Press Release On February 23, 2025, at approximately 12:50 a.m., State Police arrested Michael J. Gallagher, a 23-year-old resident of Watervliet, NY, for driving while intoxicated. The incident occurred on Saint Johns Road in the town of Mooers, where officers responded to a report of a personal injury accident. An investigation revealed that Gallagher was driving a blue 2016 Kia when he lost control of the vehicle, exited the roadway, and entered a ditch. Champlain EMS was present at the scene, providing medical assistance to both Gallagher and his passenger, Alyssa T. Meachum, a 21-year-old from Chazy, NY. Gallagher declined medical attention, while Meachum was transported to CVPH for treatment of a possible hand injury. During the interview, Gallagher exhibited signs of impairment. Troopers administered Standard Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs), which he did not pass. He was subsequently arrested and taken to the State Police station in Champlain for processing, where he registered a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .14%. Gallagher was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Mooers Court in March.

State Police in Lowville are urgently requesting the public’s help in identifying a female suspect involved in a fraudulent activity case that resulted in significant financial loss. According to investigators, surveillance footage from the Northern Federal Credit Union in Croghan, NY, captured the suspect as she impersonated another individual and withdrew $3,200 from the victim’s bank account without authorization. The suspect used a driver's license that was fraudulently obtained in the victim’s name to complete the transaction, leaving the victim unaware of the theft until it was too late. The incident occurred recently, and State Police are hoping that members of the community may recognize the woman seen in the footage. “We are urging anyone who may have seen something suspicious or who may recognize the individual in the photo to come forward,” said a spokesperson for the State Police. “Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be crucial in helping us track down this suspect and hold her accountable for her actions.” The suspect’s actions have raised concerns about security at financial institutions and the importance of safeguarding personal information. Authorities are actively working on the case and following all leads to bring the suspect to justice. Anyone with information on the identity of the woman in the surveillance footage is encouraged to contact State Police at (315) 366-6000. When calling, please reference case number #NY2500081387. Your assistance could be vital in solving this identity theft case and ensuring the suspect is caught. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-seek-publics-help-identifying-fraud-suspect

Shocking New Details Unveiled: Nine Indicted in Brutal Prison Homicide Case Oneida County, NY  – A grand jury has unsealed indictments against nine individuals in connection with the gruesome homicide  of Robert Brooks , a 43-year-old incarcerated at Marcy Correctional Facility . The charges, which range from murder and manslaughter to gang assault and evidence tampering , mark a significant development in an investigation that has spanned months. On February 24, 2025 , Oneida County Court Judge Robert Bauer  unsealed the indictment following an extensive probe by the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) in Troop D . Authorities were first notified of Brooks' death on December 10, 2024 , after he was discovered unresponsive. The subsequent investigation uncovered disturbing details  surrounding his death, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects. Who Was Charged? Among those indicted are: 🔴 Nicholas J. Kieffer (33, Whitesboro, NY) Murder in the Second Degree  – Class A-1 Felony Manslaughter in the First Degree  – Class B Felony Gang Assault in the Second Degree  – Class C Felony Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree  – Class E Felony 🔴 Nicholas J. Anzalone (44, Lee Center, NY) Murder in the Second Degree  – Class A-1 Felony Manslaughter in the First Degree  – Class B Felony Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree  – Class E Felony 🔴 David J. Kingsley II (44, Adams, NY) Murder in the Second Degree  – Class A-1 Felony Manslaughter in the First Degree  – Class B Felony 🔴 Anthony R. Farina (49, Oneida, NY) Murder in the Second Degree  – Class A-1 Felony Manslaughter in the First Degree  – Class B Felony 🔴 Christopher Walrath (36, Little Falls, NY) Murder in the Second Degree  – Class A-1 Felony Manslaughter in the First Degree  – Class B Felony 🔴 Mathew J. Galliher (43, Clinton, NY) Murder in the Second Degree  – Class A-1 Felony Manslaughter in the First Degree  – Class B Felony Gang Assault in the Second Degree  – Class C Felony 🔴 Michael Mashaw (47, Boonville, NY) Manslaughter in the Second Degree  – Class C Felony 🔴 Michael D. Fisher (54, Rome, NY) Manslaughter in the Second Degree  – Class C Felony 🔴 David K. Walters (36, Rome, NY) Manslaughter in the Second Degree  – Class C Felony 🔴 Nicholas J. Gentile (36, New Hartford, NY) Tampering with Physical Evidence  – Class E Felony Authorities Speak Out New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James  condemned the brutal nature of the crime, saying: "Today's arrests are a testament to the relentless dedication and professionalism of our investigators. The level of violence inflicted upon Robert Brooks was egregious, and our members have worked tirelessly to ensure those responsible are held accountable. We hope this arrest brings some measure of justice to the family and loved ones of Mr. Brooks." The New York State Police  extended their appreciation to the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office and Medical Examiner’s Office , whose assistance played a critical role  in the case. A Case That Rocked the System The investigation into Brooks’ homicide has been one of the most complex in recent history , requiring authorities to: ✅ Follow over 400 leads ✅ Analyze hundreds of pieces of evidence ✅ Execute 16 search warrants In addition to the New York State Police’s Special Investigations Unit , forensic teams—including the Troop D Computer Crimes Unit, Forensic Investigation Unit, and Forensic Video Multimedia Services Unit —were brought in to piece together exactly what happened . What Comes Next? While these arrests mark a major breakthrough , officials emphasize that this remains an active and ongoing prosecution . The case has shaken the New York correctional system , raising serious concerns about prison safety, internal violence, and accountability . The accused are expected to face trial in the coming months , and prosecutors will reveal more details about the evidence, potential motives, and the shocking circumstances behind Brooks' death . Stay tuned for continued updates as this case unfolds. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/indictments-unsealed-homicide-investigation-robert-brooks

VICTORY, N.Y. – New York State Police are investigating a case of arson and vandalism  after two buses used for transporting incarcerated individuals under the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS)  were damaged in what appears to be a deliberate attack. Authorities say the buses, owned by a company contracted by DOCCS, were parked in a storage lot on State Route 370 in the town of Victory, Cayuga County when the incident occurred. One of the buses sustained significant fire damage to its rear section , while the second was spray-painted with the chilling message: “Can you hear us now.” The motive behind the attack remains unclear , and investigators are working to determine whether the act was a targeted protest, an act of retaliation, or vandalism with another intent.  Officials have not disclosed whether there were any surveillance cameras in the area or if any suspects have been identified. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to step forward. If you have any details that could assist in the investigation, contact NYS Police Troop E at 585-398-4100. As police work to uncover the motive behind the vandalism and fire, questions remain about who is responsible and what message they intend to send. Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.

ONEIDA, N.Y. — A long-awaited transformation in downtown Oneida just took a giant leap forward. The Oneida Group, LLC, the developers behind the highly anticipated Hotel Oneida Project , have cleared a key hurdle, securing approval for their revised site plan—officially putting the project on the fast track to reality. This approval, a crucial step in the multi-million-dollar revitalization effort , ensures the project meets parking requirements, setting the stage for Oneida’s biggest downtown redevelopment in years . Dubbed "The Oneida,"  the project is more than just a hotel—it's a game-changer  for the city. Featuring modern residential accommodations  and a brand-new Shaughnessy’s Irish Pub , the development promises to bring fresh energy to the heart of Oneida, drawing in tourists, new businesses, and economic opportunities . "This milestone underscores our commitment to making Oneida a more vibrant place to live, work, and visit," said City Manager Kyle Lovell . Funded in part by the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) , the project is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and enhance the downtown experience . With this latest approval, developers can now move full speed ahead on construction plans, bringing Oneida’s biggest downtown upgrade  one step closer to reality. Stay tuned—more updates on construction timelines and grand opening details are coming soon! Sources: https://www.facebook.com/oneidacityclerk/posts/pfbid08ix7PNbGDrMnZQTgkifTneVQ2HBAy3xaxVvVS7a5zg4ksDQHmsJTRupb1YrKS61Gl?rdid=rk29EOMmZlQjXUYn#

In a heart-pounding showdown that had hockey fans on the edge of their seats, Canada stunned the USA with a dramatic 3-2 overtime victory to secure the Four Nations Face-Off Championship. The game wasn't just a win for Canada—it was a broadcast sensation, smashing viewership records across North America. In what has now become the second most-watched hockey broadcast in Sportsnet history, the rematch between these bitter rivals captivated audiences with intense action, wild momentum shifts, and unforgettable performances. Every twist and turn of the game was expertly captured by Sportsnet’s high-energy coverage, keeping fans glued to their screens for a game that will go down in history. According to NHL Public Relations, a staggering 16.1 million viewers across North America tuned in via Sportsnet, TVA Sports, ESPN, ESPN+, and Disney+, making this one of the most-watched events in recent memory.

Central New York, February 23, 2025 – As record-breaking snowfall blankets Central New York, many homeowners are facing an unexpected challenge: insurance companies denying claims by citing the “act of God” clause. With the tremendous amount of snow causing significant property damage, residents are now asking, “What do we do when our insurance won’t cover the losses?” Insurance policies often include an “act of God” provision that absolves companies from liability when damage results from natural, unpredictable events. In the wake of this winter’s unprecedented storm, several insurers have invoked this clause, leaving policyholders struggling to repair roofs, clear driveways, and restore homes without financial assistance. Experts advise that homeowners first review the details of their insurance policy. “It’s crucial to understand what your policy covers,” says an independent insurance consultant. “Some policies might include exceptions even for natural events, especially if poor maintenance or pre-existing conditions contributed to the damage.” Homeowners are encouraged to gather all documentation, including photographs of damage and receipts for any repairs, as well as detailed weather reports from the period of the storm. If a claim is denied, the next step is to appeal the decision. Policyholders can request a detailed explanation from their insurer and consider hiring a public adjuster who can provide an independent assessment of the damage. “An independent review can often reveal discrepancies in the insurer’s evaluation,” notes a local legal expert. “Consulting with a lawyer who specializes in insurance claims can also help determine if the denial was justified under the terms of your policy.” Local consumer protection agencies and state insurance commissioners are also valuable resources. They can offer guidance on how to file a formal complaint and may help mediate disputes between homeowners and insurance companies. As Central New York gets through this harsh winter, affected residents are reminded to keep detailed records and seek professional advice promptly. With a proactive approach, homeowners can better navigate the complexities of insurance claims. Even when faced with the unpredictable power of nature..

On February 21, 2025, State Police in Brunswick arrested Phillip W. Parson, 52, and Nathan A. Stone, 49, both of Bennington, VT, for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the fourth degree and Conspiracy in the fifth degree. At approximately 12:14 a.m., Troopers conducted a traffic stop on a pickup truck in the area of Hoosick Road for a Vehicle and Traffic Law violation. The driver was identified as Stone, with Parson as the passenger. During the investigation, Troopers discovered a dirt bike in the truck’s bed that had been reported stolen from Bennington, VT, on February 16, 2025. The dirt bike was seized. Stone and Parson were arrested and taken to SP Brunswick for processing. They were both issued appearance tickets for Brunswick Town Court on March 5, 2025, and released.

On February 22, 2025, State Police arrested a 16-year-old male from Peru, NY, following a violent altercation at Champlain Centre Mall in Plattsburgh. The teen faces charges of third-degree assault, second-degree menacing, and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. At approximately 3:54 p.m., police responded to a report of an assault on Smithfield Boulevard. The investigation revealed that the 16-year-old and the victim became involved in a physical altercation, during which the teen struck the victim in the face multiple times, causing injuries to the victim’s teeth. During the confrontation, the juvenile also brandished a pocket knife and made threatening remarks. After the incident, the 16-year-old fled the scene. The victim received medical treatment for facial injuries at CVPH and was later released. The 16-year-old was arrested and processed at SP Plattsburgh but was released on family court appearance tickets.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) must step up its oversight and enforcement of dam safety regulations to prevent potential failures that could lead to catastrophic damage and loss of life, according to a recent audit from New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. While dam failures are rare in New York, DiNapoli emphasized the importance of maintaining proactive measures to keep it that way. “We want to ensure dam owners are complying with safety standards, including up-to-date engineering assessments, emergency plans, and proof of proper maintenance,” DiNapoli said. DEC regulates over 6,500 dams in the state, ranging from privately owned to municipal structures, and is responsible for ensuring that these dams are safely operated and maintained. The audit, which examined 843 dams posing the highest risk between 2020 and 2024, uncovered significant lapses in safety compliance. Some dam owners failed to submit emergency plans, engineering assessments, or proof that the dams were being maintained safely. These documents are vital for identifying potential risks and ensuring the appropriate emergency response if necessary. The audit found several key areas where DEC’s oversight was lacking: 158 dams (19%) did not have emergency plans on file, including 30% of Hazard Class B dams. 33% of dams did not have an engineering assessment on file, and 15% of them hadn’t updated assessments in the last 10 years. 14% of dams were missing annual certifications, which confirm proper maintenance. In addition to these findings, DEC has been slow to assign condition ratings to many dams, leaving 26% of high-risk dams unassessed. Without these ratings, it’s more difficult for DEC to enforce actions that could prevent a potential disaster. DiNapoli’s audit calls for several actions to improve dam safety, including: Updating DEC’s database to include dam condition ratings. Increasing the number of timely inspections of high-risk dams. Establishing strict timelines for inspection report completion. Implementing enforcement procedures for non-compliant dam owners. DEC has generally agreed with the audit’s findings and is already working on implementing the recommendations. As the threat of dam failures continues to loom, these improvements in oversight and enforcement could make a critical difference in protecting lives, property, and communities across New York State. https://www.osc.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/02/dinapoli-better-dec-oversight-dams-recommended-prevent-failures-and-safeguard-communities

Saturday was an incredibly tough day for the brave men and women of the Barneveld Fire Department. The unrelenting weight of snow proved too much, causing their fire station to collapse. Yet, amidst the devastation, there was a silver lining—miraculously, no one was injured, and the fire apparatus was saved. The Barneveld Fire Department has always been more than just a fire station—it’s a cornerstone of the community and a home base for the Sheriff’s Office field operations serving the northern part of the county. The long-standing bond between the Sheriff’s Office and Barneveld’s firefighters runs deep, and in times like these, that bond is stronger than ever. Our thoughts are with them, and our full support is behind them as they navigate this challenging time. Despite the hardship, the resilience and camaraderie of the fire service shone brightly Saturday evening at the Trenton Joint Fire District 2025 Installation Banquet  at Harts Hill Inn. It was a night of recognition, honor, and unwavering support. Sheriff Maciol had the privilege of administering the Oath of Office to the newly elected officers of the Holland Patent Hose Company  and the Barneveld Fire Department,  reinforcing their commitment to serving and protecting their community. One of the evening’s most moving moments was the presentation of Honorary Sheriff’s Credentials  to Michael “Benny” Bennison in recognition of his 50 years  of dedicated service with the Holland Patent Hose Company. A half-century of selfless commitment to public safety is no small feat, and Benny’s legacy serves as an inspiration to all. To every firefighter, first responder, and volunteer— thank you.  Your dedication, courage, and brotherhood embody the very best of what it means to serve. Through challenges big and small, this community stands together. The road to recovery for the Barneveld Fire Department may not be easy, but with this kind of support, they will undoubtedly emerge stronger than ever. Sources: https://sheriff.oneidacountyny.gov/news/67bb262c14d921979d0094b6/

America's bakeries and coffee shops are grappling with unprecedented challenges as the costs of eggs and coffee reach record highs in early 2025. These essential ingredients have seen significant price surges, intensifying financial pressures on small businesses nationwide. Egg Prices Reach Unprecedented Levels In February 2025, the average price for a dozen Grade A large eggs soared to $7.95 , a stark contrast to the $1.50  per dozen recorded five years prior. citeturn0search0 This dramatic increase is primarily attributed to a severe avian influenza outbreak, which has led to the culling of approximately 15% of the nation's laying hens. citeturn0news24 The resulting supply shortage has forced egg prices to unprecedented heights, with some regions experiencing even higher costs due to local regulations and supply chain disruptions. For bakeries, where eggs are a cornerstone ingredient, this surge has significantly impacted production costs. Many establishments are faced with the difficult decision of either raising prices or reformulating recipes to maintain profitability. Coffee Prices Climb Amid Global Challenges The coffee industry is similarly affected, with prices reaching levels not seen in decades. As of February 21, 2025, coffee prices hit $3.9952 per pound , influenced by factors such as adverse weather conditions in key coffee-producing regions and geopolitical tensions affecting trade. citeturn0search9 These challenges have disrupted supply chains, leading to increased costs for coffee shops and consumers alike. Small coffee shop owners are particularly vulnerable, as they often lack the purchasing power to negotiate better prices. The rising costs have led some to adjust their pricing strategies, while others explore alternative suppliers or menu adjustments to mitigate the financial strain. Industry Experts Weigh In Economic analysts caution that these price increases may persist throughout 2025. The combination of ongoing supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, and climate-related challenges suggests that relief may not be imminent for small businesses reliant on these commodities. In response, some businesses are adopting innovative approaches, such as sourcing locally produced ingredients, investing in sustainable practices, or diversifying their product offerings to reduce dependency on volatile markets. These strategies aim to enhance resilience in the face of economic uncertainties. As the situation evolves, consumers may need to adjust to higher prices for their favorite baked goods and coffee beverages. The resilience and adaptability of small businesses will be crucial in navigating these challenging times and continuing to serve their communities. Sources: Egg price tracker: How much a dozen eggs costs in America Los productores de huevos en EE UU se disparan en Bolsa por la crisis de la gripe aviar Coffee Prices - 45 Year Historical Chart