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Press Release On April 14, 2026, State Police of Latham arrested Alexie A. Santos, 36, of Menands, NY, on a warrant for Grand Larceny 2nd, a class “C” felony. During a previous larceny investigation from Curaleaf in Coeymans, investigators discovered an additional larceny. Santos, who was reportedly employed by the business, allegedly stole more than $50,000 worth of Cannabis from the facility between March 11, 2026, and March 13, 2026. On April 13, 2026, an arrest warrant was issued for Santos as a result of this investigation. Santos was arrested during a traffic stop in Menands, NY. He was then transported to SP Latham for processing. Santos was arraigned at the Coeymans Town Court, where he was remanded to the Albany County Correctional Facility without bail. Please reference the link to a press release related to the previously reported theft from Curaleaf: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/police-arrest-schenectady-man-following-coeymans-larceny-investigation

Program Now Reimburses Volunteer Firefighters for Completing Five Additional Training Courses More Than 4,000 Volunteer Firefighters Have Successfully Completed Training Through the Stipend Program Since 2023 Governor Hochul’s Continued Investments Make New York Safer and More Affordable Video of the Governor’s Announcement Available Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York’s Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program is expanding to offset costs for five additional training courses available to volunteer firefighters. New York State created the program to strengthen the volunteer fire service and address recruitment and retention challenges by offsetting the costs of required training that individuals need to become a firefighter. This expansion will help reduce obstacles preventing volunteer firefighters from advancing their careers. Since 2023, more than 4,000 volunteer firefighters have successfully completed training through the program. “Since taking office, I’ve been laser-focused on making New York safer and more affordable. By expanding the Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program, we’re doing both – cutting costs for those who serve while enhancing their lifesaving skills,” Governor Hochul said. “This program makes critical training more accessible, allowing our volunteers to grow in their careers without sacrificing their ability to provide for their families. I’m proud to invest in our volunteer firefighters who put their lives on the line to keep New Yorkers safe.” The new stipend-eligible courses and course equivalencies are: Firefighter Survival: Self Rescue: This course teaches firefighters how to rescue themselves if they become trapped or compromised during a fire incident. Stipend Amount: $250 Firefighter Assist and Search Team, and Rapid Intervention Crew: These courses are designed to train firefighters in the critical skills needed to rescue fellow firefighters who are trapped or in distress during an incident.Stipend Amount: $350 Fire and Emergency Services Instructor 1, Fire Officer II, and Firefighter 2: These courses are advanced leadership and instructor development programs. They aim to enhance the leadership capabilities of fire department members and improve their effectiveness in incident command roles, ultimately contributing to the safety of firefighters. Stipend Amount: $500 These five courses build on the catalog of trainings that are already stipend-eligible: Basic Wildland Fire Suppression ($250) Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations ($750), Fire Officer 1 ($1,000) and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus/Interior Firefighting Operations ($1,250). Since the inception of the stipend program, completion of the Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations, and Interior Firefighting Operations courses have increased by 20 percent and completion of the Fire Officer I course has risen 35 percent. New York State Homeland Security and Emergency Services Acting Commissioner Terry O’Leary said, “New York’s volunteer firefighters are critical parts of the fabric of communities statewide and they put their lives on the line every time they answer a call to protect those communities. As New York continues to face challenges with volunteer recruitment, the stipend program has resulted in marked increases in class completions, which has brought additional firefighters to departments across the state. Thanks to the leadership and support of Governor Hochul, this stipend program expansion will continue to help volunteer departments recruit and retain members, keeping themselves and their communities safe.” New York State Fire Administrator James Cable said, “The Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend has contributed to an increase in the number of firefighters completing eligible training courses. The fire training courses included in this expansion of the program focus on firefighter safety and survival skills along with leadership and instructor development, all key areas promoting effectiveness and safety both during training and on the fireground.” New York State County Fire Coordinators Association President Bill Streicher said, “Now more than ever, it is vital that we support our volunteer fire organizations to boost recruitment and retention within the fire service across New York State. These stipends serve to promote and strengthen the fire service across our state while providing a small stipend to firefighters who participate in these classes, to better prepare themselves to serve their communities.” New York State Association of Fire Chiefs CEO Bruce Heberer said, “Proper training keeps our firefighters and our communities safer and at a time when our volunteer agencies are strained, and every dollar counts. The Volunteer training stipends are a vital resource of income to the members of our fire services so that they can focus on their training, instead worrying about how they are going to make ends meet if the training causes them to miss work, allowing them to continue serve their department and take care of their home life!” Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York President Joseph Badala said, “Investments in our fire districts are investments in our communities as better services make our state safer for everyone. We thank Governor Hochul for her efforts to provide departments with the resources they need to do their work safely and strategically.” Additionally, a local fire training stipend may be authorized for the completion of any state Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) training course or equivalent, as determined by OFPC, up to $500. Courses must have been completed on or after August 31, 2023, and applicants must be a member in good standing as determined by their department. Stipend applications must be submitted to OFPC-Stipend@dhses.ny.gov. Additional information on the stipend program can be found on the DHSES website. Approximately nine million New Yorkers, nearly half of the state’s population, are served by volunteer firefighters. Yet in recent years, more than 75 percent of these departments have reported a decrease in the number of individuals willing to volunteer and serve. This shortage is further compounded by the increased operational responsibilities beyond fire protection, including vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, hazardous material spills and weather-related rescue operations. At the same time, calls for service have increased 29 percent from 1997 to 2020. In addition to the Volunteer Training Stipend, Governor Hochul has sought to strengthen and stabilize the state’s volunteer fire service by supporting the capital needs of volunteer fire departments through the Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment (V-FIRE) Grant Program. Through the first round of V-FIRE funding in October 2024, the state provided $25 million to 88 entities to support the construction of new, or renovation of existing fire stations, classrooms, meeting spaces or training centers; installation of exhaust and decontamination systems; and/or the purchase of equipment such as firefighter Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), PPE washers and dryers and firefighter rehabilitation equipment. About the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control The Office of Fire Prevention and Control delivers a wide breadth of services to firefighters, emergency responders, state and local government agencies, public and private colleges, and the citizens of New York. The office advances public safety through firefighter training, education, fire prevention, investigative, special operations and technical rescue programs. The delivery of these essential services enables the office to make significant contributions to the safety of all of New York State. About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services provides leadership, coordination and support for efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to and recover from terrorism, natural disasters, threats, fires and other emergencies. For more information, visit the DHSES Facebook page, follow @NYSDHSES on X, or visit dhses.ny.gov. Get real time emergency and weather alert texts delivered directly to your phone. Text your county or borough of residence to 333111 to enroll now. Learn more about emergency alerts at dhses.ny.gov/emergency-alerts. Sources: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/supporting-first-responders-governor-hochul-announces-expansion-new-yorks-volunteer

The Incident and Immediate Response WESTMORELAND, N.Y. — According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a Westmoreland man was arrested early Tuesday morning following a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) investigation on Daily Road in the Town of Westmoreland. On April 21, 2026, at approximately 1:36 a.m., Road Patrol deputies were dispatched by the Oneida County 911 Center to the intersection of Bartlett Road and Daily Road for a reported motor vehicle accident of unknown severity. Upon arrival, deputies observed a vehicle disabled in a ditch along Daily Road. Following an investigation at the scene, the operator of the vehicle was taken into custody by a deputy assigned to the STOP-DWI Unit. The driver was identified as Martin F. Richlin, 63, of Westmoreland. He was charged with Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, along with additional New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law misdemeanors and violations. Richlin was transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building for processing. He was later released and is scheduled to be arraigned at Westmoreland Town Court at a later date. All charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

VERONA, N.Y. — According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a Verona woman was arrested Wednesday evening following a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) investigation on State Route 31 in the Town of Verona. On April 16, 2026, at approximately 8:14 p.m., a Road Patrol deputy conducted a traffic stop after observing multiple vehicle and traffic violations involving a 2011 Jeep Compass. During the stop, deputies reported observing signs of impairment exhibited by the operator. Following a subsequent investigation, the driver was taken into custody by a deputy assigned to the STOP-DWI Unit. The operator, identified as Jennifer J. Carson, 54, of Verona, was charged with Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the First Degree, along with additional New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law misdemeanors and violations. Carson was transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building for processing. She was later released and is scheduled to be arraigned at Verona Town Court at a later date. As with all criminal cases, the charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Jennifer J. Carson, 54, of Verona NY

The following is an update to the officer involved shooting that occurred on Sunday, April 12, 2026 The individual who operated the 2016 Subaru that struck multiple people, and was subsequently involved in an officer-involved shooting has been identified as Irene M. McIntyre , 46, of East Syracuse, New York. The New York State Police member involved in the officer-involved shooting is Trooper Michael A. Sharshon . Trooper Sharshon has served with the New York State Police for more than four years and is assigned to SP LaFayette. He is currently on critical incident leave. The deceased victim who was struck by McIntyre has been identified as Cheryl Miron , 79, of Fayetteville, New York. The incident was captured on body-worn cameras but will not be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation. Original Press Release April 12, 2026 On April 12, 2026, at approximately 1:37 a.m., New York State Police responded to 5600 Shute Road in the town of LaFayette for a report of an erratic driver traveling through residential yards at a high rate of speed. An investigation determined that a female suspect operating a 2016 Subaru struck a female victim prior to police arrival. A male attempted to stop the suspect by positioning his vehicle behind hers, at which point the suspect backed into his vehicle. Upon arrival, a New York State Trooper observed the suspect continuing to operate the vehicle in a manner that endangered individuals on scene, including running over the female victim and a second male who was attempting to assist despite repeated commands to stop, the suspect continued her actions. A Trooper discharged their division-issued firearm, striking the sole occupant of the vehicle. The suspect was transported to Upstate University Hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The female victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two male victims were transported to Upstate University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The incident is under investigation by the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The State Police contacted the Attorney General’s Office and they responded to the scene. This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/new-york-state-police-investigate-officer-involved-shooting-lafayette

Press Release On April 6, 2026, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the New York State Police responded to Upstate Correctional Facility on Bare Hill Road in the town of Malone for a report of a deceased male. An investigation determined that Michael J. Campbell, age 51, was found unresponsive under a sheet. Further investigation revealed signs of foul play, indicating that Campbell had been strangled with a shoelace by his cellmate, Andrew Hernandez, age 42. An autopsy was conducted at Glens Falls Hospital by forensic pathologist Dr. Michael S. Sikirica. The cause of death was determined to be asphyxia due to ligature strangulation, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office, and the New York State Attorney General’s Office are assisting with the investigation. This remains an ongoing investigation, and charges are pending.

The New York State Police are investigating a serious motor vehicle incident that occurred on Colony Park Drive in the town of Salina, Onondaga County. On April 11, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Uniform Force members responded to a report of a vehicle that had crashed into a residence. The investigation determined that Brendan M. Kearney, age 38, of Syracuse, NY, had transported Jamell L. Works, age 41, of Liverpool, NY, to his residence. Upon arrival, Works refused to exit the vehicle while seated in the driver’s seat. Both Kearney and the witness attempted to have Works exit the vehicle. During this interaction, Kearney reached into the driver’s side in an effort to remove the keys. At that time, Works accelerated the vehicle in reverse, dragging Kearney a short distance. Kearney was thrown to the pavement and sustained serious injuries. Works continued operating the vehicle in reverse, ultimately crashing into the living room of a nearby residence on Colony Park Drive. Kearney was transported to Upstate University Hospital where he is currently listed in critical condition with a reported brain bleed. A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation was conducted, and Works was determined to be impaired by drugs at the time of the incident. Works is charged with the following:    • Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs (DWAI Drugs)    • Vehicular Assault    • Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the First Degree (AUO 1st)    • Additional Vehicle and Traffic Law violations The investigation is continuing. Contact Troop D, Source's: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigating-dwai-drugs-and-vehicular-assault-onondaga-county

Update:   On April 9, 2026, Mark Smith , age 41, of Bridgeport, NY, succumbed to injuries sustained in the residential fire that occurred on March 24, 2026. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is still ongoing. Original Press Release March 25, 2026 :  On March 24, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., New York State Police responded to 7905 Areopagitica Avenue in the town of Cicero for a reported structure fire. Mark Smith , age 41, of Bridgeport, NY, was inside the residence at the time of the fire and was transported to Upstate University Hospital in critical condition. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is ongoing. At this time, preliminary findings do not indicate foul play. New York State Police were assisted at the scene by the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, Bridgeport Fire Department, Minoa Fire Department, Onondaga County Department of Emergency Management Fire Investigation Unit, Cicero Fire Department, Clay Fire Department, South Bay Fire Department, East Syracuse Fire Department, Fayetteville Fire Department, and North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps. The investigation remains ongoing.

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today announced construction is underway on a new roundabout and noise wall on State Route 825 in the City of Rome. The start of construction on the roundabout and noise wall are the latest milestones in support of Chobani’s future 2-million-square-foot dairy processing facility on the County-owned Triangle Site at Griffiss International Airport. A significant portion of site and infrastructure work at the Triangle Site is being completed by Oneida County using a combination of County and New York State funding. “This project represents another major step forward in preparing the Triangle Site for Chobani’s transformative investment in our community,” Picente said. “The construction of this roundabout and noise wall not only supports the infrastructure needs of this world-class facility and site, but also ensures we are doing so in a way that prioritizes safety, traffic efficiency and quality of life for nearby residents. We are proud to continue making strategic investments that position Oneida County for long-term economic growth and opportunity.” The new roundabout will connect State Route 825 to an enhanced Perimeter Road, which will serve as the primary access point to the Triangle Site and Chobani’s future dairy processing facility. The noise wall will act as a buffer between homes and the roundabout. Work is beginning with necessary tree removal. Traffic will be detoured starting in May. More information on the temporary detour will be released prior to activation. The roundabout and noise wall are expected to be completed this fall. “We appreciate Oneida County and New York State’s continued investment in infrastructure that supports the Chobani project and strengthens the long-term economic outlook of our region,” said Rome Mayor Jeffrey M. Lanigan. “Improvements like this roundabout will enhance traffic flow and safety while helping ensure that this development integrates smoothly with the surrounding community.” Other work spearheaded by Oneida County includes the construction of a 12-inch steel natural gas main, a sanitary sewer pump station and force main and the installation of a new electrical service that will provide an additional 50 megawatts of power to the Triangle Site. All work will continue to advance in phases throughout 2026 and in parallel with Chobani’s timelines.

Oneida County Hosts ‘Together We Can’ Breakfast to Raise Child Abuse Awareness Oneida County kicked off Child Abuse Prevention Month today by hosting an awareness breakfast that brought together community leaders, service providers and residents committed to protecting children and strengthening families. After gathering several years under a different format, this year’s inaugural breakfast event highlighted the importance of collaboration in creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive. The theme of “Together We Can” underscored the shared responsibility of individuals, families, public and private agencies and businesses to ensure the well-being of children across the community. “Nothing we do as a county is more important than protecting our children,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “Our caseworkers and investigators are on the front lines every day working to prevent abuse, hold offenders accountable and support victims through incredibly difficult circumstances. But this responsibility belongs to all of us. We each have a role to play in recognizing the signs, speaking up and being part of the solution. When we support children and strengthen families, we strengthen our entire community.” Speakers and participants emphasized that while Child Abuse Prevention Month acknowledges the serious harm and trauma caused by abuse and neglect, it also serves as a call to action. By fostering strong relationships and ensuring access to essential supports such as employment, housing, food, healthcare, childcare, transportation and recreational opportunities, communities can reduce stress on families and promote stability. Research shows that child abuse and neglect can have lifelong consequences, including mental health challenges, physical health issues, difficulties in relationships and increased risk of premature death. However, positive childhood experiences and nurturing, stable relationships can build resilience and improve long-term outcomes. Even one caring adult can play a critical role in helping a child overcome adversity and achieve a healthy, successful future. With more than 550,000 children being abused and 2,000 annual fatalities occurring nationwide each year, the event highlighted the ongoing need for awareness and intervention in Oneida County, where the following occurred in 2025: 3,543 reports of child abuse or neglect were received by the Department of Family and Community Services (DFCS). 198 petitions related to abuse or neglect were filed in Family Court. Preventive services supported 1,452 at-risk children living at home with their families. In partnership with community agencies, the County provided assistance to 575 vulnerable families. In 2025, the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center (CAC)­­ —a multidisciplinary team comprised of members of DFCS and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups­­­— investigated 1,020 cases of child abuse, serving 860 children. As a result of those efforts, 39 arrests were made, 39 medical exams were conducted and 419 children received counseling services. “Child abuse is not something that can be ignored,” said Oneida County Sheriff Robert M. Maciol. “It is something that must be addressed with every resource at our disposal. Every year, we bring attention to the need to protect our children. Not only do we need to be aware of the symptoms of child abuse, but we also need to educate the public on the steps they can take to help. This is critical to the mission of the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center.” “Safeguarding children from harm is among the highest responsibilities of the District Attorney’s Office,” said District Attorney Todd C. Carville. “During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we urge the community to stay vigilant, recognize the indicators of abuse and support law enforcement efforts to stop it. Our office remains committed to standing up for victims and holding offenders accountable through aggressive prosecution.” “April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month,” said Chief Deputy Derrick O’Meara, Director of the CAC. “Raising awareness is critical, but protecting children is a responsibility we all carry year-round. From teachers and parents to neighbors, healthcare providers and community members, everyone has a role to play in recognizing concerns and helping ensure children remain safe.” “Neglect is frequently tied to broader economic and social challenges that limit a family’s access to the resources needed to raise children in a safe and healthy environment,” said DFCS Commissioner Colleen Fahy-Box. “That’s why prevention requires a community-wide effort. Whether it’s offering support to a struggling family, staying attentive to the needs of children we interact with or getting involved in organizations that serve youth, even small, everyday actions can make a meaningful difference in reducing maltreatment and helping children grow up in stable, nurturing environments.” Common signs of child abuse to watch out for include: Unexplained injuries Negative changes in behavior Returning to earlier childhood behaviors Fear of going home Changes in eating Changes in sleeping Changes in school performance and attendance Lack of personal care or hygiene Risk taking behaviors Inappropriate sexual behaviors Anyone who is aware that a child is in immediate danger should call 911. If someone suspects that a child is the victim of sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect or maltreatment, it can be reported to the New York State Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-342-3720.

Investigator Patrick J. Hogan became a member of the New York State Police on January 8, 1996. He entered into service retirement from the New York State Police after 22 years of service on May 30, 2018. On April 13, 2023, Investigator Hogan died as a result of metastatic lung cancer stemming from his assignment to the World Trade Center site, following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. In response to the events of 9/11, Investigator Hogan was assigned to aid with the search and recovery efforts in New York City, as part of the New York State Police Detail. Investigator Hogan is survived by his wife and three children.

The New Hartford Police Department has arrested three individuals following an investigation into multiple retail larcenies that occurred at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store located at 4699 Middle Settlement Road. On March 23, 2026, officers responded to Lowe’s for a report of several thefts occurring over multiple days. An investigation determined that a male suspect entered the store on several occasions and stole power tools by concealing them in a reusable shopping bag before exiting without paying. After a review of surveillance footage, investigative databases, and follow-up interviews, officers identified those involved and determined that the incidents occurred on March 18, March 19, March 21, and March 24, 2026. The total value of the stolen merchandise was approximately $1,120. The investigation further revealed that stolen items were pawned and resold locally, police were able to recover several of the stolen tools during the course of the investigation. The case was thoroughly investigated by the New Hartford Police Officers, whose efforts led to the identification of the involved parties and the recovery of stolen property. As a result, the following individuals were arrested and charged: ARRESTED: William Miller, age 62, of New Hartford. • Charge: NYS PL 155.30- Grand Larceny in the 4th Degree (Class E Felony) Warren Jones, age 60, of New Hartford. • Charge: NYS PL 155.25- Petit Larceny (Class A Misdemeanor) Lauren Lopez, age 47, of Utica. • Charge: NYS PL 165.40-Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the 5th Degree (Class A Misdemeanor) All three individuals voluntarily surrendered themselves to the New Hartford Police Department, were processed, and released on Appearance Tickets returnable to the Town of New Hartford Criminal Court at a later date. The New Hartford Police Department continues to collaborate closely with regional loss prevention partners through the Department’s area loss prevention coalition to address all forms of retail theft—particularly coordinated, organized theft rings and illegal pawn operations. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0CaxPkvf56ZQb2tzowkhP8Mfp6U256bMSjAfPU1QTjnuYYPyXSnXrcaLjbnFWNU8Rl&id=100064364722662