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During a Call for Assistance, Sergeant Mario Stewart Allegedly Tased an Individual Seven Times While the Individual Was Restrained in Handcuffs and a Restraint Bag and Experiencing an Apparent Mental Health Emergency Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Christie M. Curtis, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging MARIO STEWART, a Sergeant with the Mount Vernon Police Department (“MVPD”), with using excessive force against an individual (the “Victim”) while in Mount Vernon, New York, in violation of the Victim’s rights under the United States Constitution. As alleged in the Indictment, during a call for assistance, STEWART, in the presence of six other MVPD officers, tased the Victim seven times in the span of approximately two minutes. For the duration of all seven taser deployments, the Victim lay on the ground, handcuffed with his hands behind his back and his legs secured in a restraint bag. STEWART surrendered to the FBI this morning and was presented this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy in White Plains federal court. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Karas. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Mario Stewart, a Sergeant with the Mount Vernon Police Department, was called to the scene to aid a person in emotional distress. Instead of providing aid, Stewart deployed his taser on the individual seven times in the span of roughly two minutes, while the individual was handcuffed and with his legs restrained and while several other MVPD officers were on scene to assist. Stewart’s alleged conduct not only betrayed his duty as an officer to protect those under his charge, but also violated the law. My Office is committed to protecting the constitutional rights of all New Yorkers, including those experiencing mental health crises, and to holding law enforcement officers accountable when they abuse their authority.” FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Christie M. Curtis said: “As alleged in today’s indictment, Stewart’s actions led him to inflict bodily harm upon his victim. Officers of the law are not above the law, and the FBI is committed to investigating any instances in which a federal crime has been committed.” According to the Indictment that was unsealed today in White Plains federal court:[1] On or about March 26, 2019, STEWART was employed as a Sergeant with the MVPD. STEWART was assigned to the MVPD’s Emergency Services Unit, which is responsible for, among other things, responding to individuals who are experiencing mental health crises. On that day, STEWART and six other MVPD officers received a call to assist the Victim in Mount Vernon, New York, as the Victim was experiencing a mental health crisis. At the scene, STEWART and the other MVPD officers restrained the Victim, handcuffing his hands behind his back and securing his legs in a restraint bag in preparation to transport the Victim for medical assistance. When the MVPD officers were unable to pull the restraint bag over the Victim’s chest because the Victim was holding onto one of the bag’s straps, STEWART directed the Victim to release the strap. STEWART then proceeded to tase the Victim seven times in the span of approximately two minutes. While STEWART deployed his taser all seven times, the Victim remained laying on the ground, handcuffed with his hands behind his back and his legs secured in the restraint bag. STEWART’s actions caused bodily injury to the Victim. * * * STEWART, 44, of Brooklyn, New York, is charged with one count of deprivation of rights under color of law, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the FBI. Mr. Williams also thanked the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Criminal Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gillian Grossman and Jared Hoffman are in charge of the prosecution. The charge contained in the Indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation. U.S. v. Stewart Indictment ContactNicholas Biase (212) 637-2600 Updated July 20, 2023

July 18, 2023 Inaugural Shipment Includes Wines from World-Renowned Finger Lakes Region Partnership Represents Special Relationship Between New York and Puerto Rico and Growing Demand for New York State Wines Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an inaugural partnership that enables New York State wines to be sold in Puerto Rico for the very first time. The New York State Office of Trade and Tourism, distributor Serrallés Imports, and the legendary Steuben County-based Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery are making a selection of wines produced in the Finger Lakes region available in Puerto Rico for local purchase. This collaboration marks the first-ever introduction of New York wines into the growing Puerto Rico wine market and uncorks a new era of wine connoisseurship and cultural exchange. The new partnership was toasted today at a wine-tasting launch at the New York State Office of Trade and Tourism in San Juan, attended by the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets Commissioner Richard Ball. "Puerto Rico has shared so much of its culture, vibrancy, and creativity with New York, and our history and future are intrinsically intertwined," Governor Hochul said. "Now Puerto Rico will be able to enjoy what wine lovers across the world have long known - the best wines are made in New York. Cheers to this fantastic collaboration!" Stemming from a shared vision of New York State Office of Trade and Tourism and Serrallés Imports, one of Puerto Rico's largest distributors, the State recognized the immense potential for promoting and celebrating New York wines. Partnering with Serrallés and Dr. Konstantin Frank, New York's most awarded winery, the New York State Office of Trade and Tourism was able to work through export requirements to bring Dr. Frank's wines into the market, and leverage Serrallés Imports extensive distribution network and wine and spirits industry expertise to ensure that New York-made wines are available to consumers and connoisseurs across Puerto Rico. The winery will be providing its Riesling varieties and Rosé for export. The State hopes to expand the selection of wines and wineries participating in this initiative in the future. Empire State Development President CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "New York State wines are of the highest caliber in the world and I'm proud to join Governor Hochul in celebrating the export of Finger Lakes vintages to Puerto Rico for the first time. Thanks to the hard work of ESD's Office of Trade and Tourism, this partnership supports local production and will continue to enrich the vibrant, longstanding cultural exchange between New York and Puerto Rico, benefitting both our communities and economy." Read the full press release here.

Exciting news! The much-anticipated Purely Posh consignment shop has finally opened its doors today. Situated at 5366 Route 5 Vernon NY, (previously known as The Town & Country), Purely Posh offers a wide range of high-quality items, including gently used women's and men's fashions, shoes, jewelry, and home decor. With a dedicated mission to cater to its discerning customers, Purely Posh guarantees a perfect mix of retail fashion accessories and stunning footwear. Not only that, but they also showcase a stunning array of home decor that will undoubtedly elevate your home's ambiance. From new to old, Purely Posh has got it all covered. You can visit them from Tuesday to Friday, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please note that they are closed on Sundays and Mondays. https://purelyposhconsignmentshop.com/ Source: CNY Online Interview

According to Oneida County Sheriff, Robert Maciol; On July 17, 2023, at 833 AM, the Oneida County 911 center received a call for a reported two-car motor vehicle accident with entrapment in the Town of Vernon. At 837 AM, Deputies arrived at Route 365 near 9th Street W and located a serious two-car personal injury motor vehicle accident. Upon arrival, Deputies determined that Dakota Little (27) of Oneida, NY was operating a blue 2009 Toyota Corolla North on Route 365. Due to failure to keep right, Little’s vehicle crossed the yellow double-solid center lines into the southbound lane of traffic and struck a white 2022 GMC 3500 pick-up truck traveling South on Route 365 operated by Robert Wilson (32) of Oneida, NY causing heavy front-end damage to both vehicles. Wilson complained of arm pain and was transported to Oneida Hospital along with his 9-year-old passenger, whose name will not be released due to age, who complained of neck pain. Little was pronounced deceased on the scene by medical personnel. Route 365 was temporarily closed from Prospect St to E 2nd Street by NYSDOT, but has been reopened for traffic. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office Road Patrol, Criminal Investigations Unit, and Forensic Investigations Unit were assisted on the scene by the Oneida Castle Fire Department, Verona Fire Department, Vineall Ambulance, New York State DOT, and the New York State Police Source: Oneida County Sheriff's Office

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Dennis J. Nelson, age 51, was sentenced today to 84 months in prison for mailing threat letters in 2018 and 2019 to a federal judge and two members of Congress while incarcerated in State of New York correctional facilities. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Janeen DiGuiseppi, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. On March 24, 2023, Nelson pled guilty to three counts of mailing threat letters and admitted that on August 1, 2018, while incarcerated at a New York State correctional facility, he mailed a threat letter to the chambers of Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy in Binghamton, New York, threatening to kill Judge McAvoy and those at the federal courthouse with a bomb. Nelson admitted that on July 15, 2019, while incarcerated at a New York State correctional facility, he mailed a threat letter to an office of Congressman Anthony Brindisi, containing a threat to kill Representative Brindisi, and mailed a threat letter to an office of United States Senator Charles Schumer, containing a threat to kill Senator Schumer. Senior United States District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr., of the Western District of New York, also sentenced Nelson to serve a term of supervised release of 3 years to follow incarceration. The FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision’s Office of Special Investigations (NYS DOCCS OSI), and the United States Capitol Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl G. Eurenius prosecuted the case. Source: www.justice.gov/

VIENNA — County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today announced that nearly 1,000 homes and 2,600 residents will be receiving high-speed internet service as part of $2 million in county broadband expansion projects. “We are committed to bridging the gaps that became evident during the pandemic,” Picente said. “Lack of high-speed internet creates an inequity that puts students at a disadvantage, leaves businesses unable to modernize and limits growth in communities. Broadband is something everyone should have access to and this is a step toward making that a reality for everyone in Oneida County.” The broadband expansion projects will span 10 areas, including six townships: Forestport, Ava, Boonville, Remsen, Augusta and Vienna. Two Internet service providers have been chosen through an RFP process: Adirondack Techs (nine project areas) and Charter (one area). The $1,950,967 capital program also includes $150,000 in ISP investment, and nine of the 10 projects include a 2% revenue share to offset a percentage of the cost to the county. Through an extensive mapping analysis between Oneida and Herkimer counties, Tug Hill Commission and Mohawk Valley Economic Development District, the Oneida County Department of Planning identified 2,079 Oneida County homes in approximately 32 project areas with clusters of 20 or more homes. This first step will reach 46% of the unserved homes identified. Oneida County offered municipalities an opportunity to partner financially and leverage the funding to expand coverage even further in their towns. Picente made the expansion projects announcement in the Town of Vienna, which was the only one to take advantage of that offer and led to the town securing $226,761 to service 111 homes. “Since becoming Town Supervisor, the expansion of internet service is something I hear about most often from residents and was an issue I have looked to tackle since day one,” said Vienna Town Supervisor Michael M. Davis Sr. “I thank County Executive Picente for his commitment to this expansion and I look forward to working with the Department of Planning to bring internet access to over 100 homes in Vienna.” Picente utilized American Rescue Act funding to expand high speed internet service to underserved areas in Oneida County. That federal funding is required to be allocated by 2024 and spent by 2026. It must be used on projects, initiatives or programs that address issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Today’s announcement about the expansion of increased broadband access in Vienna is a welcomed and awaited one,” said County Legislator Norman Leach, R-3. “Broadband service is critically important in today’s society. Students need it for their schoolwork. Adults need it to stay in touch with co-workers when out of the office or for telecommuting. And people of all ages need it for telemedicine.” “I am pleased to support these efforts to bring high-speed internet connectivity to underserved parts of rural Oneida County like Ava, Boonville, Forestport and Remsen,” said County Legislator Steven R. Boucher, R-6. “This investment in broadband infrastructure is a necessity for my constituents and not a luxury.” “The lack of reliable, high-speed internet can be a major hindrance on the quality of life of residents,” said County Legislator Colin Idzi, R-2. “That’s why I am pleased that broadband is being expanded to help residents in rural areas like Augusta meet important daily needs such as paying bills, telehealth appointments, shopping, job searches and applications, education and so much more." Sources: https://ocgov.net

Handgun and Drugs Recovered Following Police Chase on Syracuse's South Side On Monday, July 10th, at approximately 9:00 p.m., Officers Mulroy and Bush observed a man acting suspiciously and trying to hide his belongings from their view. The man was loitering outside of a gas station on South Salina Street before entering a vehicle. The vehicle took off at a high rate of speed, heading west on Martin Luther King Boulevard. During the search for the vehicle, Officers found the suspect walking east on Martin Luther King Boulevard, heading towards South Salina Street. When the Officers got out of their patrol car, the man took off, jumping over fences before dumping his bag of belongings. Inside the bag, Officers found a loaded 9mm Taurus Millennium G2 handgun, several small bags of synthetic cannabinoids, and several pills of Oxycodone. After consulting with several different Officers and members of the Gang Violence Task Force, as well as using the gas stations security footage, a suspect was identified as 20-year-old Sharrieff Bradley. Bradley was arrested on Tuesday, July 11th. He was booked into the Onondaga County Justice Center. Bradley is charged with one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in Second Degree, one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree, one count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree. We would like to thank our Officers and Detectives who helped arrest this individual. Thanks to their efforts, Syracuse Police were able to take another gun and drugs off of our City streets. https://www.facebook.com/SyracusePolice/posts/pfbid0VeGo9rvabwF1voxsLFoVJQMvW5gvDrrnJkJ7FhQeQbSBA6fZ5MddZYxpu65LdAMzl

On July 14, 2023, at 4:13 P.M., Troopers out of SP Niagara responded to a UTV collision in a grass field off Lockport Road in the town of Niagara. The investigation determined that a 2011 Can-Am UTV traveling south on a grassy path struck a small ditch causing the UTV to roll over. The unrestrained passenger, Veron J. Mt. Pleasant, 42 of Lewiston, NY was ejected and pronounced deceased at the scene by the Niagara County Coroner. This is still an active investigation. Source: www.nyspnews.com/fatal-utv-collision.html

Arrest Made In Karlianne Short Homicide Investigation. Timeline: July 4th 2023 at 10:04 P.M.: Syracuse Police Officers responded to the 2000 block of E. Fayette Street in regards to a shooting with injuries call. The 911 Center notified responding officers that a female had reportedly been shot. Upon arrival, Officers located a chaotic scene, but were initially unable to locate a victim. That victim, Karlianne Short (10/19/2005) had been picked up from the scene and transported to Crouse Hospital by private vehicle prior to police arrival. At the hospital it became apparent to medical personnel that Short had been shot at least one time in the torso. Despite every life saving effort, Short eventually succumbed to her injury and was pronounced deceased. July 4th 2023 - Present: An investigation was commenced by CID Homicide Unit Detectives, where numerous people were interviewed, and an extensive neighborhood and citywide canvass was conducted. In addition, several search warrants were executed, and evidence recovered was processed and thoroughly analyzed. As a result of the above efforts, a suspect was identified as Malcolm Barner (02/02/1995). July 14th 2023: Barner was taken into custody by SPD Homicide Unit Detectives at 511 S. State Street without incident. He was later lodged at the Onondaga County Justice Center, where he is being held pending his arraignment. In regards to this investigation, Malcolm Barner was charged with the following crimes: One count of Murder in the Second Degree and One count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree. This investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact CID at (315) 442-5222. Suspect Information 1. Malcolm Barner, 28, E. Syracuse

Air Quality Index Levels Forecast to Reach 'Unhealthy' Upstate Emergency Cell Phone Alerts Will Warn New Yorkers When Air Quality Index Exceeds 200 Threshold For 'Very Unhealthy' Air Hundreds of Thousands of N95-Style Masks Available to the Public Statewide Hospitals Should Remain on Alert for Influx of Emergency Department Visits from Patients Experiencing Respiratory Issues Transit Authorities Statewide Utilizing Public Address Systems, Bus Headway Signs, Social Media, and Other Electronic Signage to Provide Air-Quality Related Safety Information Directly to Customers Governor Kathy Hochul today announced air quality health advisories are being issued for tomorrow, Monday, July 17 for the entire state as smoke from wildfires in Western Canada continues to negatively affect air quality across the region. The smoke is expected to cause the Air Quality Index to reach levels in Upstate communities that are 'Unhealthy for All' New Yorkers. The forecast for the Lower Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island is expected to reach 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.' "New Yorkers should once again prepare for smoke from the wildfires in Western Canada to impact our state's air quality this week," Governor Hochul said. "To help everyone stay informed and safe, we are activating emergency notifications on our roads and public transit systems and making masks available to counties for distribution. As forecasts continue to evolve, I encourage New Yorkers to stay up to date on the latest information and take the necessary precautions to protect yourselves and your loved ones." Behind today's storm system, winds are expected to turn from the south to the southwest and west, potentially ushering an expansive plume of Western Canada wildfire smoke into New York State overnight Sunday and into Monday. Forecast models currently predict elevated levels of smoke-enhanced fine particulate matter (PM2.5) will spread across Upstate New York. The chemical compounds found in wildfire smoke are also expected to enhance ozone production Downstate. Forecasts for Tuesday show smoke slowly clearing out of the state. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is closely watching forecast models and data to determine if smoke or ozone will rise to levels that would trigger issuing Air Quality Health Advisories on Tuesday. DEC and the State Department of Health (DOH) are issuing Air Quality Health Advisories for fine particulate levels that are unhealthy for any New Yorker due to smoke for the Western New York, Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York, Adirondacks, and Upper Hudson Valley regions. Air Quality Health Advisories are also being issued for the Lower Hudson Valley and New York City Metro regions, where smoke is forecast to reach levels that are "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups," as smoke moves in later in the day. In addition, an Air Quality Health Advisory for ozone that is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups is forecasted for the Long Island and New York City Metro regions. Emergency cell phone alerts will be used to warn New Yorkers if air quality index exceeds the 200 threshold for 'Very Unhealthy' air and sustained for longer than an hour. The alerts will be transmitted via the Wireless Emergency Alert system, managed by the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. At the Governor's direction, hundreds of thousands of high-quality N95-style masks have been made available to New Yorkers to address air quality impacts and will continue to be made available to counties at State-run stockpiles for further distribution to the public. Transit authorities across the state are utilizing public address systems, bus headway signs, social media, and other electronic signage to provide air-quality related safety information directly to customers, including: Metropolitan Transportation Authority Westchester County Bee-Line Broome County Transit Capital District Transportation Authority Central New York Regional Transportation Authority Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority The Governor encouraged New Yorkers to begin planning now for potential changes to outdoor activity on Monday, July 17, until conditions improve. Summer camp directors should know their local AQI forecast and alert level and follow DOH and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency AQI guidance, available here. DEC and DOH experts continue to monitor air quality, watching smoke and weather patterns closely. Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "With unhealthy air quality affecting most of the state, DEC encourages all New Yorkers to make informed decisions and follow guidance that can prevent health issues related to poor air quality due to smoke and elevated ozone levels. DEC experts and our partners across the state will continue to closely monitor forecasts for air quality and keep the public informed." New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, "New Yorkers who are especially sensitive to elevated levels of air pollutants, including children under 18, adults 65 and older, pregnant people and those with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease or asthma, should avoid spending time outdoors, if possible, in areas where the AQI is over 100. If you must go outdoors in areas that have air that is unhealthy or worse, consider wearing an N95 mask. Those who experience symptoms, or have symptoms that worsen, should consider consulting their health care provider." DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. To subscribe for advisories delivered by email, please click here. The New York State Department of Health is advising precautions as necessary. Steps for individuals to take to reduce risk, include: When AQI is greater than 100 ('Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups'), New Yorkers in vulnerable groups should avoid exertion outdoors and watch for symptoms when exposed to the outdoors. Vulnerable individuals include those with cardiovascular disease (e.g., congestive heart failure, history of prior heart attack) or lung disease (e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), as well as children under 18, adults 65 and older, and pregnant people. When AQI is greater than 150 ('Unhealthy'), all New Yorkers should avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and those in vulnerable groups should avoid exposure to the outdoors, especially pregnant individuals who may become short of breath more easily. In addition, some employees who are vulnerable should work indoors and camp directors should know their local AQI forecast and alert level and follow AQI guidance. When AQI is greater than 200 ('Very Unhealthy'), vulnerable groups should avoid all physical activity outdoors, and reschedule or move activities indoors. All others should avoid long or intense outdoor activities. When AQI is greater than 300 ('Hazardous'), all New Yorkers should avoid outdoor physical activities. For people who spend time outdoors, when air quality is unhealthy, wearing a well-fitting face mask is recommended. A N95 or KN95 will work best. More information about New York State Air Quality forecast is available here. To check your location's current air quality, go to www.airnow.gov. Sources:https://www.governor.ny.gov

***Double Shooting- 1600 Block of Elm Street- Utica*** Early Sunday morning at around 12:53 am, Utica Police responded to St. Elizabeth's Hospital for a patient that walked into the emergency room with a gunshot wound to his back. Shortly thereafter a second patient came to the same emergency room with a grazing gunshot wound to his arm. Both teenage victims were uncooperative with police and law enforcement later learned about that the shootings occurred outside a house party at 1656 Elm Street. Several potential witnesses were located- all were also uncooperative and refused to provide any information about the shootings. The 17-year-old victim with a gunshot wound to his back is currently in critical condition. The investigation has been assigned to the Utica Police Department Major Crimes Unit and we are asking that anyone with information can contact them at (315) 223-3556 or you can submit a 100% anonymous tip online through Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers at www.mohawkvalleycrimestoppers.com, by calling 1-866-730-8477 (TIPS), or by using the P3 Tips mobile app. Source: Utica Police

PRESS RELEASE On July 13, 2023, State Police of Granville arrested Ernie C. Dalaba, 36, of Hampton, NY, for Unlawful Imprisonment in the first degree, Criminal Mischief in the third degree, two counts of Menacing in the second degree, and two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the fourth degree. On July 13, 2023, at about 11:22 a.m. Troopers received a report of a domestic dispute that occurred earlier that morning in a Hampton home. The investigation determined Dalaba and the victim were in a physical altercation. During the incident, Dalaba reportedly brandished a knife and multiple firearms, held the victim against their will, and damaged property. the victim was able to eventually flee to safety after a short period of time, uninjured. Dalaba was arrested at his home and transported to SP Granville for processing. He was then transported to the Washington County Correctional Facility to await arraignment.