Coffee drinkers are shocked to find that the store on Genesee Street in Oneida Square in Utica, NY, has permanently closed for now. Our local news team members speculate this might be related to a vast amount of issues, from tight local competition, poor location in a high crime area, as well as staffing issues that are not just affecting this store but many local businesses. We asked some locals, and this is one of the anonymous neutral statements we got that left an impact on our team: "We loved our Dunkin' Donuts here in Utica, however, the feeling of tension and local issues made many people avoid it and choose locations that give a safer vibe and better value. Many homeless people tend to linger around there from time to time, I can't tell you how many times I have had people ask me for money while waiting in the drive-thru or trying to walk in. Numerous times, I have not just read online but see in person drug actives right out from on the streets" Researching the claims, we looked up neighborhoodscout.com crime stats, which revealed disturbing info placing the location near an epicenter of the most Dangerous Utica Area Neighborhoods. This info is solely based on their data, but reviewing and going over local press releases does correlate to their data. This problem is one of the many issues this Dunkin' Donuts may be encountering.

Today, we pay tribute to Trooper Covel C. Pierce , who dedicated 30 years of service to the New York State Police  before passing away on March 10, 2011 , due to brain cancer linked to his heroic efforts at Ground Zero . Following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks , Trooper Pierce was among the brave first responders deployed to the World Trade Center  for search and recovery operations. His unwavering commitment to duty ultimately cost him his health, but his sacrifice will never be forgotten. Trooper Pierce joined the New York State Police  on January 24, 1974 , serving in Troops K and G  before retiring from SP Saratoga . He is survived by his wife and two children , who carry on his legacy of service and bravery. Today, we honor Trooper Covel C. Pierce  for his selflessness and sacrifice. His name and heroism will forever be remembered. https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=955536753436706&set=a.153499116973811

Tariffs Could Have Wide-Ranging Implications for Consumers and Businesses March 5, 2025 The New York City Metropolitan Area accounted for more than $103 billion, or 69%, of the value of goods imported to New York state. In 2023, Europe provided the largest share of goods by value to the metropolitan area among all regions, according to a report released today  by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. The report, which examines imports into the New York part of the metro area, aims to help New Yorkers understand the potential effects of federal trade policy choices on their businesses and households. “New York City is one of the country’s largest importers and exporters of goods, and its consumers and businesses could be negatively affected by new tariffs on goods traded with some of our biggest trading partners,” DiNapoli said. “Tariffs will likely raise costs for producers and consumers and may create higher operating costs for local businesses. The impact of these changes on the local and national economy are difficult to gauge and will take time to fully understand.” New York state imported $157.2 billion in goods in 2023, according to the International Trade Administration (ITA), making up about 5% of the national total. However, ITA does not provide detailed data on imports at the metropolitan area level. An analysis based on the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics’ commodity flow data estimates the New York portion of the New York City Metropolitan Area – which includes New York City, Long Island, and certain Hudson Valley counties – imported over $103 billion in goods from foreign countries in 2023. The largest source of imports into the metropolitan area, and the state, by region, is Europe. Europe is estimated to make up about 31% of the value of all goods imported into the New York City area in 2023. Eastern Asia is the nation’s largest partner at over 25% of total import value ($747.2 billion). Canada was also estimated to provide more than 16% of the total import value to the metropolitan area within New York state. The largest share of imported goods to the New York portion of the metropolitan area is for miscellaneous manufacturing products (such as medical equipment), which made up an estimated 38.4% of the total goods value imported to the area in 2023. Textiles/leather, electronics and machinery are the next three largest categories by estimated import value to flow into the area. In some cases, countries already have retaliated or suggested they will respond in the future in answer to tariffs by the United States, which would impact certain industries more than others. Healthcare, retail, and manufacturing firms may have to pay higher prices or see markets for their goods potentially impacted by tariffs. Restaurants and bars could also see higher prices for products, adding costs for businesses that already operate on relatively thin margins, according to DiNapoli’s report. The New York City-Newark-Jersey City Metropolitan Area, which also includes parts of northern New Jersey, exported over $106 billion in goods in 2023 according to ITA, second only to the Houston Metropolitan Area and its large oil and gas exports. The metropolitan area’s largest export trading partners are Canada and Switzerland, each of which make up more than 12% of total exports from the area. Hong Kong, Mexico and the United Kingdom round out the top five countries that receive goods exported from the New York City Metropolitan Area. The largest share of exported goods is for miscellaneous manufacturing products at more than a quarter of the total in 2023. Primary metals, chemicals and computer and electronic products all exceeded $10 billion each in exports from the metropolitan area in 2023. Companies in these industries reliant on exports may see shrinking markets for goods or need to alter strategies to direct production towards domestic uses. DiNapoli’s office will continue to monitor actions by the federal government and their impact on local prices, productivity and profitability indicators.

March 10th is National Super Mario Day , a day dedicated to celebrating everyone’s favorite mustachioed plumber! Whether you’ve been stomping Goombas since the ’80s or just picked up a controller, here are some fun facts  to honor Mario’s legacy: 1️⃣ Mario Wasn’t Always a Plumber  – Mario made his debut in Donkey Kong  (1981) as a carpenter named Jumpman  before switching careers to plumbing in Super Mario Bros.  (1985). 2️⃣ The Name "Mario" Has Real-Life Origins  – He was named after Mario Segale , a landlord who rented warehouse space to Nintendo of America in the early 1980s. 3️⃣ Super Mario Bros. It was almost a Shooting Game . Early development ideas for Super Mario Bros.  included Mario using a beam gun  instead of jumping on enemies! 4️⃣ Mario Has Held Over 12 Different Jobs  – Aside from plumbing, Mario has been a doctor, racer, golfer, soccer player, kart driver, and even an Olympic athlete! 5️⃣ The Coin Sound is Iconic  – The sound of collecting a coin in Super Mario Bros.  is one of the most recognizable video game sound effects in history. 6️⃣ . Super Mario 64 Revolutionized 3D Gaming  – Released in 1996, Super Mario 64  was one of the first successful open-world 3D platformers, setting the standard for future games. 7️⃣ Mario Has Appeared in Over 200 Games  – From platformers to party games, Mario has been a part of gaming history for over 40 years! How are you celebrating Mario Day ? Playing a classic game, speedrunning levels, or just wearing your best red hat? Let us know! 🎩✨ #SuperMarioDay #MarioMarch10

On March 7, 2025, at approximately 3 p.m., a tragic motor vehicle accident involving two school buses from the Holland Patent School District occurred on Rickmeyer Road in the Town of Floyd, resulting in a fatality. Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol reported that a school bus, driven by 57-year-old Michael J. Page from Stittville, was traveling southbound on Rickmeyer Road, carrying three students, when it appears to have crossed into the path of a second bus traveling north. That bus, operated by 58-year-old Jean C. Marsden of Holland Patent, was transporting two students at the time. Marsden was tragically pronounced dead at the scene following the head-on collision. The two students aboard Marsden’s bus were transported to Wynn Hospital by AmCare Ambulance with injuries sustained in the crash. Michael Page was also taken to Wynn Hospital, where he was treated for a foot injury. The three students from Page's bus were evaluated at the scene and later released to their parents, with no life-threatening injuries reported. Due to their ages, the names of the students have not been released. The investigation is ongoing, but authorities believe that harsh weather conditions, including whiteout conditions from blowing snow, may have played a role in the crash. The scene was secured with the assistance of the New York State Police, Floyd and Stittville Fire Departments, AmCare Ambulance, the NYS Department of Transportation, and the Holland Patent School District. Clinton Collision removed both buses from the scene. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident. More details will be provided as they become available.

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol, a Utica man was arrested on March 6th, 2025, following a larceny investigation. On March 6th, 2025, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Division responded to 6075 Judd Road in the Town of Whitestown regarding a stolen motor vehicle. The Oneida County Road Patrol Division learned the individual responsible for stealing the motor vehicle was Robert Pickering who had been released from the Oneida County Correctional Facility hours prior to the incident. On this same date, around 11:53 PM Pickering had been stopped in the City of Utica by an Officer with the Utica Police Department. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office was then advised Pickering had been located; therefore, Deputies responded to Utica to take custody of Pickering. As a result, the Oneida County Criminal Investigative Unit was contacted and the case was turned over by Deputies. Pickering was charged with one count of Grand Larceny in the 3rd Degree, a class D Felony. Pickering was processed at the Kurt B. Wymann Law Enforcement Building and was turned over to members of the Oneida County Correctional Facility. Pickering is scheduled to appear in Whitetown Town Court at a later date and time.

Town of Lake Pleasant, NY  – A frigid night on Mason Lake  turned into a tense search-and-rescue mission when a 70-year-old snowmobiler from New Jersey  became separated from his riding group on Feb. 28 . A Snowy Search Begins At 8:20 p.m. , Hamilton County Dispatch  alerted Forest Rangers Hamm and O’Connell  to the missing rider, who had last been seen experiencing mechanical issues  on the lake. By the time he got his snowmobile moving again, he had lost his group and was alone in the wilderness . Despite the Rangers’ initial search, darkness, snow, and heavy winds  made it nearly impossible to track the missing man. Concerned for his safety in the freezing temperatures, Rangers requested backup, bringing in Rangers Miller and Scott  to expand the search into Indian Lake . A Race Against Time With New York State Police and the Indian Lake Fire Department  joining the effort, rescuers scoured the area deep into the night. At 12:30 a.m. , a faint set of tracks finally led Rangers Miller and Scott  to the missing snowmobiler on the east shore of the lake . The rider was cold but safe . Rangers quickly replaced his snowmobile’s drive belt  and assisted him to Lake Shore Road , where Indian Lake EMS evaluated his condition . Prepared for the Unexpected This rescue highlights the importance of sticking with a group  while riding in remote areas and ensuring snowmobiles are in good working order  before heading out. Thanks to the dedication and teamwork  of New York’s Forest Rangers and emergency responders , this night ended safely for the lost snowmobiler. 🚨 Stay safe this winter!  Always carry a charged phone, emergency supplies, and a GPS device  when exploring the backcountry.

A routine training day turned into a high-stakes rescue mission on Feb. 26  when New York State Police (NYSP) Aviation  received an urgent call for assistance. A small plane carrying three passengers  had crashed on Mt. Equinox  in Bennington County, Vermont, prompting a swift response from NYSP pilots and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers . From Training to Action At 9:20 a.m. , Forest Rangers Gullen and Thompson  were preparing for hoist training alongside NYSP Pilots Anderton and Sperber  and Trooper Aurigema  at Albany International Airport . But when the distress call came in, the team quickly shifted gears, piloting a rescue helicopter  straight to the crash site. By 12:15 p.m. , the chopper arrived over the rugged terrain of Mt. Equinox , where the plane had gone down. Trooper Aurigema skillfully lowered the Forest Rangers to the crash site , where they found the three survivors in need of urgent medical attention. Precision Rescue in the Wilderness With time of the essence, Rangers secured and packaged  the injured passengers while Trooper Aurigema hoisted them one by one  into the hovering helicopter. Once safely aboard, the patients were transported for medical care— two by ambulance  and the third by MedFlight  for more advanced treatment. A Team Effort in the Face of Danger The mission showcased the expertise, coordination, and bravery  of the NYSP Aviation Unit and DEC Forest Rangers , whose life-saving skills  and quick response made all the difference  in this dangerous situation. 📹 See the dramatic rescue in action!  Watch the video featuring the responders on DEC’s Facebook page . This successful rescue is a testament to the dedication of New York’s emergency response teams, who stand ready to protect and save lives—even in the most treacherous conditions.

Jade A. Pittsley, 34, of Binghamton, NY , has been sentenced to 8 years in federal prison  after pleading guilty to escaping federal custody  and possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute . The Escape & Arrest While serving time for a prior meth-related conviction , Pittsley was placed under supervision at a halfway house  in November 2023 . Instead of returning as required, she went on the run. Days later, law enforcement tracked her down , discovering methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia  in her purse. The Sentence 8 years in federal prison 4 years of supervised release  following her sentence Law Enforcement Involvement The U.S. Marshals Service  and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)  led the effort to locate Pittsley, with support from the Broome County Sheriff's Office . This case underscores law enforcement’s commitment to holding repeat drug offenders accountable , especially those who attempt to evade federal custody . Sources: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/binghamton-woman-sentenced-8-years-prison-escaping-federal-custody-and-possessing

David Daniyan , a 60-year-old man from Brooklyn, NY , has pled guilty to his role in a massive bank fraud and money laundering conspiracy  that caused over $1.7 million  in losses. Daniyan, who also used aliases such as Bamikole Laniyan  and David Enfield , admitted his involvement in a complex operation led by Oluwaseun Adekoya , a 39-year-old Nigerian national from Cliffside Park, NJ . The Scheme Daniyan, along with Adekoya, used stolen personal identifying information  from victims across the United States. The conspirators recruited others to impersonate these victims, using fake driver’s licenses  to fraudulently access cash, checks, loans, and even merchandise  from high-end retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue . The operation involved money laundering tactics, including purchasing additional fake IDs and funneling stolen funds into accounts controlled by the group. The crime spree spanned the Northern District of New York  and various states across the country. Daniyan’s actions, carried out in coordination with Adekoya and a network of accomplices, amassed over $1.7 million  in fraudulent proceeds. The Defendants In addition to Daniyan, several others have been charged, including Adekoya , who faces multiple counts related to bank fraud, money laundering, and aggravated identity theft . Other defendants such as Kani Bassie , Davon Hunter , and Jermon Brooks  are also facing charges for their roles in the scheme. The Investigation The investigation began after Daniyan’s arrest in May 2022  by Cohoes Police  for attempting to commit fraud in the Capital Region . The operation led by the FBI-Albany  and U.S. Attorneys resulted in the indictment of multiple co-conspirators , many of whom have already pled guilty. The Sentence Daniyan is set to be sentenced on July 10, 2025 . He faces a maximum of 30 years in prison  for bank fraud, along with additional sentences for money laundering and aggravated identity theft. Daniyan will also be ordered to pay restitution of over $1.7 million  and forfeit nearly $100,000  in fraud proceeds. Following his prison term, Daniyan will face immigration removal proceedings . This case highlights the continued efforts by federal authorities  to combat sophisticated financial crimes, with law enforcement agencies across the country contributing to the investigation.

On March 5, 2025, at approximately 1:47 a.m., troopers from the New York State Police Monroe responded to a two-car motor vehicle collision on State Route 17 westbound near Exit 126 in the Village of Chester. The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2009 Nissan, driven by Sydnie M. Haines , age 25, of Blackwood, NJ, was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of State Route 17. The Nissan collided head-on with a 2014 Honda Odyssey, resulting in the death of the driver of the Honda, identified Mordichy Zafir , age 54, of Kiamesha Lake, NY. A 17-year-old male passenger of the Honda, also from Kiamesha Lake, was seriously injured and was transported to Garnet Medical Center in Middletown for treatment. Haines and Zafir both succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene.  This investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is urged to contact the State Police Monroe Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 845-344-5300.   On March 5, 2025, a head-on collision occurred on Route 17 westbound near Exit 126 in the town of Chester, Orange County. The crash involved two vehicles, and preliminary investigation reveals the incident was caused by a wrong-way driver. Tragically, two individuals were pronounced deceased at the scene, while one other person sustained serious injuries and was transported to the hospital. The westbound lanes is open. Troop F BCI is investigating the accident. Anyone who may have witnessed the accident is asked to call SP Monroe BCI at 845-344-5300.

Schenectady Man Arrested on Multiple Warrants for Forged Checks and Grand Larceny Jason A. Cruz , a 43-year-old Schenectady resident , was arrested on February 24, 2025 , on multiple warrants  related to fraudulent activities  and grand larceny charges . The arrest stems from a series of forged check incidents  that spanned several locations in New York State. The Fraudulent Scheme The investigation began with a complaint from an Erie County resident  on August 8, 2022 , reporting suspicious activity involving their bank account. It was determined that Cruz allegedly attempted to cash a forged check  at a financial institution in Halfmoon , NY, on the same day. Later that day, Cruz also reportedly cashed another forged check  at a Troy, NY  bank, resulting in a theft of over $1,000 . An additional fraudulent activity complaint  was filed on August 23, 2022 , by a Greene County resident . Investigators uncovered that Cruz had cashed two fraudulent checks  on August 5, 2022 , at financial institutions in Mechanicville  and Clifton Park , NY, stealing more than $7,000 . The Arrest After a lengthy investigation, multiple arrest warrants  were issued for Cruz. He was taken into custody with the assistance of the Schenectady Police Department . Cruz was processed at SP Clifton Park  and SP Brunswick  before being arraigned in Clifton Park Town Court  and Troy City Court . Despite the serious charges, Cruz was released on his own recognizance  from both courts. Cruz now faces four counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument , three counts of Grand Larceny in the 4th degree , and Attempted Grand Larceny in the 4th degree . This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by State Police  and local law enforcement to combat financial crimes  and protect victims from fraud. Stay tuned for further updates on this case as it unfolds.