Estimated Overdose Deaths Declined in New York According to New Federal Data Over $335 Million in Opioid Settlement Funds Made Available for New Strategies to Address Substance Use Disorder and Overdoses Distributed Nearly 700,000 Life-Saving Naloxone Kits and Nearly 20 Million Test Strips New York Lights State Landmarks in Recognition of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. Governor Kathy Hochul today provided an update on New York’s ongoing efforts to address the opioid and overdose epidemic that is impacting states across the nation. Estimated overdose deaths in areas of New York State outside New York City declined 9 percent in the 12-month period ending March 2024 compared to the prior 12-month period, according to new provisional data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Estimated overdose deaths in New York City declined 3.1 percent in the same period. Following the release of this data, Governor Hochul highlighted that New York is continuing to take aggressive action to reduce overdose deaths statewide – including new, innovative approaches to deliver supportive services to New Yorkers struggling with addiction. “I’m committed to keeping New Yorkers safe and turning the tide against an overdose epidemic that has taken far too many neighbors, friends and family members in New York and across the nation,” said Governor Hochul. “We'll continue taking aggressive action and deploying new resources that will save lives and ensure New Yorkers struggling with addiction get the services and support they need.” Office of Addiction Services and Supports Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “The updated provisional CDC data continue to trend in the right direction, meaning fewer New Yorkers are dying of overdoses. However, we remain cautiously optimistic and focused on saving lives through our ongoing efforts to bring innovative prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery services to all those who need it. Free online naloxone kits and drug testing strips, enhanced access to medication treatment, and mobile medication units are just a few ways we continue to use data, equity, and harm reduction strategies toward this effort.” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The provisional data released by the CDC is evidence that the harm reduction and prevention measures being taken at all levels in New York State are making an impact and saving lives. We still have more work to do. Opioid use disorder is a public health crisis that requires a collaborative approach and in partnership with community organizations, public health professionals and our state agency and federal partners, we will continue to leverage every tool available to reach more New Yorkers who are impacted by the overdose epidemic.” According to the newly released provisional data , the CDC estimated 3,253 drug overdose deaths in areas of New York State outside New York City during the 12-month period from April 2023 to March 2024. This represents a 9 percent decrease compared to the estimated 3,575 overdose deaths in those parts of the state from April 2022 to March 2023. Also according to that data, the CDC estimated 3,123 drug overdose deaths in New York City during the 12-month period from April 2023 to March 2024. This represents a 3.1 percent decrease compared to the estimated 3,223 overdose deaths in New York City from April 2022 to March 2023. Since this is provisional data, it is subject to further revisions by federal officials in the coming months based on final reporting. More Than $335 Million in Opioid Settlement Funds Made Available As part of continued efforts to address this crisis, Governor Hochul highlighted New York’s nation-leading work to distribute opioid settlement funds to local communities. Settlement funds are used to invest in addiction ​prevention, recovery services, harm reduction and other resources that can play a role in reducing overdose deaths. As of August 1, New York has made more than $335 million in settlement funds available since January 2023 – making this funding available faster than any other state in the nation. NYS OASAS is the lead agency responsible for oversight of New York’s Opioid Settlement Fund. To guide distribution of this funding, New York established the Opioid Settlement Fund Advisory Board, which provides recommendations on the best use of this funding to support the various services across New York State. Delivering New Resources to Support Individuals Impacted by Addiction and Decrease Overdoses Swift distribution of settlement funding and new State funding have enabled New York to advance a wide array of community investments and new initiatives that will help save more lives and address the needs of New Yorkers struggling with addiction. Governor Hochul highlighted several examples of these efforts: Providing more than $100 million to municipalities across the state to support efforts to address the opioid and overdose crisis on a local level. Funding new programs to increase access to medication for addiction treatment and other healthcare services, including comprehensive integrated outpatient programs, new opioid treatment programs, and increased access to low-threshold buprenorphine. Providing a total of more than $12 million to Recovery Community and Outreach Centers across the state, which help struggling New Yorkers access more services, support and information about addiction and recovery. Significantly increasing community-level outreach and engagement efforts that connect at-risk individuals with the harm reduction and treatment services they need. Expanding the addiction services workforce by recruiting and training more New Yorkers for jobs that enable them to help fellow New Yorkers struggling with addiction, including providing funding to medical schools and other colleges to support a new scholarship program. Establishing Mobile Medication Units which provide medication for addiction treatment and other services and resources, and are designed to bring services directly to underserved communities and address barriers that keep some people from seeking treatment. Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), which provide an array of coordinated services to address substance use and/or mental health, including crisis intervention, screening and assessments, and treatment planning. Distributed Nearly 700,000 Life-Saving Naloxone Kits Statewide Along with deploying new services and resources to support New Yorkers struggling with addiction, the State has taken nation-leading action to distribute naloxone kits that can save lives during an overdose emergency. Through combined efforts by NYS DOH, NYS OASAS and other partners, New York has distributed nearly 700,000 naloxone kits statewide in the last 18 months – including many through a first-in-the-nation online ordering portal. This portal also provides individuals and organizations the opportunity to order fentanyl and xylazine test strips. To date, more than 11.3 million fentanyl test strips and 8.3 million xylazine test strips have been distributed through this effort. These supplies can be ordered through the OASAS website . Additionally, New York recently began providing free access to naloxone kits to domestic violence shelters and service providers across the state. New Yorkers struggling with an addiction, or whose loved ones are struggling, can find help and hope by calling the state’s toll-free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369). Recognizing National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day To recognize National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, the following New York State landmarks will be lit purple today: One World Trade Center Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Kosciuszko Bridge The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building State Education Building Alfred E. Smith State Office Building Empire State Plaza State Fairgrounds - Main Gate & Expo Center Niagara Falls The "Franklin D. Roosevelt" Mid-Hudson Bridge Albany International Airport Gateway MTA LIRR - East End Gateway at Penn Station Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal Moynihan Train Hall Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park State Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, “Governor Hochul’s announcement highlights significant progress in addressing New York’s opioid crisis, including a decrease in overdose deaths and new investments in crucial resources. These developments support the ongoing efforts of the Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorder Committee. While promising, continued action is essential. We look forward to more initiatives from the Governor and are committed to advancing additional legislation. Our goal is to ensure every New Yorker receives the support they need.” Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein said, “The recent national and New York State drug overdose death decreases demonstrate that harm reduction strategies work. With NYSDOH support, Erie County continues to support Narcan trainings, fentanyl test strip use, and promotes never using alone, accessing peer navigator assistance and implementing low threshold buprenorphine.” Albany Medical College Professor of Emergency Medicine Michael Dailey MD, said, “This good news in the face of ongoing tragedy allows us a moment to reflect on the interventions that we are making across the State, from the community of drug using people working to prevent overdose, to those in public safety and emergency medicine working to treat people who are in crisis. Drug use and overdose is a highly personal public health problem. As we treat people who overdose, we must continue to follow the evidence to provide compassionate care, minimize severe withdrawal symptoms, offer opportunities for intervention, and assure that we are focused on the best solutions for each individual.” CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy Professor Pedro Mateu-Gelabert Ph.D., said, “The recent data indicating a decline in overdose deaths from April 2023 to March 2024 in New York State could signal the continuation of a positive trend that began in 2023. This comes after five years of troubling increases in overdose fatalities, suggesting that the tide might finally be turning. While this shift may be partly due to public health initiatives like expanded treatment access and naloxone distribution, it's crucial to remain cautious. Ongoing monitoring will be essential to see if this downward trend persists and to understand the factors contributing to this potential reversal. "Contact the Governor's Office ------------------------------------------------------------ Contact us by phone: Albany: (518) 474-8418 New York City: (212) 681-4640 Contact us by email: Press.Office@exec.ny.gov

Includes $30 Million in Grants from the Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Inventory Lead Service Lines in Drinking Water Systems in 30 Communities Approval of Financial Assistance Authorizes Municipal Access to the Capital Needed for Projects that Reduce Risks to Public Health and the Environment Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) Board of Directors approved $265 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement projects across the state. The Board's approval authorizes municipal access to low-cost financing and grants to get shovels in the ground for critical water and sewer infrastructure projects. Of the project funding approved today, $30 million in grants from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) will help 30 communities across the state to inventory lead service lines in drinking water systems, a vital first step for starting replacement projects and protecting public health. “Improving our water infrastructure is essential for building safe and healthy New York communities,” Governor Hochul said. “This financial assistance makes all the difference in being able to provide safe drinking water to New Yorkers, protect our natural resources, and ensure the projects are successful and affordable.” The Board approved grants and financings to local governments from BIL, the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), and grants already announced pursuant to the Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) program. Leveraging BIL funding with the State’s investments will continue to empower local communities to make critical system improvements to safeguard public health, protect the environment, bolster communities’ climate readiness, and promote economic development. BIL funding for water and sewer infrastructure is administered by EFC through the State Revolving Funds. Environmental Facilities Corporation President & CEO Maureen A. Coleman said , “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s sustained commitment to making generational investments and bolstering efforts to replace lead service lines and address pollution, communities statewide are taking steps to ensure access to safe drinking water and modernize aging wastewater systems. Today’s announcement of $265 million for water infrastructure projects provides critical funding for municipalities making upgrades to address lead service lines and other threats to clean water and public health.” New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “The State’s more than $265 million investment announced today will provide local municipalities with the resources they need to design and implement essential water infrastructure improvements statewide. I applaud Governor Hochul’s sustained, generational investments to improve New York State’s water infrastructure and EFC’s ongoing assistance to small and disadvantaged communities to help address historic inequities, further safeguard public health, benefit the environment, and strengthen local economies.” Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Access to clean, safe drinking water is fundamental to protecting public health. Governor Hochul’s investment in reducing lead service lines in community drinking water systems and upgrading aging wastewater systems is a huge step toward reducing risks to public health today and in the future.” Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The continued funding commitments for water infrastructure underscore the Governor’s priority for building healthy communities by modernizing water systems that are critical to environmentally sustainable communities. The financial assistance of $265 million approved by the Environmental Facilities Corporation will help localities, in need of grants and low-cost financing, put shovels in the ground to replace aging water infrastructure across the state so New Yorkers can have access to clean drinking water for years to come.” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia said, “Many communities across New York have struggled with the daunting expense of fixing aging sewage and drinking water infrastructure, including finding and replacing lead service lines. EPA and New York are making historic investments to change that. With support from federal and state funding and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New York communities are now better equipped to upgrade sewer systems, improve drinking water plants and replace lead pipes to protect our kids and ensure public health and better quality of life.” Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said, “There is nothing more important than keeping New York’s drinking water safe for our children and families. Now, thanks to our Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, a major $30 million is flowing to support water infrastructure projects across the state. This project will ensure that people across the state have access to safe drinking water—while helping improve public health, protect the environment and bolster economic development. I led the charge in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to deliver the funding to get the lead out, because no amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for our children. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to clean water.” Clean Water Projects: Town of Bath - $2,580,413 grant and $1,124,789 interest-free financing from BIL; a $1,249,790 WIIA grant from the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act; and $3,798,175 market-rate financing from the CWSRF for the planning, design, and construction of the Lake Salubria collection sewer extension in the town. Town of Bellmont - $376,750 interest-free financing from the CWSRF and a $92,250 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of equipment at the Brainardsville Sewer District Wastewater Treatment Facility. Village of Brownville - $1,724,500 interest-free financing from the CWSRF and a $275,500 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of effluent disinfection and other improvements at the village's wastewater treatment plant. Buffalo Sewer Authority - $3,333,000 grant and $3,147,000 interest-free financing from BIL for the planning, design, and construction of sewer system real time control sites. Village of Catskill - $7,569,500 grant and $3,853,187 interest-free financing from BIL, and a $3,716,313 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of collection system and wastewater treatment plant upgrades to eliminate combined sewer overflows in the village. Town of De Kalb - $1,305,500 grant from BIL; $1,250,000 grant, $1,144,500 interest-free and $1,000,000 market-rate financing from the CWSRF; and a $1,250,000 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant and collection system improvements. Village of Herkimer - $3,275,200 grant and $2,676,200 interest-free financing from BIL; a $4,997,750 WIIA grant; and a $4,997,750 CWSRF grant for the planning, design, and construction of collection system and wastewater treatment plant upgrades. This project will also be funded with a $4,033,100 Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant. Town of Martinsburg - $1,366,200 interest-free and $378,400 market-rate financing from the CWSRF; a $148,814 WIIA grant; and a $106,586 WIIA grant from the Bond Act for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant and collection system improvements. Town of Moriah - $4,286,498 interest-free and $2,500,000 market-rate financing from the CWSRF, and a $3,577,469 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of collection system upgrades. Town of Newfane - $3,401,325 interest-free and $3,401,325 market-rate financing from the CWSRF, and a $1,849,350 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant process upgrades. Rensselaer County - $2,240,680 interest-free and $2,240,679 market-rate financing from the CWSRF, and a $307,250 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant improvements. Saratoga County - $15,195,476 interest-free and $15,195,476 market-rate financing from the CWSRF, and a $5,087,500 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant ammonia removal upgrades. Village of Sodus - $287,953 interest-free and $591,330 market-rate financing from the CWSRF, and a $67,717 WIIA grant from the Bond Act for the planning, design, and construction of disinfection improvements at the wastewater treatment plant. City of Syracuse - $3,240,500 grant and $3,240,500 interest-free financing from BIL for the planning, design, and construction of sanitary sewer improvements to reduce inflow and infiltration to the sanitary sewer system. Town of Thompson - $6,939,000 grant and $5,337,679 interest-free financing from BIL; $416,800 market-rate financing from the CWSRF; and a $3,363,899 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of upgrades to the Emerald Green Wastewater Treatment Plant. Town of Webb - $706,023 interest-free and $1,706,023 market-rate financing from the CWSRF, and a $470,683 WIIA grant for the planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment plant upgrades. Westchester County - $8,120,525 interest-free and $8,120,524 market-rate financing from the CWSRF for the planning, design, and construction of the Peekskill Wastewater Treatment Plant digester, aeration, and heating system. Drinking Water Projects: Town of Alexander - $136,000 WIIA grant for the creation of Water District No. 6, including installation of approximately 94,400 linear feet of water mains, hydrants, valves, and appurtenances. Village of Delanson - $236,129 interest-free and $472,258 market-rate financing from the DWSRF, and a $1,060,455 WIIA grant for the installation of new Granular Activated Carbon filters at the water treatment plant for the removal of disinfection byproducts precursors. Dix Hills Water District - $3,000,000 WIIA grant for the installation of an Advanced Oxidation Process treatment system for 1,4-dioxane removal and the replacement of Granular Activated Carbon media in the existing vessels. City of Glen Cove - $3,000,000 WIIA grant for the design and construction of a new treatment process at the existing water treatment facility at the Duck Pond Road site to remove dichlorofluoromethane (Freon-22) from Wells 30 and 31. Village of Hamilton - $2,244,000 WIIA grant for the construction of a new drinking water well source and well house. Town of Louisville - $1,409,471 market-rate financing from the DWSRF and a $1,213,215 WIIA grant for the replacement of all five existing aged filters with a new ultrafiltration treatment system, including associated controls and SCADA upgrades at the water treatment plant. Village of Marathon - $465,000 WIIA grant for the installation of two water main crossings of the Tioughnioga River and associated appurtenances. City of Oneonta - $2,000,000 grant and $3,072,625 interest-free financing from BIL, and a $3,000,000 WIIA grant for upgrades to the water treatment plant and storage and distribution system. Town of Scio - $255,000 grant and $765,000 interest-free financing from BIL; $100,000 interest-free and $200,000 market-rate financing from the DWSRF, and a $1,530,000 WIIA grant for the installation of a new water storage tank to replace the existing tank on Davis Hill Road, and replacement of approximately 5,000 linear feet of aged water main, including appurtenant hydrants and valves. Village of South Blooming Grove - $1,759,115 interest-free and $3,518,228 market-rate financing from the DWSRF, and a $4,702,657 WIIA grant for the construction of a new pump station at the Mangin Road storage, treatment, and pumping site, construction of a 400,000-gallon elevated steel water storage tank to replace the existing Fort Worth storage tanks, construction of two wells and associated appurtenances, and replacement of approximately one mile of existing water main and appurtenances. Town of Vestal - $991,610 WIIA grant for the installation of approximately 3,900 linear feet of new water main, including associated hydrants, valves, and restoration on Old Vestal and Bunn Hill Roads. Westbury Water District - $8,976,000 WIIA grant for the design and construction of a new treatment process at the existing water treatment facility to remove nitrate, volatile organic compounds, 1,4-dioxane and perfluorooctanoic acid from Well Nos. 10 and 14. Village of Woodridge - $5,000,000 grant and $3,800,000 interest-free financing from BIL for the replacement of water main, construction of a new water storage tank, replacement of the existing slow sand filters with an ultrafiltration system, rehabilitation of the existing sludge settling lagoon, and a new SCADA system. City of Yonkers - $2,593,128 WIIA grant for the replacement of approximately 300 linear feet of the Wendover Transmission Main where it crosses below the Saw Mill River Parkway. The Board also approved approximately $30 million for lead service line inventory projects for the following municipalities: City of Albany Town of Amenia City of Auburn Village of Bath Village of Catskill Village of Delhi Village of Herkimer City of Hudson Village of Ilion Village of Liberty City of Little Falls City of Lockport Village of Malone Village of New Paltz City of Newburgh City of Niagara Falls City of Ogdensburg City of Oneonta Village of Penn Yan City of Port Jervis Village of Potsdam City of Poughkeepsie City of Schenectady City of Syracuse City of Troy Upper Mohawk Valley Water Authority Village of Walton Village of Warwick City of Watervliet Village of Westfield Refinancing Completed Projects Will Achieve Long-Term Debt Service Savings The Board also took action to help ensure continued, long-term affordability of existing projects. The Board approved long-term, interest-free financing totaling over $20 million for projects undertaken by the Town of Rockland, the Village of Tupper Lake, and the Water Authority of Great Neck North. Short-term financing provides capital for design and construction of projects. Once project construction is completed, the short-term financing is typically refinanced to long-term financing for up to 30 years, saving municipalities significant interest expenses versus financing on their own. Based on current market conditions, these long-term financings are projected to save local ratepayers an estimated $26.6 million in interest payments over the life of the financings. New York's Commitment to Water Quality New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure, including more than $2.2 billion in financial assistance from EFC for local water infrastructure projects in State Fiscal Year 2024 alone. With $500 million allocated for clean water infrastructure in the FY24 Enacted Budget announced by Governor Hochul, New York will have invested a total of $5.5 billion in water infrastructure between 2017 and this year. Governor Hochul’s State of the State initiatives are helping to ensure ongoing coordination with local governments and ensure communities can leverage these investments. The Governor increased WIIA grants for wastewater projects from 25 to 50 percent of net eligible project costs for small, disadvantaged communities. The Governor also expanded EFC’s Community Assistance Teams to help small, rural and disadvantaged communities leverage this funding and address their clean water infrastructure needs. Any community that needs help with its water infrastructure is encouraged to contact EFC .

August is Child Support Awareness Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the vital work of child support professionals. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly behind the scenes, helping families access the resources and support they need. The mission of the Oneida County Child Support Unit is to assist custodial parents and guardians to obtain child support by locating non-custodial parents, establishing paternity/parentage, obtaining financial and medical support orders, collecting support obligations and enforcing child support orders. There are 9,974 cases in the Child Support Unit, and in 2023, $20,456,323 was collected and distributed to parents and guardians to support children in Oneida County. The lights on the Oneida County Office Building in Utica have be purple and green in honor of Child Support Awareness Month and the Child Support Unit will be distributing information and answering questions outside of the building from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on August 28th.

The Sci-Fi Horror Fest is off to an exhilarating start with an eclectic array of booths offering a wide range of merchandise. Attendees can explore everything from classic pop culture items like pop figures and comics to exquisite handcrafted artwork, spine-tingling collectibles, mesmerizing crystals, captivating books, and even the presence of an indie game developer. It's apparent that this year's horror fest promises to be an extraordinary experience, and I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to discover even more remarkable treasures throughout the weekend! Some jokes to hopefully make you laugh: Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts. Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field, what do you call a fake noodle? An impasta. I hope these bring some laughter to your day!

The Herkimer County Fair is underway, promising the community another week of chills and good times. Opening ceremonies Tuesday really set the stage for a great kickoff for the annual event. This year's theme, "Saddle Up and Come on Down to the Fair", hints at a lively, yet unforgettable experience. Visitors to the fair can look forward to a huge variety of attractions, such as adrenalin-packed rides, engaging games, and many other entertaining performances. If visitors get hungry, there are a host of appetizing foods available with the classic fare, so it is the right time to indulge in your culinary guilty pleasures. In regards to their favorite part of the event, however, the fair-goers are really spoilt for choice. Others go on about the thrills of the rides, while others just can't seem to get enough of the mouth-watering fair cuisine. Animal lovers are also enchanted with the opportunity to engage and view the animals on display. If one has not had the pleasure to enjoy all the fair offered, there is no need to worry since Herkimer County Fair will run all the way through to Sunday, August 18th. This provides an excellent opportunity for everyone to get involved and create fantastic memories. 2024 Fair Dates: Aug 13th to 18th https://www.herkimercountyfair.org/home 2024 Fair Theme:“Saddle up and Come on down to the Fair”

On August 11, 2024, State Police arrested Michael A. Perron , age 40, from Blossvale, NY, on the following charges: Robbery 3rd degree (class “D” felony) Criminal Mischief 3rd degree (class “E” felony) Grand Larceny 4th degree (class “E” felony) Menacing 3rd degree (class “B” misdemeanor) Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle 3rd degree (class “A” misdemeanor) (2) counts - Endangering the Welfare of a Child (class “A” misdemeanor) Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th degree (class “A” misdemeanor) Harassment 2nd degree (violation) Peron was arrested following an investigation that began on August 9, 2024, after he allegedly menaced a female victim, forcibly took her cell phone damaging it, and pushed the victim while two infant children was on her lap. The next morning on August 10, Perron took the victims vehicle without permission and left the residence. The victim was able to contact State Police who responded to the residence and interviewed her. During the investigation, the victim turned over an illegal rifle belonging to Perron , that was not used during the previous domestic dispute. State Police located Perron on August 11, 2024, at his residence with an arrest warrant. Perron was processed at SP Lee and held at the Oneida County Jail pending arraignment on Monday, August 12, 2024, at CAP Court. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/domestic-incident-leads-arrest-city-rome

On August 9, 2024, State Police received a phone call from the Herkimer County Humane Society reporting a possible animal cruelty case. A preliminary investigation revealed a dog was tied up by a leash to the door of the Herkimer County Humane Society and left out in the rain on August 8, 2024, at about 11:00 p.m. Following an investigation, Troopers arrested Pedro A. Aquino, age 39, from West Winfield, NY, for NYS Agricultural & Markets Law § 353-a Animal Cruelty, a class “A” misdemeanor. Aquino was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the town of German Flatts Court on September 3, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. According to a Facebook post by Herkimer County Humane Society - "Pedro Alexis “Lex” Aquino age 39, from West Winfield, NY has been arrested for the crime of Animal Cruelty in the case of the dog, Betty/Bailey, a 1 1/2-year-old Bulldog/Pit mixed breed dog who had given birth 11 weeks earlier, then left tied to the shelter door in the night and passed away shortly after. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/west-winfield-man-arrested-animal-cruelty-charges Sources: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftroopers.ny.gov%2Fnews%2Fwest-winfield-man-arrested-animal-cruelty-charges&h=AT2lO_puDv-GTw1R2DTcTq8OTZnFqVp-R7oas5Jr4whNBWEEcTTzvQHu5gtvIEDQN4KwkaczWi0m-gLT15d5PoElivEsufexMdxPlPNyOpbhgPmMJaP3DVL6zw4G9scEnebg&s=1

On August 14, 2024, at approximately 6:07 a.m., State Police responded to a report of a three vehicle crash involving a tractor trailer rollover and two passenger vehicles southbound on I-87 of the Mario Cuomo Bridge, mpm 14.9 in the town of Orangetown.  The tractor trailer was carrying gravel at the time of the accident, which fell out and spread across several lanes of traffic and had to be removed. There were minor injuries reported. State Police were assisted by Clarkstown EMS & Fire, Nanuet, Nyack and Tarrytown EMS, NYST Maintenance, Central Nyack and Tarrytown FD. All lanes are open. The investigation is ongoing. Source: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigating-accident-involving-tractor-trailer-mario-cuomo-bridge

On August 13, 2024, State Police arrested Christopher DiBartolo, age 47, for Robbery 1st degree (class “B” felony), Criminal Mischief 4th degree (class “A” misdemeanor), and Official Misconduct (class “A” misdemeanor). DiBartolo, a New York State Trooper, was arrested following an investigation into an incident that occurred outside a residence in the village of Liberty in 2023. The male complainant, known to DiBartolo, came forward after he was involved in an incident with DiBartolo while he was on duty. The complainant reported that DiBartolo took personal property from him, causing damage. DiBartolo was arraigned in the Town of Liberty Court and released on his own recognizance until the next court date scheduled for August 27, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. DiBartolo has been suspended without pay from his position as a State Trooper. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-trooper-relieved-duty-following-arrest-robbery-criminal-mischief-and-official-misconduct

On August 13, 2024, State Police, Cicero Police Department, and Onondaga County Sheriffs Office received complaints in the area of Mcnamara Drive in the town of Clay of vehicle larcenies. State Police are currently investigating five or six teenagers wearing dark clothing and masks, who broke into three vehicles and drove off with them. The vehicles have been recovered by the State Police. State Police Investigators are asking for the public’s assistance with any information regarding the teens or individuals involved. Please contact 315-366-6000 and reference case numbers NY2400533535, NY2400534122, NY2400533435. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-requesting-public-assistance-1 Contact Troop D Public Information Officer: Trooper Jennifer Jiron Troop D Commander : Major Robert J. Simpson Contact us by phone: Troop D PIO315-366-6077 Contact us by email: jennifer.jiron@troopers.ny.gov Map Directions: 261 Genesee Street Oneida NY, 13421

The Oneida County Board of Elections (BOE) is utilizing National Poll Worker Recruitment Day to highlight its needs for the 2024 General Election.   In partnership with the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), the BOE recognizes August 1, 2024, as the fourth annual National Poll Worker Recruitment Day. Launched in 2020, this initiative seeks to address the ongoing poll worker shortage, promote civic participation, and ensure the integrity and security of the elections in 2024 and beyond. “Election workers are critical to ensuring accessible and accurate elections,” said BOE Commissioners Sarah F. Bormann and Nichole D. Shortell. “We are excited to recognize and participate in National Poll Worker Recruitment Day to help bring awareness to the nationwide poll worker shortage ahead of the election in November and to help inspire civic engagement and volunteerism to encourage people to sign up to serve their community. We are grateful for the positive response we have received since the beginning of the year when we began sending monthly poll worker recruitment postcards and hope more will join their ranks in the leadup to November.” Poll worker responsibilities include activities such as setting up polling places, greeting and processing voters, and issuing ballots. Poll workers also assist voters in understanding the voting process by demonstrating the use of voting equipment and explaining voting procedures. The BOE oversees election staff and poll workers, including providing training before Election Day. In Oneida County, poll workers are paid $50 to attend an annual training session. Election Day pay starts at $250 for those who work the polls the entire day (approximately 5:15 a.m. until 9:45 p.m.), with opportunities for poll workers to earn up to $300 as they continue their service to the county. Shorter shifts with prorated pay are available for those that are unable to work the entire Election Day shift. Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr. also emphasized the importance of civic engagement saying that, “Poll workers are the backbone of our democratic process. Their dedication and commitment to our communities ensure that every vote is counted accurately and fairly. I encourage all eligible residents of Oneida County to consider volunteering as a poll worker and contributing to the integrity of our elections.” In-person voting on Election Day is how the vast majority of Oneida County’s almost 140,000 voters choose to participate in elections. Ensuring sufficient poll workers are available on Election Day is crucial for providing voters with the assistance they need and providing a smooth voting experience for all. “Poll workers are essential to our voting process, playing a pivotal role in the success of our elections. Volunteering as a poll worker is an impactful way for Americans to serve their country and communities,” said EAC Chairman Ben Hovland. “The EAC aims to support state and local election officials in their recruitment efforts, address poll worker shortages, and engage new generations with National Poll Worker Recruitment Day.” National Poll Worker Recruitment Day exemplifies civic engagement in elections, aiming to encourage potential poll workers to help America vote. Poll workers uphold our democratic system by enabling citizens to cast a free and confidential ballot to choose their representation. For more information about National Poll Worker Recruitment Day and how to become an election worker, please visit ocgovboe.net or HelpAmericaVote.gov . Sources: https://ocgov.net/news/oneida-county-board-of-elections-highlights-needs-on-national-poll-worker-recruitment-day/ https://ocgov.net/news/oneida-county-board-of-elections-highlights-needs-on-national-poll-worker-recruitment-day/

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Bernabe Lopez, age 59, of Utica, New York, was sentenced today to serve 88 months in federal prison for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Carla Freedman; Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division and Thomas Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), New York Field Office.  Lopez was also ordered to serve a 4-year term of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, pay a $100 special assessment and a $4,950.00 money judgment, representing proceeds of his drug trafficking offense.  From May 2020 through October 2021, Lopez acquired quantities of fentanyl from co-conspirators in the Rodriguez Drug Trafficking Organization (Rodriguez DTO), which he then re-distributed to others in the Utica, New York area.  Lopez also sold a cutting agent to members of the conspiracy for $10 a gram, knowing that the co-conspirators were adulterating fentanyl with the cutting agent to increase volume for sales.  Lopez was one of 9 defendants charged in the Rodriguez DTO. To date, all of the other defendants pled guilty and were sentenced as follows: Ivan Rodriguez, Sr. , the head of the Rodriguez DTO, pled guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl and one count of money laundering and was sentenced to 121 months incarceration. Eric Ares pled guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 120 months incarceration.  Ivan Rodriguez, Jr. pled guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 120 months incarceration. Jose Morales pled guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl, and distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and was sentenced to 120 months incarceration. Harry Rodriguez pled guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 84 months incarceration. Edgar Tejada pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and was sentenced to 72 months incarceration. Angel Calderon Ortiz pled guilty to conspiring distribute fentanyl and one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 60 months incarceration. Jose Aponte pled guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 40 months incarceration. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . This case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, New York State Police, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Oneida County District Attorney’s Office, Utica Police Department, Syracuse Police Department, Rome Police Department,  Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, New York Army National Guard Counter Drug Program, Yorkville Police Department, Whitesboro Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Thomson. Updated August 14, 2024 Sources: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/utica-man-sentenced-his-role-large-fentanyl-conspiracy-0