximately ten feet of water. The 17-year-old was transported to Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office pending autopsy. Family has been notified. The name of the 17-year-old will be released at a later time. No signs of foul play, this is still an active investigation. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/teen-drowns-town-royalton

UPDATE:  August 11, 2025, 9:00 a.m. On August 11, 2025, at approximately 12:39 a.m., troopers out of State Police Tarrytown responded to a two-car motor vehicle collision on Interstate 87 northbound in Clarkstown, NY. The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2009 Nissan was disabled, partially in the lane of travel and on the right shoulder of Interstate 87 for unknown reasons, with all lights off. A 2014 Ford was traveling northbound on Interstate 87 in the same lane when it rear-ended the Nissan, causing both vehicles to spin out across all lanes of travel and strike the median on the left shoulder. The operator of the Nissan, identified as Steven Redner , age 47, of Tallman, NY, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The operator of the Ford, identified as a 25-year-old male of Elmsford, NY, received life-saving measures from EMS at the scene before being transported to Westchester Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. State Police were assisted at the scene by Nanuet EMS and the Nanuet Fire Department. The investigation is ongoing. UPDATE: All northbound lanes of the NYS Thruway at Exit 12 in Clarkstown, Rockland County, are now open, crash has been cleared. On August 11, 2025, at about 12:50 a.m., State Police responded to a reported crash involving two vehicles on the NYS Thruway northbound at mile post marker 21.7, north of Exit 12 in Clarkstown, Rockland County. One person has been declared deceased. All northbound lanes are closed at Exit 12, detours are in place.

The New York State Police are warning the public after recently receiving an increasing number of complaints from victims of computer and phone scams.  Most recently, several citizens have been targeted in the Otsego County area. Troopers have learned that several victims have lost thousands of dollars and some have even lost their life savings. A victim recently reported to Investigators in Sidney that they got a pop-up alert on their computer monitor and it appeared to be from Apple.  The pop-up message appeared with a phone number to dial for help.  When the victim called it, the scammer on the other end told the victim that their account was linked to child pornography, that the victim’s identity was compromised and that their personal information was on the dark web.  The victim was then told to contact another number which was allegedly to the U.S Department of Treasury’s Anti-Fraud Division.  The scammers even sent a “courier” to the victim’s house to pick up payment to allegedly fix the problem. Please do not fall for these scams.  The scammer is trying to manipulate your emotions and create urgency to push you into giving them money, gold bars, bitcoin, crypto currency or gift cards.  A real tech company will never ask you to call a phone number.  Please do not share your personal information.  Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/warning-public-be-cautious-pop-alerts-your-computer

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Uqoeon Lawrence, age 29, of Syracuse, was sentenced last week to 180 months in prison for drug trafficking, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and firearms trafficking.  Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement.  Lawrence previously admitted that he repeatedly sold controlled substances, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, in the Syracuse area, and that he possessed a shotgun to protect his drug trafficking.  Lawrence was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had a prior felony conviction.  Lawrence also admitted that he had illegally received from another person two semi-automatic pistols that had been purchased in Maine and brought to Syracuse, and that Lawrence then re-sold the firearms to other individuals in Syracuse. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said, “Uqoeon Lawrence peddled toxic drugs in Syracuse, protected his drug business with illegal firearms, and profited by pumping still more illegal guns into our community.  Syracuse is safer with Lawrence behind bars, where he will remain for 15 years.  My office is committed to bringing dangerous drug dealers like Lawrence to justice.” ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated: “This case reflects our unwavering commitment to working alongside our law enforcement partners to protect the people of Syracuse. When individuals flood our streets with guns and deadly drugs, we respond as one team — focused on safeguarding our communities and holding offenders accountable. I’m grateful for the strong collaboration between ATF New York Syracuse Field Office, DEA, the Syracuse Police Department Intelligence Unit, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.” Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also imposed a 5-year term of supervised release to follow Lawrence’s term of imprisonment. This case was investigated by ATF, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Syracuse Police Department-Intelligence Unit (SPD-INTEL). The case was prosecuted by Assistance U.S. Attorney Nicolas Commandeur and retired Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Southwick. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn .

Press Release: On August 6, 2025, members of the New York State Police arrested 35-year-old Preston S. Premo from Madrid, NY, for unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, third degree. The incident began on April 30, 2025, at approximately 8:32 a.m. Troopers observed a green 2005 Chevrolet traveling north on State Highway 420 in Stockholm, which was violating vehicle and traffic laws. The Trooper activated their emergency lights in an attempt to stop the car, but the driver failed to comply and fled, initiating a pursuit. The chase ended on Sober Street in Norfolk, where the driver exited the vehicle and ran into a wooded area. Members of the State Police, the St. Lawrence County Sheriff's Department, and U.S. Border Patrol assisted in the search for the driver, who was later identified as Premo. Troopers continued to actively search for Premo after the incident. He was located and arrested without incident on N. Main Street in the village of Norfolk on August 6, 2025. Premo was transported to SP Massena for processing, where he received vehicle and traffic tickets. He was arraigned in the Town of Norfolk Court and subsequently released on his own recognizance. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/madrid-male-arrested-unlawful-fleeing-police-officer