CHESTER, NY — A late-night food delivery turned into a life-threatening ordeal when a DoorDash driver was shot while asking for directions in a quiet Chester neighborhood. Now, a local official faces serious felony charges in connection with the shooting. On May 3, 2025, New York State Police arrested 48-year-old John J. Reilly III of Valerie Drive, Chester, following a swift investigation by the Troop F Bureau of Criminal Investigation at SP Monroe. The incident began the night before, around 9:50 p.m., when police were notified that a gunshot victim had arrived at Garnet Health Medical Center. Investigators learned the victim, a DoorDash driver, was delivering food in the Valerie Drive area and had become disoriented while trying to locate the delivery address. After unsuccessfully navigating with the app, the driver reportedly approached multiple homes for directions — including the home of John Reilly III. Rather than offer help, Reilly allegedly ordered the man off his property, then fired multiple gunshots as the victim attempted to leave. One round struck the driver in the back, causing serious injuries. Reilly, who serves as the Chester Highway Superintendent and is a federally licensed firearms dealer, was taken into custody and processed at SP Monroe. He now faces several charges, including: Assault in the First Degree (Class B Felony) Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class C Felony) Criminal Possession of a Firearm (Class E Felony) He was arraigned at the Orange County Centralized Arraignment Part and remanded to jail in lieu of $250,000 cash bail, a $500,000 bond, or $750,000 partially secured bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 9 at 9:00 a.m. in the Town of Chester Court. The case remains under investigation by the New York State Police, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact SP Monroe BCI at (845) 344-5300. sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/new-york-state-police-arrest-chester-man-following-doordash-shooting-incident

Press Release On May 3, 2025, State Police responded to the reports of a motorcycle crash in the area of Bacon Street in Glens Falls, NY. On May 3, 2025, at about 12:23 a.m. Troopers responded to Bacon Street in Glens Falls, NY for the report of a motorcycle crash. The operator of the motorcycle was identified as Alex S. Morehouse, 38 of Warrensburg, NY, and the passenger of the motorcycle as Suzie J. Etu, 38 of South Glens Falls, NY. Both sustained severe injuries during the crash. Morehouse was declared deceased at the scene and Etu was later declared deceased at the Glens Falls Hospital. Further investigation determined at approximately 12:20 a.m. Troopers attempted to stop the involved motorcycle on State Route 9 near the intersection of Hidden Farm Road in Queensbury, NY for a speeding violation but the motorcycle failed to comply. Troopers disengaged their emergency lights and stopped pursuing the vehicle at the intersection of State Route 9 and Lafayette Street due to public safety concerns caused by the motorcycle's reckless speed. A short time later members of the Glens Falls Police Department observed the motorcycle strike a curb and crash on Bacon Street at the intersection of Glen Street in Glens Falls, NY. The New York State Attorney General’s Office was notified of the crash and responded to the scene.  The investigation is ongoing.   https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-double-fatal-motorcycle-crash-glens-falls

press release *Update: On May 3, 2025, at 8:00 a.m., an autopsy was performed at Glens Falls Hospital by Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Sikirica. The autopsy for Raymond G. Bradley, age 62, of Morrisonville, NY, determined that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head, abdomen, and thorax, and the manner of death was ruled an accident. ==================================== Update: On May 2, 2025, Troopers responded to a report of a pedestrian being struck by a motor vehicle on Porter Road in the town of Beekmantown. An investigation revealed that a gray 2013 Kia Sorento, driven by 50 -year-old Linda N. Gremich-Blake of Morrisonville, NY , was traveling westbound on Porter Road when she struck an individual in the roadway. The victim was identified as 62-year-old Raymond G. Bradley, also from Morrisonville, NY . The Beekmantown Fire Department arrived at the scene and found Bradley on the south shoulder of the road, showing no signs of life. The Clinton County Coroner arrived, pronounced Bradley deceased at the scene, and ordered his removal. An autopsy is scheduled for May 3, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. at Glens Falls Hospital. The roadway was reopened. This is an ongoing investigation. State Police were assisted at the scene by the Clinton County Sheriff's Department, CVPH EMS, and the Beekmantown Fire Department. ================================================================================ On May 2, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m., State Police responded to a car-pedestrian collision on Porter Road in the town of Beekmantown. They are actively investigating the incident, and the road will remain closed until further notice. State Police members who responded to the scene included the Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the Collision Reconstruction Unit. This is an ongoing investigation.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton today encouraged new and returning visitors to Salmon River Falls Unique Area in the town of Orwell, Oswego County, to follow site-specific rules and signage to prevent potential injuries and ensure sustainable use of this sensitive natural area. Visitors may be ticketed for entering restricted areas or violating regulations. “New York State is home to beautiful natural treasures that attract visitors from across the state and the country, and following area regulations helps visitors protect themselves and others, as well as the Salmon River and its picturesque falls,” said Acting Commissioner Lefton. “DEC encourages visitors to enjoy Salmon River Falls safely, responsibly, and sustainably while they get offline and get outside.” DEC continues to observe an increase in visitation to Salmon River Falls Unique Area and its focal point, the 110-foot waterfall located upstream of DEC’s Salmon River Fish Hatchery. Salmon River Falls site-specific regulations include: The area is open to the public from sunrise to sunset; Access to restricted areas is prohibited including within 15 feet of the falls edge, all cliff faces, and falling rock zones; Swimming and wading in the plunge pool is prohibited; Pets must be leashed and under control at all times; Camping, open fires, rock climbing, and the possession of alcoholic beverages, glass containers, or paint while on the property is prohibited; Parking is limited to designated areas and off-road motor vehicle use is prohibited (including snowmobiles, cars, trucks, motorcycles, and ATVs); Visitors must carry out all trash and refuse; and Cutting of live trees, building of new trails, throwing projectiles, or causing anything to fall over the gorge is strictly prohibited.  Visit these nearby DEC lands for your outdoor adventures when the Salmon River Falls parking area is at or near capacity: Altmar State Forest ;  Chateaugay State Forest ;  Hall Island State Forest ; and  Salmon River State Forest DEC and partners continue to advance projects to enhance public access and safety at Salmon River Falls Unique Area. On the Gorge Trail, the Adirondack Mountain Club implemented a major restoration consisting of widening the trail to facilitate two-way traffic, widening and replacing portions of the upper stone staircase, and resurfacing the trail to improve drainage and tread. On the Falls Trail, DEC Operations staff resurfaced the trail and added additional drainage. Governor Kathy Hochul’s  “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative promotes physical and mental health by helping New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. DEC encourages all visitors to be prepared and  Hike Smart by staying on designated trails and wearing proper gear and attire, including footwear appropriate for trail conditions.  Additional site-specific information is available on DEC’s website.

Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, joined by numerous agriculture officials, held an in-the-field press conference to urge motorists to watch for slow-moving agriculture vehicles and to remind farmers of their responsibilities when operating farm equipment on public roads. Oneida County’s  “Share the Road” initiative was also discussed. The event was held at the Broulette Farms on Broulette Road in the Town of Marshall.   In addition to the Sheriff’s Office members, those in attendance included Oneida County Farm Bureau President Neil Collins, Mary Beth McEwen – Executive Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County, Myron Thurston – Cornell Cooperative Extension Agriculture Economic Development Specialist, Carl Mierek - Cornell Cooperative Extension Food System Specialist, and Farmer Ben Simons – local agriculture advocate.   “This time of year, we are now beginning to see farm vehicles and equipment on the roads and motorists need to be ready to respond appropriately. These vehicles are extremely important to Oneida County’s agriculture community, which is our county’s largest industry, according to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol.   “Farmers are the lifeblood of Oneida County,” Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said. “Not only do they put food on our tables, but agriculture is the main industry that drives our economy. As our farmers take to the roads with their vehicles and equipment this time of year, we must be aware of their presence to ensure everyone’s safety. Please use caution when traveling near county farmland so we can all ‘Share the Road’ together.”     When motorists encounter a slow-moving vehicle on the roadway they should:   •Slow down immediately •Increase following distance to create a safety cushion •Be alert and watch for unexpected turns •Pass with care only when it is safe and legal to do so •Be aware that animal-powered vehicles may make unanticipated movements •Be aware that equipment in tow may sway on the road •Remember slow-moving vehicle operators may have poor visibility due to loads and equipment in tow   Operators of the farm tractors & equipment should be aware that the slow-moving vehicle triangle should be placed in the center of the back end of the vehicle, located two to six feet above the road, and kept clean and replaced when faded. Each piece of agricultural equipment, whether self-propelled or used in combination, must separately display the required emblems. It is illegal to put slow-moving vehicle emblems on stationary objects – such as mailboxes or driveway posts.   Under state law, self-propelled agricultural equipment can be used on public roads after dark and when visibility is less than 1,000 feet when it has two white headlamps, one red tail light on the rear as far left as possible and two amber lamps at least 42 inches high and visible from the front and rear.   Vehicles drawn by animals (horse & buggy) must display on the rear either a slow-moving vehicle triangle or a lighted lantern with a red lens at least four inches in diameter, with the center of the lens to be 42 inches above the ground, the lantern to be near the left edge of the vehicle. The vehicle also should have 72 square inches of a high quality white or whitish-gray reflective tape. Lieutenant Curtis Morgan Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Community Affairs Unit 315-765-2220 www.oneidacountysheriff.us cemorgan@sheriff.oneidacountyny.gov

Verona, NY – Andrew and Melanie Catello, husband-and-wife owners of My Upstate NY Marketing, are making waves in Verona with an ambitious plan to breathe new life into the area. With a shared passion for fostering community growth and supporting local businesses, the Catellos, alongside their two sons, Gabreal and Connor, have recently purchased three prominent properties in Verona, signaling the start of an inspiring revitalization effort. One of their most exciting ventures is the revival of 5633 State Route 31, now officially named 31 West Plaza LLC. This small strip of storefronts, long overdue for renewal, is being transformed into a vibrant hub for small businesses. The Catellos’ plans include cleaning up the area, modernizing the storefronts, and creating an inviting space where local entrepreneurs can thrive. “We see so much potential here,” said Andrew Catello. “This isn’t just about real estate; it’s about bringing people together and giving local businesses a chance to shine.” They’ve wasted no time getting started. Since the purchase just this past week, cleanup crews have already removed several dumpsters’ worth of debris, and neighbors are already noticing the difference. In addition, the Catellos have acquired the historic Verona Methodist Church and the parsonage home next door. These cherished landmarks will serve as the cornerstone of their mission to foster connection and community spirit. Plans include hosting a wide range of events—from local charity fundraisers to weddings and gatherings that bring Verona residents together. “Both of these buildings hold so much history and promise,” said Melanie Catello. “We want to honor that history while giving these spaces a new purpose—one that uplifts the community and supports meaningful causes.” The Catello family’s vision doesn’t end with property. As the owners of My Upstate NY Marketing, they are leveraging their expertise in digital advertising and regional promotion to showcase Verona’s untapped potential, positioning it as a destination for businesses, events, and visitors alike. Their community-first approach is already gaining traction and praise. “This is exactly what our town needs,” said one local business owner. “It’s inspiring to see people investing not just money, but heart, into our community.” Andrew, Melanie, Gabreal, and Connor remain optimistic and committed to the town’s future. They hope their efforts will spark a larger movement of local investment and collaboration. “Together, we can create something truly special,” Andrew said. “It starts with a vision, but it takes a community to make it a reality.” With hands-on dedication and a bold, family-driven approach, the Catellos are proving that small-town revitalization isn’t just a dream, it’s already in motion.

On April 26th, 2025, at approximately 12:30 AM Utica Police and Utica Fire units were dispatched to a residence on the 1400 block of Sunset Ave regarding a stabbing investigation. Upon arrival,l they were met by several parties who stated that the resident’s ex-husband had arrived on scene and began an argument with her current boyfriend. During the course of the argument, the ex-husband brandished a knife and caused a significant laceration to the boyfriend’s face. Following this, the suspect fled the scene. Then, at approximately 2:00 AM a ShotSpotter Alert notification showed that multiple gunshots were fired at that same residence. Officers arrived on scene and learned that several shots were fired at the residence and at a vehicle that was parked in the driveway. Information was soon developed that the suspect in the incident was the ex-husband as well. In speaking with parties present it was learned that the ex-husband arrived back at the residence, once again engaged the individuals there in a physical altercation, and upon exiting the residence, fired multiple shots at the home and vehicle before again fleeing the scene. As officers were on scene victims there began to receive text messages from the suspect threatening further acts of harm. Officers began to look for the suspect due to the multiple incidents, and at approximately 4:00AM they were dispatched to a residence on the 1500 block of Lincoln Ave regarding a domestic incident. Upon arrival they learned the suspect to be inside, and negotiations began to have him exit. After over and hour and a half, a Patrol Sergeant was able to convince the suspect to exit and he was taken into custody without issue. The multiple cases were assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division and later that morning a search was conducted of the Lincoln Ave residence where a loaded .380 handgun was located. On the 26th, Paris Smith age 31 of Utica was charged with: Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the second degree Criminal Possession of a Firearm Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree Assault in the second degree Aggravated Harassment in the second degree Harassment in the second degree Additional charges may be levied after consultation with the District Attorney’s Office.

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, at about 10:15 AM, the Rome Police Department Patrol Division responded to Liberty Gardens Apartments for a reported menacing in progress involving a weapon. While on scene, the victim gave officers a description of three male suspects and reported that one of the males displayed what appeared to be a handgun. Responding officers observed a vehicle in the area that was occupied by three males matching the description of the suspects and upon conducting a traffic stop of the vehicle, one of the males exited the vehicle and fled on foot. While fleeing, officers observed what appeared to be a handgun fall from the back of his waistband. After a short foot pursuit, the male was taken into custody without further incident. Upon collecting the handgun for evidence, it was deemed to be a pellet gun. While in custody, the male who fled was identified to be a juvenile. The males who remained in the vehicle were also juveniles. During the course of this investigation one of the juvenile males was charged with one count of Menacing in the 2nd degree. He was given an appearance ticket returnable to Oneida County Probation at a later date. The involved juvenile males were all transported to the Rome Police Department and returned to the care of a parent/guardian. Their identities will not be released due to their ages https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1088012353367106&set=a.302652858569730

New York City’s proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 operating budget relies on $7.4 billion in federal government funding, accounting for 6.4% of total spending, according to a series of briefs released today by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. DiNapoli’s office estimates that recent federal government actions to cut grant programs could jeopardize at least $535 million of federal aid in FY 2025 and FY 2026, but notes that nearly all federal operating aid that flows to the city could be subject to cuts or elimination.  “New York City has already been notified of hundreds of millions of dollars in cuts or pauses to federal funding for this year and next, but the full impact of recent actions by Washington is not yet known,” DiNapoli said. “To better inform taxpayers and policymakers, my office has examined the largest federal grants the city receives and the potential risks that cuts to those grants pose to the city’s operating budget and New Yorkers.”  In January, the administration announced a temporary pause on obligations and disbursements of federal assistance that is in effect until the administration completes a review of each grant program to identify inconsistencies with the President’s executive orders. Based on DiNapoli’s analysis , nearly all federal operating receipts anticipated by the city would be subject to the review.  Through April 8, the city received notifications of paused and partially or fully terminated federal awards which DiNapoli’s office estimates could have a negative operating budget impact up to nearly $400 million in FY 2025 and $135 million in FY 2026. However, this only considers budgeted amounts as of the FY 2026 Preliminary Budget and does not include changes that may be made to programs as part of the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 budget.  DiNapoli’s report notes that federal funds cover a higher share of essential services that the city provides to its most vulnerable residents, notably education, social services, and housing. Federal funds also provide direct support to semi-autonomous organizations such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the New York City Housing Authority, the City University of New York, and New York City Health + Hospitals, and to other health care providers and non-profit organizations that serve New Yorkers.  The city’s FY 2025 operating budget includes nearly $9.7 billion of federal funds, comprising 8.3% of total spending. This includes $1.1 billion of pandemic funds, which the city uses in part to fund recurring programs. In FY 2026 federal funding drops to $7.4 billion, due largely to the winddown of pandemic funds, which total just $65.2 million in FY 2026, and conservative assumptions by the city for federal grants and whether they are recurring.  DiNapoli’s analysis found: The city’s 10 largest federal awards comprise more than three-quarters of the city’s anticipated federal awards in FY 2026, excluding COVID funds. The Department of Education (DOE) receives more federal funding than any single city agency. DOE’s federal grants are expected to total $2.1 billion in FY 2026, 7% of the agency’s total planned FY 2026 spending excluding fringe benefits and centralized costs. As a share of spending, federal spending is more highly concentrated in the city’s housing and social services agencies. In FY 2026, federal funds are assumed to comprise more than half of the planned spending at the Department of Housing Preservation and Development, and nearly 40% of the spending at the Administration for Children’s Services. The city’s largest federal award is Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, which funds public assistance grants and other social services, and comprises nearly a quarter of the city’s non-pandemic federal funding in both FY 2025 and FY 2026. That money supported an average of 146,189 family assistance recipients in FY 2024, and nearly 44% of the planned costs for family shelter operations at the Department of Homeless Services in FY 2025. https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/04/dinapoli-releases-analysis-federal-funding-new-york-city

ALBANY, NEW YORK – Akeel Abdul Jamiel, age 45, formerly of South Glens Falls, New York, was charged on Friday with illegally voting in the 2020 election.  United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III; Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement. According to an information filed in federal court, Jamiel, an Iraqi who was not a United Citizen, voted in the November 2020 election in Saratoga County, New York.  The charge in the information is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “As alleged, Jamiel’s voting in the 2020 election was a callous and illegal act.  We will continue to investigate and prosecute illegal schemes aimed at corrupting the election process.”   FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Election security is and will continue to be one of the FBI’s highest national security priorities. Americans have a right to expect free and fair elections and the FBI is committed to working with our partners to seek justice for anyone trying to interfere with the democratic process.” HSI Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan stated: “This defendant’s alleged crimes are an insult to the democratic process and demonstrate his blatant disregard for the sanctity of American constitutional rights. I commend HSI Albany and our law-enforcement partners for their success in this unified effort.” The charge filed against Jamiel carries a maximum term of 1 year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. The U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) assisted in this investigation. Updated April 28, 2025 SOURCES; https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/iraqi-man-charged-illegal-voting-alien

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the 14th Annual Oneida County Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up saw 465 youth volunteers service the homes of 102 seniors.  "The success of our Annual Intergenerational Spring and Fall Clean-Ups is a direct result of our dedicated, committed, and hardworking youth volunteers and their mentors,” Picente said. “Our Oneida County senior citizens, who can no longer physically do the work or financially afford to have the work done for them, have benefitted tremendously from this initiative and its volunteers efforts. They continue to remind us that there is good in our youth, in our world and that Oneida County is a special place to live.” The 14th Annual Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up was a collaboration between the Oneida County Youth Bureau, the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care and local colleges, school districts and youth organizations. Volunteers raked and collected leaves, swept porches, sidewalks and driveways and brought light refuse to the curb at the homes of seniors throughout the county. Volunteers participated from Utica University football and field hockey, as well as the Organization of Justice Studies and Alpha Phi Delta national fraternity; Mohawk Valley Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society; New Hartford High School varsity and junior varsity baseball and varsity softball; T.R. Proctor High School Key Club and Young Scholars Program; Clinton High School varsity baseball and National Junior Honor Society; Notre Dame High School varsity baseball and National Junior ROTC; Whitesboro Middle School and Marcy Elementary School PTO; Camden High School athletics; Vernon-Verona-Sherrill Interact Club; Oriskany High School Track & Field and Key Club; Rome Free Academy; CNY Football Club; St. Elizabeth College of Nursing; YWCA AMEND Together; ICAN SNUG and Broadway Utica Youth Ambassadors. “With the outpouring of support given by our youth and the supportive number of youth volunteers represented, these kids see the big picture,” Youth Bureau Director Kevin Green said. "Compassion for those in need, caring enough to do the work and bringing joy to others are three characteristics these 465 youth volunteers brought to Oneida Counties senior citizen population.” The 2025 Spring Clean-up took place on April 12 and 13. During the 2024 Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up this past October, 470 youth volunteers serviced the homes of 105 senior citizens throughout the county. The 2025 Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up is scheduled for October 18 and 19 and the 2026 Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up is scheduled for April 18 and 19. Any Oneida County colleges, school districts and youth organizations interested in volunteering should contact the Oneida County Youth Bureau at 315-798-5027.

County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the county Office of Traffic Safety has implemented a new school zone speed monitoring system that has been tracking violators who will soon be notified of their actions. "This initiative is about protecting our children and ensuring the safety of everyone in our school zones," Picente said. "The data we’ve gathered makes it clear that speeding in these areas is a serious issue, and we are taking proactive steps to address it. These warnings serve as a wake-up call—slow down and obey the speed limits before a tragedy occurs." Two speed monitoring units were dispatched in school zones in New Hartford and Whitesboro last month, and since then, have captured drivers greatly exceeding the speed limits in those areas. In just the time period of March 20-24, 2025, 54 vehicles were recorded traveling 51-65 mph in a 25-mph school zone in Whitesboro and 517 were recorded going 36-45 mph in a 20-mph school zone in New Hartford. The speed monitors will be utilized in other schools zones throughout the county in the future. Effective immediately, hundreds of speed notices will be mailed out to the individuals whom the vehicles in violation are registered to. Each notice will have the date, time and location of the offense, the vehicle’s license plate number and the posted speed limit and the speed limit the offender was recorded traveling at. The correspondence serves as a warning, not a traffic citation. Information from the warning will be shared with local law enforcement and convictions of the traffic infractions could result in a significant fine.