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Press Release On October 27, 2025, State Police arrested  Curtis L. Williams , 20 of Rensselaer, NY for Reckless Endangerment in the second degree, five counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and numerous Vehicle and Traffic Law violations.   On October 27, 2025, at about 7:26 a.m. Troopers responded to the report of a two-vehicle crash involving a school bus on State Route 145 in Rensselaerville, NY. The investigation determined  Williams  was reportedly recklessly driving his vehicle at a high rate of speed southbound on State Route 145, according to witnesses.   Williams  crossed over into the northbound lane and struck a northbound Middleburgh Central School District bus occupied by the driver, an adult attendant, and five children.  Williams’s  vehicle then overturned, striking a utility pole. One child and  Williams  did report minor injuries resulting from the crash, but neither was transported for further medical care. State Route 145 remained closed between Fox Creek Road (County Route 352) and State Route 81 for the investigation and repair of the utility pole until approximately 11:30 a.m. But has since been reopened. Williams  was transported to SP Latham for processing. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Rensselaerville Town Court on November 10, 2025, and released. State Police would like to thank the Middleburgh Central School District and the Tri-Village Volunteer Fire Department for their quick action and cooperation during the investigation.  Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-driver-following-collision-school-bus-rensselaerville

Press Release On October 27, 2025, State Police with the assistance of the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) arrested  Dave Torres , 32 of Cobleskill, NY for Arson in the second degree and Arson in the third degree. On October 26, 2025, at about 10:14 p.m. Troopers responded to a home on East Main Street in Cobleskill, NY for the reports of an unwanted individual. While en route Troopers were notified that the neighboring multi-residential building was on fire. The fire was extinguished by Cobleskill Fire, and it was determined that no one was in the three-apartment residence. The New York State Office of Fire Investigators located evidence indicating the fire was intentionally started.  Torres  was reportedly present in an apartment within the building and allegedly intentionally set the fire before fleeing the home.  Further investigation identified  Torres  as the unwanted subject law enforcement had originally been contacted about.  Torres had reportedly been involved in an earlier verbal altercation at the neighboring residence where he had threatened to physically harm the victim. Torres had been told to leave after the altercation which he did for a short period of time but then returned, which is when law enforcement was contacted. The victim of that altercation was later determined to be the resident of the apartment where the fire had originated.  Torres  was arrested in Cobleskill, NY, and transported to SP Cobleskill for processing. He was arraigned at the Schoharie County Centralized Arraignment Part Court where he was remanded to the Schoharie County Correctional Facility in lieu of $50,000 cash, $100,000 bond, or a $150,000 partially secured bond.

October 27, 2025 – Utica, NY A Utica man was taken into custody Monday morning after allegedly punching a hole in a wall inside the Oneida County Office Building. According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, at approximately 10:19 a.m., 33-year-old Paul Vannort II  was leaving a waiting room on the first floor of the building when he struck a wall with a closed fist, causing a fist-sized hole. Sheriff’s Deputies assigned to the Office Building immediately detained Vannort and took him into custody. He was transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building , where he was charged with Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree  (Section 145.00, Subsection 1 of the New York State Penal Law), a Class A misdemeanor . Vannort was processed and issued an appearance ticket returnable to Utica City Court  at a later date. During the arrest process, Deputies learned that Vannort was currently on state parole . The New York State Division of Parole was notified, and a violation of parole warrant  was issued. Vannort was subsequently transported to the Oneida County Correctional Facility , where he was turned over to Correctional Officers and held on a parole violation.

Fans Invited to Popular Finger Lakes Campground for Mother’s Day Weekend NASCAR Cup Series Run Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is opening camping season early at Watkins Glen State Park next spring to welcome race fans to the Finger Lakes. The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series race rolls in for Mother’s Day weekend, a shift from its traditional August date. “Welcoming NASCAR back to New York’s famous Watkins Glen International Raceway means so much to the state and the region,” Governor Hochul said. “In preparation, we are opening Watkins Glen State Park to campers for the Mother’s Day weekend festivities. We are excited to have thousands of visitors revving their engines to the area for three national races at the famed road course.” The race entitled “Go Bowling at the Glen” is scheduled for Sunday, May 10, 2026, Mother's Day. This move on the calendar, up from the traditional August date, helps distribute the road course races more evenly throughout the season. The event will feature all three national series May 8-10 around the 2.45-mile circuit. New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “NASCAR’s rolling road trip is making an early stop in New York State and Watkins Glen State Park is ready to help welcome the action. This will be the start of a big season of tourism and outdoor recreation for Watkins Glen State Park. Thanks to our team in the Finger Lakes Region for the planning and preparation of all that comes with a Watkins Glen racing weekend.” Watkins Glen State Park will now open two of its camping loops, approximately 100 electric sites, from May 8-10. The rest of the camping area will open as normal the following weekend. Reservations can be made beginning Monday, October 27 at 9 a.m. Available sites are expected to be filled quickly. Visit the Reserve America page on the NYS Parks website or call toll free 1-800-456-CAMP. Watkins Glen International President Dawn Burlew said, “Race fans flock to the greater Watkins Glen area, not only for the exciting on-track action, but also for the beauty and natural wonder of the region. We appreciate that Watkins Glen State Park will be opening their 2026 season early to welcome fans coming for the NASCAR race weekend, May 8-10. This will allow fans and race teams the opportunity to truly enjoy all that Watkins Glen has to offer during their visit.” Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nigar Hale said, “Our hats are off to the Watkins Glen State Park – as this is a fabulous example of the Chamber’s trust and confidence in the State Park’s response to NASCAR’s schedule change. We applaud their early preparation and attention to opening the Campground at this Springtime juncture, understanding the importance of making sure our NASCAR audience will have an opportunity to explore our natural wonder.” The NASCAR race weekend again plays host to the NASCAR Cup Series, NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Below are the dates of the 2026 NASCAR races at Watkins Glen International: Friday, May 8 – NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race Saturday, May 9 – NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Mission 200 at The Glen Sunday, May 10 – NASCAR Cup Series Go Bowling at The Glen New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Sources: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-early-opening-watkins-glen-state-park-camping-season-welcome-nascar

Advances New York’s ‘30 x 30’ Open Space Protection Goals and Helps Connect New Yorkers to the Outdoors The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the acquisition of more than 3,387 acres of forest and wetlands located in the towns of Salisbury and Norway, Herkimer County. The parcel, purchased from the Open Space Institute (OSI), will be managed for forest products, expanded recreational access, protection of critical drinking water sources, and enhancement of ecosystem resilience. “The Spruce Creek acquisition marks a major win for clean water, climate resilience, and connecting New Yorkers to the outdoors,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul’s historic support of the Environmental Protection Fund and Open Space Institute’s partnership, New York State is advancing our shared goals to protect natural resources and improve public access to open space.” The property includes hardwood and softwood forests, nearly 900 acres of wetlands, and several miles of Spruce Creek, a tributary of the East Canada Creek which eventually flows into the Mohawk River. The property sits just outside the southwestern boundary of the Adirondack Forest Preserve and connects to more than 150,000 acres of DEC's  Ferris Lake Wild Forest . The wetlands and forests on the parcel provide habitat for a wide range of species including black bear, white-tailed deer, bobcat, river otter, and fisher. These features also play a vital role in filtering rainwater that serves as part of the drinking water supply for the city of Little Falls.   Ten acres of the property will be added to the Adirondack Forest Preserve, while the remaining acreage located just outside of the Adirondack Park boundary will be state forest. Region 6 Director Randall Young said , “This acquisition reflects DEC’s commitment to protecting the natural resources that define Region 6. The Spruce Creek property safeguards critical wildlife habitat and clean water as it expands the network of conserved lands that make the Adirondack region so special.” President and CEO, Open Space Institute Erik Kulleseid said, "The conservation of the Spruce Creek property is a significant achievement in OSI's long history of bold, strategic land protection in the Adirondacks, where we have saved almost 60,000 acres of land to date--with more to come. We were proud to work with our partners at DEC to permanently protect this special place and the wealth of benefits it offers. We are also deeply grateful to the Wyss Foundation for making this moment possible, and we appreciate the support provided by the Environmental Protection Fund in preserving a vital source of clean water for the people and businesses of Little Falls and beyond." Although the purchase and transfer of the Spruce Creek property are now complete, public access is currently limited to one location off Dairy Hill Road just south of the junction with Guideboard Road. DEC staff are working to establish additional safe and sustainable access points that will support future recreational use while protecting natural resources. The public is asked to respect the limited access during development of these additional points. DEC will provide updates and announce when these improvements are completed. The acquisition was made possible by OSI’s $3 million land purchase from Datum 9 Forestry LLC. DEC subsequently acquired the 3,387-acre parcel using $3 million from the  EPF . Among the many environmental achievements in the enacted 2025-26 State Budget, Governor Hochul increased the EPF’s historically high level to $425 million. The EPF supports climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, improves agricultural resources to promote sustainable agriculture, protects water sources, advances conservation efforts, and provides recreational opportunities for New Yorkers. The EPF also supports New York’s  30x30 initiative , which commits to conserving 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030.

State Officials Urge Caution as Animal Activity Increases Across New York Roads As the leaves change color and daylight fades earlier each evening, state officials are reminding drivers that fall isn’t just scenic—it’s also one of the most dangerous times of year for wildlife collisions. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)  and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)  are urging motorists to stay alert behind the wheel this season as deer and moose become more active, particularly from October through December . “A chance encounter with a deer or moose is much more likely this time of year,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder . “There are steps you can take to decrease your risk so you can get safely to your destination.” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton  echoed the warning, noting that deer and moose are most active at dusk and dawn , when visibility is low. “Motorists should be especially cautious during these times and follow all important safety tips to avoid an accidental encounter with wildlife while driving,” she said. Crash Numbers Spike in Fall Months According to the University at Albany’s Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, there were 32,287 deer-related crashes  statewide last year and 7,616 collisions  involving other animals.Those numbers surge in late fall— 5,854 deer crashes were recorded in November 2024 alone , the highest of any month. The counties with the highest number of deer crashes in 2024 included: Monroe County  – 1,431 crashes Orange County  – 1,366 crashes St. Lawrence County  – 1,266 crashes Jefferson County  – 1,224 crashes Ontario County  – 1,174 crashes Erie County  – 1,001 crashes Why Fall Is the Riskiest Time Fall marks the breeding season  for both deer and moose, causing them to move more frequently and unpredictably across roadways. Their darker coloring also makes them harder to spot at night—especially moose, whose height often places them above the reach of vehicle headlights. New York is home to an estimated 1.1 to 1.3 million white-tailed deer  and about 700 moose , most of which reside in the Adirondack region. Safety Tips for Drivers To stay safe this season, officials recommend the following: Slow down  when deer are near the roadside; they can change direction suddenly. Expect company —if one deer crosses, others are likely nearby. Use headlights  to alert other drivers when wildlife is present. Honk your horn  to scare animals away from the road. Be extra cautious  at dawn and dusk when visibility is low. Never swerve  to avoid an animal—brake firmly and stay in your lane. Stay clear  of injured animals; they may kick or charge if frightened. If you do strike a deer or moose: Pull over safely  and turn on hazard lights. Call police  if the animal blocks traffic or creates a hazard. File an official crash report  if injuries occur or damage exceeds $1,000. Inspect your vehicle  before driving away—if in doubt, call for a tow. As Commissioner Schroeder put it, “Slowing down and staying alert could mean the difference between a close call and a serious crash.” Would you like me to make this version sound more conversational and local-news friendly  (like something you’d read on Explore NY  or a regional outlet), or keep it in this official-yet-readable statewide tone ?

Utica, N.Y. – October 22, 2025 On Tuesday afternoon, Utica Police and Fire Department units responded to a stabbing incident on the 1300 block of Genesee Street at approximately 4:30 p.m. According to police, a 911 call reported that a man had stabbed his girlfriend and that she was inside the residence. When officers arrived, they found a male standing on the sidewalk holding a blood-covered knife. Upon seeing the officers, the man immediately dropped the weapon and raised his hands in surrender. He was detained without further incident and placed into a patrol vehicle. Officers then entered the apartment, where they discovered a woman suffering from multiple stab wounds to her head, neck, and body. She was quickly transported to Wynn Hospital by Utica Police for treatment. Medical staff later confirmed that her injuries were serious but not life-threatening. Investigators determined that an argument had occurred between the two individuals during which the knife changed hands, ultimately resulting in the woman’s injuries. The suspect, identified as Craig Powers, 41, of Utica , was charged with: Assault in the Second Degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree The investigation remains ongoing. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064802073577

This photo from the Sparrow section of the nysth.com website features Lieutenant Tremaine Hughes of the New York State Police, one of the first State Troopers to earn a pilot’s license, dated July 27, 1931. It offers a glimpse into an era when aviation was becoming a vital tool for law enforcement, expanding the reach and capabilities of Troopers across New York State. Have a memory connected to aviation or early NYSP history? We’d love to hear it — share your stories below. Explore more historic photos on our Flickr and the New York State Troopers History website: www.flickr.com/people/nyspolice/ www.nysth.com

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the 15 th Annual Oneida County Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up saw 600 youth volunteers serve the homes of 100 seniors. “Oneida County’s Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up is a testament to the power of community and the importance of giving back,” Picente said. “These youth volunteers show their dedication by helping our seniors prepare for winter, lending a hand with tasks that are vital to the well-being of our elderly residents. I am incredibly proud of these young people, as well as the schools, colleges, and organizations that made this initiative possible. Their efforts demonstrate the compassion and commitment that define our community.” The 15th Annual Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up was a collaboration between the Oneida County Youth Bureau, the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care, and local colleges, school districts, and youth organizations. Volunteers raked and collected leaves, swept porches, sidewalks, and driveways, and brought light refuse to the curb at the homes of seniors throughout the county. Volunteers participated from Utica University baseball, softball, track & field and men’s wrestling, as well as Theta Phi Alpha, Chi Beta Sigma and Kappa Delta Phi sororities, the Organization of Justice Studies and the Young Scholars program; Mohawk Valley Community College Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society; New Hartford High School boys varsity soccer and boys junior varsity football; T.R. Proctor High School Key Club and Art Club; Utica Academy of Science ; Clinton Middle School Student Council and National Junior Honor Society; Notre Dame National Honor Society, National Junior ROTC and varsity and modified football; Whitesboro Middle School ; New York Mills Student Council; Camden High School sports;  Vernon-Verona-Sherrill Interact Club; Sauquoit National Honor Society; Oriskany High School Key Club, Remsen High School National Honor Society; Waterville Student Council; St. Elizabeth College of Nursing ; Safe Schools Mohawk Valley ; Broadway Utica Youth Ambassador Program; Boy Scouts Troop 11 ; Tabernacle Baptist Church and the Michelle Kelly family . “With the outpouring of support given by our youth and the supportive number of youth volunteers represented, these kids see the big picture,” said Youth Bureau Director Kevin Green. “Compassion for those in need, caring enough to do the work, and bringing joy to others are three characteristics these 600 youth volunteers brought to Oneida County's senior citizen population.”   The 2025 Fall Clean-up took place on October 18-19. During the Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up this past April, 465 youth volunteers serviced the homes of more than 100 senior citizens throughout the county. The 2026 Intergenerational Spring Clean-Up is scheduled for April 18-19 and the 2026 Intergenerational Fall Clean-Up is scheduled for October 17-18. Any Oneida County colleges, school districts or youth organizations interested in volunteering should contact the Oneida County Youth Bureau at 315-798-5027. Any senior citizen interested in having their yard cleaned should contact the Oneida County Office for the Aging and Continuing Care at 315-798-5456.

ANNSVILLE, N.Y.  – Health officials have confirmed a case of rabies in a skunk found in the Town of Annsville. The animal was sent to the New York State Department of Health’s Wadsworth Center for testing on October 16, 2025, where it tested positive the same day. According to officials, two animals—a horse and a puppy—were exposed to the rabid skunk. Both animals were unvaccinated at the time of exposure. Local authorities are now working to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent the spread of the virus. Rabies is a deadly disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is primarily spread through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Health experts remind residents to keep pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date and to avoid contact with wild or stray animals acting unusually. Anyone who may have had contact with a skunk or other wild animals in the Annsville NY area is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or the local health department immediately. For more information about rabies prevention and what to do if you suspect exposure, visit the New York State Department of Health website or contact your local public health office.

October 19, 2025 - Press Release: The New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation at Poughkeepsie (BCI), in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Joint Terrorism Task Force (FBI-JTTF), announces the arrest of Christopher Moynihan , 34, of Clinton, New York, for Making a Terroristic Threat, a Class D felony. On October 18, 2025, the State Police were advised by the FBI-JTTF that Moynihan  had made threats to kill a member of Congress. Following a thorough investigation, Moynihan was arrested and arraigned before the Town of Clinton Court. He was remanded to the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center in lieu of $10,000 cash bail, a $30,000 bond, or an $80,000 partially secured bond. Moynihan  is scheduled to appear in court on October 23, 2025. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/clinton-man-arrested-making-terroristic-threats-toward-member-congress

Press Release On October 10, 2025, State Police arrested: Details: On June 12, 2025, Troopers received information reporting numerous animals that appeared neglected and in need of veterinary care on a property on State Route 40 in Whitehall, NY.  The investigation led to the executing of a search warrant on August 30, 2025, during which three animals (2 dogs, 1 cat) were found to be in poor physical condition and were seized. On September 27, 2025, due to the continued investigation 28 additional animals (8 dogs, 19 cats, and 1 canadian goose) were removed from the property due to poor physical and living conditions. The cats and dogs were turned over to the care of local veterinary offices. The canadian goose was released to the care of North Country Wild Care. All three individuals surrendered themselves to SP Granville for processing where they were each given and appearance ticket returnable to the Whitehall Town Court on October 27, 2025.  Arrest: Jessica L. Austin , 43 of Granville, NY for 22 counts of Torturing or injuring Animals/Failure to provide Sustenance- Agriculture & Markets Law- 353 A Christopher J. Mckinney , 43 of Granville for 24 counts of Torturing or injuring Animals/Failure to provide Sustenance- Agriculture & Markets Law- 353 A Charles W. Mckinney , 81 of Granville, NY for 4 counts of Torturing or injuring Animals/Failure to provide Sustenance- Agriculture & Markets Law- 353 A