On December 22, 2023, the New York State Police from the Poughkeepsie barracks made a significant arrest that involved multiple charges against an individual named Eric Huang, who is 33 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY. The charges he faces are Driving While Intoxicated and Unclassified misdemeanor, as well as Criminal Possession of Cannabis in the 1st degree, which is a class D felony. The arrest took place following a traffic stop conducted by troopers on the Taconic State Parkway in the town of Pleasant Valley. The reason for the stop was violations of the vehicle and traffic law committed by Huang, who was operating a 2008 Acura MDX at the time. After further investigation, it was established that Huang was not only driving while impaired but was also found to be illegally possessing an astounding amount of over 36 pounds of cannabis. Huang was promptly taken into custody and was subsequently issued an appearance ticket, which requires him to appear in the town of Pleasant Valley Court on January 2, 2024, to face the charges brought against him.

Last week, the New York State Police Troop D Violent Gangs and Narcotics Unit, together with Uniform Troopers, launched their latest campaign under the name "Operation Vaporizer" within Oneida County. The primary objective of this operation was to crack down on the illegal sales of flavored nicotine vapes to minors, due to the numerous complaints received from school districts and concerned parents. Multiple law enforcement agencies collaborated diligently to address this pressing issue. The New York State Police received valuable assistance from esteemed organizations such as the Town of Kirkland Police Department, Boonville Police Department, and Camden Police Department.It is imperative for all smoke shops operating within the state of New York to bear in mind that the legal age for purchasing tobacco products or nicotine vapes is 21 years of age. This serves as a reminder to all smoke shop owners to strictly enforce this legal requirement.As a result of the collective efforts of this initiative, several locations were subjected to thorough inspections, revealing their adherence to compliance with the established laws. These law-abiding establishments include Camden Gourmet Deli and Smoke Shop situated at 54 Main St in Camden, Z1 Smoke Shop located at 13410 State Route 12 in Boonville, and Royal Plus Shop situated at 8601 Turin Rd in Rome (T/Lee). However, it is regrettable that certain locations were found to be in violation of the laws governing the sale of nicotine vapes to individuals under the age of 21. One such establishment is NC Smoke Shop at 13187 State Route 12 in Boonville, which has been identified as a repeat offender. As a consequence of this illegal activity, Leah J. Irish, an 18-year-old resident of Boonville, NY, has been charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a class "A" misdemeanor. Additionally, One Stop Deli at 14 College St in Clinton was also found to be non-compliant with the relevant laws. Consequently, Mohamed K. Al Almeri, a 31-year-old resident of Clinton, NY, has been charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a class "A" misdemeanor. Furthermore, Iron Lungs located at 8215 Turin Rd in Rome was discovered to be in violation of the aforementioned laws. As a result, Devin J. Riggleman, a 26-year-old resident of Rome, NY, has been charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a class "A" misdemeanor. For additional information or inquiries, please contact Troop D Public Information Officer, Trooper Jack L. Keller. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/three-arrested-operation-vaporizer-campaign-oneida-county

Heather L. Billingsley, a 53-year-old resident of Cairo, NY, found herself in legal trouble on January 1, 2024 when she was arrested by State Police. The charges against her include two counts of Grand Larceny in the fourth degree and Petit Larceny. The events leading up to her arrest occurred on December 31, 2023, when Troopers received a report of a stolen vehicle from a home in Esperance, NY.Upon further investigation, it was revealed that Billingsley was acquainted with the victim and had unlawfully entered their vehicle, making off with it without their consent. However, this was not the extent of her actions. It was also discovered that Billingsley had taken several firearms and an undisclosed amount of cash from the victim's residence, all without their knowledge or permission.After fleeing the scene in the stolen vehicle, it was later found unoccupied in Colonie, NY at approximately 2:09 p.m. Unfortunately, despite recovering the stolen car, the authorities were unable to locate the firearms and cash that Billingsley had taken. Following her escape, Billingsley was eventually apprehended in Troy, NY and was subsequently transported to the SP Cobleskill for processing. From there, she was conveyed to the Schoharie County Correctional facility where she is currently being held until her arraignment. For any additional information regarding this case, interested parties are encouraged to contact Trooper Stephanie O'Neil, the Public Information Officer for Troop G. Trooper O'Neil will provide further details and answer any inquiries that may arise. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-cairo-woman-stealing-vehicle-and-guns

It is with deep sadness that the Syracuse Police Department announces the passing of two retired K9 officers, K9 Nik and K9 Jack. The news was shared today through the Syracuse Police Department's official Facebook page. K9 Nik, who was purchased and assigned to Sergeant Szakacs of the Syracuse Police Department's K9 Unit in the spring of 2013, passed away on December 28th, 2023. K9 Nik underwent intensive training at the DCJS Patrol/Tracking school and Detector school to fulfill his duty as a Police K9. Throughout his career, K9 Nik, alongside Sergeant Szakacs, diligently patrolled the streets of Syracuse, ensuring the safety of its residents and fighting against criminal activities. Accomplishing numerous tasks, K9 Nik conducted 140 building searches, 14 tracks, 19 criminal apprehensions, 31 instances of Officer protection, and 173 explosive detection sweeps. After serving the City of Syracuse for approximately seven years, K9 Nik retired with his handler in 2019.Similarly, K9 Jack, procured and assigned to Officer Quick of the Syracuse Police Department's K9 Unit in the spring of 2015, also passed away on December 28th, 2023. Officer Quick and K9 Jack completed the DCJS Patrol/Tracking school and Detector school in the same year, becoming an efficient team on the streets of Syracuse. With K9 Jack being one of the largest dogs in the unit, he predominantly worked alongside the Syracuse PD's SWAT team. This formidable duo executed high-risk search warrants, often being the first to enter, ensuring the safety of the SWAT Operators. Throughout his career, K9 Jack carried out 122 building searches, 6 tracks, 19 criminal apprehensions, 30 instances of Officer protection, and 216 explosive detection sweeps. After serving for many years, K9 Jack was retired in 2023, allowing Officer Quick to take on a new partner, K9 Neo. It is heartbreaking to note that K9 Jack passed away on his 10th birthday.Both K9 Nik and K9 Jack played crucial roles within the K9 Unit and worked alongside exceptional handlers and trainers. Their absence will be deeply felt by the K9 Unit, the Syracuse Police Department, and the entire City of Syracuse. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these brave and dedicated four-legged officers for their years of service in safeguarding their handlers, fellow officers, and the City of Syracuse. You will be greatly missed.

The Owner Illegally Operated the Limo and Attempted to Use it to Transport Paying Customers, New Yorkers are Encouraged to Verify Company and Driver Information Safety Tips Before Renting and Riding in Altered Vehicles The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has recently announced the arrest of Daniel Garhartt, a resident of Averill Park, on charges related to operating a stretched limousine in a for-hire capacity under the guise of personal use and attempting to transport unsuspecting passengers. Garhartt was apprehended on Friday afternoon outside Albany International Airport following an investigation conducted by DMV's Division of Field Investigation (DFI), in collaboration with the NYS Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Albany County Sheriff's Office. Garhartt, who operates Classic Transportation Service, is now facing two Class E felony charges and a misdemeanor charge for offering a false instrument for filing in the first degree, falsifying business records in the first degree, and providing a false written statement. Additionally, he has been ticketed for driving an uninspected vehicle. The allegations against him involve submitting paperwork for a 2005 Cadillac, falsely claiming that it was not being used for hire and therefore did not require appropriate insurance. Furthermore, Garhartt advertised the vehicle for transportation services without obtaining the necessary insurance, registration, or safety inspection. In response to the arrest, DMV promptly suspended Garhartt's driver's license and impounded his owned-and-operated vehicle pending a safety hearing. The limousine was removed from the airport under tow. The collaboration and swift action among these agencies have effectively eliminated this illicit operator from New York's roadways, thereby enhancing safety for all motorists. This incident coincides with the ongoing "Don't Take a Back Seat to Safety" social media campaign initiated by DMV and DOT. The primary aim of this campaign is to remind individuals planning to hire limousine services, be it for weddings, proms, girls' nights out, winery trips, or any other occasion, to exercise due diligence before finalizing any arrangements. It is important to note that the charges against Garhartt are allegations, and he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. Furthermore, anyone seeking to rent a limousine is strongly encouraged to visit the Safe Limo New York website, where valuable tips can be found prior to chartering a modified limousine. The website also provides safety inspection performance data for carriers operating under NYS DOT operating authority. Full press release here: https://dmv.ny.gov/press-release/press-release-01-02-2024

Colliers named lead consultant Public Meeting Set The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) has announced the beginning of the scoping process for phase three of the removal of the Niagara Scenic Parkway, between Findlay Drive in the City of Niagara Falls and Center Street in the Village of Lewiston. The scoping process, which will be led by Bergmann (which has joined Colliers Engineering & Design), will consider broad alternatives for creating a sensitively configured transportation network along the Niagara Gorge, and will include traffic studies, environmental review, development of design alternatives and public engagement. The entire scoping and preliminary design process is expected to wrap up by August 2025. A public meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at in the Castellani Building at DeVeaux Woods State Park, 3160 DeVeaux Woods Drive, Niagara Falls, NY 14305. Project displays and staff will be available beginning at 5:30 p.m. with a presentation taking place at 6:30 p.m. While New York State Parks will be the lead agency, the City of Niagara Falls, the Town and Village of Lewiston, the New York State Department of Transportation, USA Niagara and the New York Power Authority will serve as partners. More information about the project can be found at www.niagaraparkwayremoval.com The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 79.5 million visits in 2022. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call 518.474.0456. Joins us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and the OPRHP Blog.

Spanning the full spectrum of visual gun detection, verification, activation, and notification,Omnilert Gun Detect empowers Rhombus customers to stop gun threats before they start LEESBURG, Va. and SACRAMENTO, Calif., Jan. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Omnilert, a leader in active shooter solutions, today announced the integration of its AI visual gun detection system with the Rhombus physical security platform to deliver a complete solution for gun detection and verification, emergency notification and crisis management. Providing a coordinated incident response workflow, this integration combines the capabilities and ecosystems of both products to broadcast multi-channel alerts, activate other safety systems and automate processes to share intelligence throughout an incident to ensure the best possible outcomes. Omnilert Gun Detect has a three-step verification process that not only recognizes a gun, but also the physical behavior consistent with gun violence. It can easily be deployed with any existing IP-based camera and can monitor spaces that other safety technology miss such as exterior grounds and parking lots. The software was designed with privacy concerns in mind as there is no use of facial recognition on subjects being monitored and live video feeds never leave the site. By leveraging Omnilert Gun Detect, Rhombus customers will be able to detect guns from existing security cameras and receive human-verified alerts across any configured platform. Rhombus customers can take advantage of Omnilert's complimentary monitoring service or choose to verify detections themselves in their own security operations center using the Rhombus platform. "The ability to detect guns, send instant alerts and reduce the time it takes to respond to threats can significantly help our customers prevent injuries and loss of life in the event of an active shooter situation," said Garrett Larsson, CEO of Rhombus. "We believe Omnilert Gun Detect is a game changer in active shooter situations and can deliver a much-needed layer of 24/7 protection to all of our customers." "Because our software is flexible and easy to integrate, it can be customized to meet the specific needs of any organization, which is key for Rhombus customers operating in a wide range of industries such as education, healthcare, manufacturing and government," said Nick Gustavsson, CTO of Omnilert. "Whether a company has 10 or 10,000 cameras, our software can monitor every single one simultaneously and watch for guns – and unlike human monitoring, it never gets tired or stops to take a break." Availability and More InformationThe integration between Omnilert and Rhombus is complete and ready for deployment today with a subscription to Omnilert's gun detection system.  More details can be found at the Rhombus Integrations website. Join Rhombus and Omnilert in an upcoming webinar, "Enhancing Campus Safety: How Rhombus and Omnilert Improve Emergency Response Time" on Tuesday, January 23rd, 9:00am PST to learn more. About RhombusRhombus is a unified, cloud-based physical security platform that brings security cameras, access control, sensors, alarms, and integrations together under a single pane of glass. Backed by Cota Capital, Caden Capital, Tru Arrow Partners, Lemnos Labs, and Promus Ventures, Rhombus is on a mission to make the world safer with simple, smart, and powerful physical security solutions. To learn more, visit rhombus.com. About OmnilertOmnilert is transforming public safety with the industry's most effective AI-powered active shooter prevention solution that combines early visual gun detection with a proven rapid response that can save time and lives. The Omnilert platform empowers existing security cameras with monitoring software that can identify gun threats at first sight and then activate automated response capabilities that maximize each critical second. Once a gun is verified, this could include locking doors, notifying first responders, sending images, location and video of the shooter; and sending alerts and guidance to anyone near the situation, all in mere seconds. Founded in 2004, Omnilert is the trusted partner to thousands of customers across multiple industries including K-12 schools, higher education, government, healthcare, manufacturing and retail. The company is headquartered in Virginia. For more information, visit https://omnilert.com/. Media Contacts:Erika PowelsonOmnilert Media Relationserika@powelsoninc.com408-781-4981 Sarah LatheIntegrated Marketing, Rhombussarah@rhombus.com(650) 826-2764 SOURCE Omnilert, LLC

On December 17, 2023, the State Police of Latham made a significant arrest that could potentially prevent future criminal activity. Kymir R. Pearson, a 32-year-old resident of Albany, NY, found himself in the custody of the authorities after being charged with multiple offenses. These charges included two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the second degree, three counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree, and several Vehicle and Traffic Law violations that further aggravated his legal predicament.The incident took place at approximately 2:34 a.m. on Quail Street in Albany, NY. State Troopers noticed a vehicle committing a violation related to the Vehicle and Traffic Law. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the driver of the vehicle was none other than Pearson, who was seemingly driving without a valid driver's license. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement officers noticed a firearm within the passenger area of Pearson's vehicle. This discovery prompted a thorough search, leading to the identification of a second loaded handgun. Shockingly, one of the handguns included an illegal high-capacity magazine, further exacerbating Pearson's legal situation. It became evident that he did not possess the necessary pistol permit and was illegally in possession of these firearms.Taking swift action, Pearson was promptly apprehended and transferred to SP Latham for processing. Subsequently, he was presented before the Albany City Court where he was arraigned. As a result of the charges levied against him, Pearson's bail was set at either $5,000 in cash, a $10,000 bond, or a $5,000 partially secured bond. Ultimately, he was remanded to the Albany County Correctional Facility, where he awaits further legal proceedings. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-albany-man-illegally-possessing-two-handguns

ALBANY, NEW YORK –Ahmed AlSaadi, age 18, of Troy, New York, pled guilty today to possessing a machinegun. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; James Smith, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and Troy Police Chief Daniel DeWolf. AlSaadi admitted that on August 2, 2023, he possessed three machinegun conversion devices and a Glock handgun that had been modified with a machinegun conversion device that allowed the Glock to shoot and function as a machinegun. AlSaadi also admitted to selling machinegun conversion devices from March to July 2023. AlSaadi, who is in custody, is scheduled to be sentenced on April 16, 2024, in Albany, by United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino. He faces up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of up to $250,000. The court may also require AlSaadi to serve a term of supervised release of up to 3 years to begin after imprisonment. 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. ATF, FBI, and Troy Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For Immediate Release U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of New York Updated December 21, 2023

On November 29th, 2023 New Hartford Police responded to investigate a report of a vehicle that had possibly been stolen from an auto repair shop on Seneca Turnpike and found abandoned in Madison County by Madison County Sheriff's Deputies. A suspect in this case, who is a 15-year-old juvenile male, was developed and suspected of stealing the 2009 GMC Pickup Truck during the early morning hours of November 29th, 2023, and driving it into Madison County where it was found abandoned. At the time of the theft, the truck was in the process of being sold and the actual owner of the vehicle was not known to police for a period of time. New Hartford Police Investigators were able to locate the actual owner who requested that an arrest be made for whomever stole the truck. Today at approximately 11:30 am New Hartford Police Officers responded to Walmart on Commercial Dr. to investigate a report of another stolen vehicle taken from the Walmart Parking Lot this morning. While on scene responding police officers were able to quickly determine that the same 15-year-old male who was suspected of stealing the truck back on November 29th, had stolen another truck today. Today the 15-year-old male stole a 2003 Chevrolet truck and drove it out of the parking lot onto Commercial Dr. Police later located the vehicle again in Madison County this time being operated by the same 15-year-old male. With the assistance of The Madison County Sheriff's Office, the juvenile was turned over to New Hartford Police and charged with Grand Larceny in The Fourth Degree, a Felony. The juvenile was referred to The Oneida County Probation Department to answer these charges at a later date and at this time released to the custody of his parent. Additional Charges are pending.

On December 19, 2023, Troopers out of SP Niagara arrested Claudia E. Charette, 54 of Niagara Falls, NY for Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated- BAC > 0.18, Driving While Intoxicated, and other vehicle and traffic infractions. On December 19, 2023, at 8:43 P.M., While on patrol, Troopers operating a marked NYSP Division Dodge Charger were struck by a 2007 Buick on Porter Road in the city of Niagara Falls. The NYSP Charger was turning onto Porter Road from 38th Street and was struck by the 2007 Buick traveling northbound on Porter Road. While responding Troopers were interviewing the operator of the Buick, Charette had an odor of alcoholic beverage was present and declined multiple SFSTs. Charette was arrested and transported to SP Niagara for processing and recorded a .22% BAC after a breath test—no injuries from the collision. Charette was issued traffic tickets returnable to the city of Niagara Falls Court for a later date in January 2024. Niagara Falls Police Department and Niagara County Sheriff’s Office assisted in this investigation. Scene photo provided by NC News Service- Larry Kensinger. Troop A Commander: Major Eugene J. Staniszewski Contact us by email: james.ocallaghan@troopers.ny.gov Contact us by fax: (585) 344-6279

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the State Park System by Participating in an Array of Activities and Programs Participants Can Earn a Commemorative Sticker and a Chance to Win Empire Passes Watch Centennial Challenge Video to Learn How It Works Traducción al español Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a year-long celebratory challenge that all New York State residents and visitors can participate in to explore our state parks, learn about New York history, and give back to New York State Parks for the next generation of adventurers. Set to begin on January 1, 2024, the New York State Parks Centennial Challenge includes 100 missions that can be completed at various state parks and historic sites. Participants will need to complete 24 missions throughout 2024 to complete the challenge. "There is so much to do within our vast state park system, and the Centennial Challenge is a great way to introduce New Yorkers and visitors, alike, to our historic and awe-inspiring properties for 2024’s 100th anniversary celebration,"Governor Hochul said. "Our park system is an incredible place to visit year-round, and the Centennial Challenge is a great activity for all who are resolving to have a fun and adventurous New Year.” The Centennial Challenge is part of a year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of the founding of New York’s statewide park and historic site system. The celebration will both highlight and build upon one of New York State’s greatest environmental legacies. In 1924, Governor Alfred E. Smith and the State Legislature created the New York State Council of Parks while voters approved a $15 million Bond Act to build and enlarge a network of state parks, forging the New York State park and historic site system that New York State residents and visitors know and cherish today. New York State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, "The Centennial Challenge is a wonderful opportunity to experience the unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation, culture and education that are available in the New York State Park system. You may already have a favorite park or a favorite activity, but there is more for everyone to see and do—be it locally or around the state. I encourage residents and visitors alike to take up the Challenge to discover new and exciting ways to enjoy these amazing places.” The Challenge is designed to be completed by people of all abilities and can be finished by visiting parks and historic sites across the state or keeping with one that’s close to home. Some example Centennial Challenge “missions” include: Go camping at one of more than 8,500 campsites Visit a “new-to-you” state park or historic site and bring a picnic Pack your skates and go skating at one of state parks’ ice rinks Talk to an interpreter about the history of a state historic site Join a volunteer event Learn the Leave No Trace principles and apply them during your next visit Participants will need to complete 24 missions (earn 24 points) throughout 2024 in order to complete the challenge. Those who complete it will earn a commemorative Centennial sticker, and, in turn, be entered into a promotional giveaway where 24 lucky participants will win a three-year Empire Pass and Centennial merchandise. For every 10 additional points, participants will receive one additional entry into the promotional giveaway. The promotional drawing will take place the week of January 13, 2025. Submissions (both mailed in and submitted via the Goosechase app) will be accepted through January 10, 2025. How It Works Participants can get involved by downloading an app on their phone or completing a paper form. Goosechase app Participants can take the challenge on the go by downloading the Goosechase app on their phone from the iPhone or Android app store Search for “NY State Parks Centennial Challenge” to join Once they’ve joined, participants can collect points by completing missions right in the app by either taking and uploading photos or videos or submitting an answer to a question Checklist A paper checklist can be downloaded on our Centennial Challenge website and printed at home or can be picked up at your local state park or historic site Collect points by checking missions off the list and mailing the checklist in once participants have earned 24 points For more information on the New York State Park Centennial, visit www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 79.5 million visits in 2022. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call 518.474.0456. Joins us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and the OPRHP Blog. Contact the Governor’s Press Office Contact us by phone: Albany: (518) 474-8418 New York City: (212) 681-4640 Contact us by email: