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VERONA, N.Y. (Feb. 27, 2026)  — A 30-year-old Verona man has been arrested following a domestic incident investigation that led authorities to discover multiple illegal firearms and resulted in several felony and misdemeanor charges, according to Robert Maciol, Sheriff of Oneida County Sheriff's Office. Domestic Call Leads to Investigation On February 26, 2026, Road Patrol Deputies were dispatched by the Oneida County Emergency Services 911 Center to a residence in the Town of Verona for a reported domestic incident. Authorities said that prior to deputies arriving at the scene, the suspect had reportedly left the residence in a vehicle. While deputies were responding, the suspect’s vehicle was located after it had gone off the roadway. As that incident was being investigated, additional deputies responded to the residence to continue investigating the domestic complaint. According to the Sheriff’s Office, an argument had reportedly ensued between the suspect and the victim over property. During the dispute, the suspect allegedly took the victim’s cell phone while the victim was attempting to call 911 for police assistance. Investigators said the victim then obtained a second phone and retreated to a bedroom to again call 911. While the victim was inside the bedroom and on the phone with emergency dispatchers, the suspect allegedly began damaging the bedroom door in an attempt to gain entry. Upon realizing the victim was speaking with 911, the suspect reportedly left the residence in a vehicle. Illegal Firearms Discovered While investigating the domestic incident, deputies located several illegal firearms and ammunition magazines inside the residence. The Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Unit assisted with the ongoing investigation. Arrest and Charges At the conclusion of the investigation, authorities arrested Nasear L. Walker, 30, of Verona , charging him with: Driving While Intoxicated (Misdemeanor) Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree (Class A Misdemeanor, 2 counts) Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Class D Felony, 5 counts) Criminal Possession of a Firearm (Class E Felony, 3 counts) Walker was transported to the Oneida County Correctional Facility to await arraignment in CAP Court. Court Appearance and Bail On February 27, 2026, Walker appeared in CAP Court, where he was remanded to the correctional facility on bail set at: $1,500 cash or credit card $5,000 insurance company bail bond $14,900 partially secured appearance bond with a 10% deposit Authorities confirmed that Walker was able to post bail and has since been released from custody. An Order of Protection was issued on behalf of the victim. The investigation remains ongoing.

February 25, 2026 On February 25, 2026, at approximately 11:36 a.m., officers from the Town of Vestal Police responded to a report of an individual experiencing a mental health crisis in the area of 581 Sequoia Lane. Upon arrival, officers encountered an individual who was in possession of a knife and threatening self-harm.   During the course of the interaction, officers made numerous requests for the individual to drop the knife.  The individual ignored commands and threw a television at officers. Officers continued to make repeated verbal commands and multiple attempts to de-escalate the situation.  The individual then threatened officers, raised the knife and advanced toward an officer. Despite the continued de-escalation efforts, shots were fired and the individual was struck. Officers immediately rendered medical aid until emergency medical personnel arrived.  The individual was transported to Wilson Medical Center.  No officers were injured during the incident. In the interest of transparency, the Town of Vestal Police Department has requested the New York State Police conduct an independent investigation into the circumstance surrounding the shooting. There is no ongoing threat to the public at this time. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

February 26, 2026 MOREAU, N.Y. — The New York State Police announced the arrest of a Moreau man following an arson investigation stemming from a garage fire reported in late 2024. According to a State Police press release, troopers from Wilton arrested **Brian A. Lemery**, 69, of Moreau on February 23, 2026. Lemery has been charged with arson in the third degree, a Class C felony; burglary in the third degree, a Class D felony; and criminal mischief in the second degree, also a Class D felony. The charges stem from an incident reported on December 3, 2024, when troopers responded to a garage fire on Jackson Road in Moreau. Following an investigation, State Police determined that Lemery allegedly entered the garage without permission and intentionally set the fire, causing more than $1,500 in damage to the structure. Lemery was arrested at his residence and transported to State Police Wilton for processing. He was later arraigned in Saratoga County Court, where he was released under the supervision of the Saratoga County Probation Department. The investigation remains closed following the arrest, according to State Police. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-moreau-man-following-arson-investigation

Press Release On February 24, 2026, at approximately 12:30 p.m., the New York State Police were notified of a missing hiker on the Crane Pond Trail in the town of Schroon. An investigation determined that Theodore S. Troth, age 51, of The Villages, FL, began renting a cabin at Rowe’s Adirondack Cabins, located on State Route 9 in the town of Schroon, on January 25, 2026. On February 19, 2026, Troth was last seen leaving the cabin to go hiking on the Crane Pond Trail. On February 24, 2026, the cabin owner became concerned when Troth failed to check out as scheduled. After going to the cabin and discovering Troth was not present, the owner notified authorities. A coordinated search effort was established involving the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Forest Rangers, and State Police. State Police deployed K-9 and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) units, while Forest Rangers utilized snowmobiles to assist in covering the terrain. At approximately 6:24 p.m. on February 24, 2026, Forest Rangers located Troth at the south end of Oxshoe Pond, accessible from the Crane Pond Trailhead. Troth was found deceased, and the scene showed no signs of foul play. The Essex County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene and requested the removal of the body. Troth was transported to Glens Falls Hospital for an autopsy. The date and time of the autopsy are to be determined. This investigation remains ongoing.

Update: On February 25, 2026, at approximately 6:00 a.m., a Trooper from SP Homer (Interstate) was dispatched to a report of multiple vehicles involved in a crash on Interstate 81 northbound near exit 52 in the city of Cortland. An investigation determined that at some point, an unknown vehicle struck a guardrail, causing a portion of it to lay across the roadway.  The crash was not reported, and the operator did not remain on scene. Four operators in four separate vehicles subsequently struck the guiderail that was lying in the roadway, resulting in damage to their vehicles.  No injuries were reported. Weather is believed to be a contributing factor.  Troopers from SP Homer and SP Marathon and members of the Department of Transportation assisted with lane closures.    Update: Just after 7 a.m., the left lane on Interstate 81 north near exit 50 has reopened. Please continue to use caution in the area.   Original Press Release: Interstate 81 north near exit 50 (Polkville/McGraw) is shut down due to multiple crashes. Slick roadways are a contributing factor. No injuries have been reported as of 7 am.  Please avoid the area. Motorists planning to travel through Cortland County are urged to use extra caution and take it slow. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/update-multiple-crashes-81-north-slow-morning-commute

According to Robert Maciol, six local men have been arrested following a lengthy investigation into a violent assault that occurred in the Village of Clinton. On November 23, 2025, deputies with the Oneida County Sheriff's Office responded to Wynn Hospital to interview a victim who had been assaulted earlier that morning at an establishment on College Street. Deputies learned that at approximately 1:30 a.m., two men were inside the establishment when an altercation broke out. Authorities allege the two victims were punched and kicked by six individuals. Investigators say neither victim struck back during the incident. One of the victims sustained serious injuries and was admitted to the hospital, where he remained for several days. The second victim suffered facial injuries but did not immediately seek medical attention. Due to the severity of the injuries, the case was assigned to the Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Unit. After a three-month investigation, six individuals have now been charged in connection with the assault. Those Charged: Richard J. Delahunt, 22, of Marcy, NY Assault in the Third Degree (Class A Misdemeanor) Harassment in the Second Degree (Violation)Delahunt was processed and released on an appearance ticket. Stephan J. Dorozynski, 23, of Whitesboro, NY Gang Assault in the Second Degree (Class C Felony)He was processed, arraigned at CAP Court, and released on bail. Benjamin A. Pawlowski, 22, of Marcy, NY Gang Assault in the Second Degree (Class C Felony)He was processed, arraigned at CAP Court, and later released on bail. Edmund J. Lewandrowski III, 23, of Marcy, NY Gang Assault in the Second Degree (Class C Felony) Assault in the Third Degree (Class A Misdemeanor) Harassment in the Second Degree (Violation)He was processed, arraigned at CAP Court, and released on bail. Jordan J. Blum, 19, of Marcy, NY Gang Assault in the Second Degree (Class C Felony) Assault in the Third Degree (Class A Misdemeanor) Harassment in the Second Degree (Violation)He was processed, arraigned at CAP Court, and released on bail. Jason L. Millan Jr., 24, of Whitesboro, NY Assault in the Third Degree (Class A Misdemeanor) Harassment in the Second Degree (Violation)He was processed and released on an appearance ticket. The investigation was led by Investigator Mark R. Chrysler of the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Unit. Authorities noted that the charges are accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

According to Robert Maciol, a routine traffic stop in the Town of Sangerfield led to the arrest of a Hamilton man facing multiple charges, including a felony offense. On February 23, 2026, at approximately 10:18 a.m., a deputy assigned to the Oneida County Sheriff's Office Waterville Field Office conducted a traffic stop as part of a warrant investigation. The stop stemmed from a previous traffic incident that occurred in the Town of Paris in November 2025. Following the investigation, authorities identified the driver as Tyler Redmond of Hamilton. Deputies determined that Redmond was operating the vehicle with a suspended driver’s license. Records revealed 42 suspensions imposed on 14 separate dates. During the stop, deputies also discovered that Redmond was allegedly in possession of a controlled substance. Redmond was taken into custody and transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building for processing. He was charged with: Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the First Degree (Class E Felony) Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree Redmond was subsequently lodged at the Oneida County Correctional Facility pending arraignment. He was later released in accordance with current New York State procedures. The investigation remains part of ongoing enforcement efforts by the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office to address repeat traffic violations and related criminal activity throughout the county.

February 19, 2026 Lewis County, NY The New York State Police announced the arrest of two individuals following a criminal investigation into the death of a Lewis County woman. According to state police at Watertown and Lowville, troopers responded on October 22, 2025, at approximately 6:30 p.m. to a report of an unresponsive female found on a picnic table bench at a park along Otter Creek Road in the town of Glenfield. The woman was later identified as Ariel Marengo, 35, of Castorland. Authorities said there were no immediate visible signs of trauma at the scene; however, the circumstances surrounding Marengo’s death were deemed suspicious, prompting the initiation of a criminal investigation. Investigators determined that prior to her death, Marengo had been inside a vehicle parked at the Glenfield residence of Anthony R. Diangelo III. At the time, Diangelo and Kyle T. Simpson were reportedly inside the home. Simpson was identified as an acquaintance of the decedent. Further investigation revealed that Marengo’s body was later moved and left at the park on Otter Creek Road. As a result of the investigation, state police arrested both men. Simpson, 31, of Lowville, was charged with Concealment of a Human Corpse, a Class E felony; Tampering with Physical Evidence, a Class E felony; Obstruction of Governmental Administration; Resisting Arrest; and Removal of a Body Without a Permit in violation of Public Health Law §4144, an unclassified misdemeanor. He was arraigned in the Town of Watson Court and remanded without bail. Diangelo, 31, of Glenfield, was charged with Concealment of a Human Corpse, a Class E felony; Tampering with Physical Evidence, a Class E felony; and Removal of a Body Without a Permit under Public Health Law §4144. He was taken into custody and is pending arraignment in Lewis County CAP Court. Bail status will be determined following arraignment. State police said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are possible. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-two-lewis-county-death-investigation

February 23, 2026 Winthrop, NY The New York State Police have charged a Winthrop man in connection with the theft of an excavator from a St. Lawrence County worksite. State police announced that on February 20, 2026, troopers charged Darin R. Collins, 46, of Winthrop, with Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a felony offense involving property valued in excess of $3,000. According to investigators, troopers responded on October 9, 2025, at approximately 6:44 p.m. to County Route 48 in the town of Stockholm following a report of a stolen excavator. The investigation determined that a Komatsu excavator had been taken from a worksite along County Route 48. The machine was equipped with a GPS tracking system, which later lost connection that evening. The excavator was eventually located on the Canadian portion of the Akwesasne Indian Reservation. Troopers coordinated with Tribal Police as part of the cross-jurisdictional investigation. Further investigation determined that Collins was responsible for stealing the excavator and abandoning it in Snye, Quebec, authorities said. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued for Collins. He was later located, taken into custody, and transported to SP Massena for processing. Collins was arraigned in the Town of Louisville Court and remanded to the St. Lawrence County Jail without bail. Contact: Trooper Brandi M. Ashley Troop B Public Information Officer

February 19, 2026 Albany, NY The New York State Police announced Thursday the termination of Investigator Michael O'Flaherty after he pleaded guilty to federal charges of making false statements to federal investigators. According to state police officials, O'Flaherty was assigned to Troop K and was placed on administrative duties at the outset of the federal investigation in the fall of 2022. He was subsequently suspended following his arrest in November 2024. On February 19, 2026, his employment with the agency was formally terminated. The federal case was prosecuted by the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. State police officials said the agency fully cooperated with federal authorities from the beginning of the investigation, working closely with both the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The New York State Police Professional Standards Bureau coordinated with federal partners throughout the matter. “Accountability is not optional within this organization; it is foundational,” the agency stated. In a statement released Thursday, New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James strongly condemned O'Flaherty’s actions. “Michael O'Flaherty's actions are a betrayal of the public trust and the oath he took as a member of the New York State Police,” James said. “Every member of our agency is entrusted with extraordinary responsibility. When someone abuses that responsibility, it undermines the confidence our communities place in us and compromises the work of the dedicated professionals who serve honorably every day.” James emphasized that misconduct will not be tolerated within the ranks of the agency. “We will not tolerate conduct that violates the law, our policies or ethical standards. The vast majority of our members carry out their duties with integrity, courage, and professionalism. When one individual fails to meet those standards, we act decisively, and we hold them accountable,” he said.“I remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism to ensure the trust of the communities we serve.” Additional details regarding the federal case are available through the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. Contact: Mr. Beau DuffyExecutive Director of Public Information

Press Release The New York State Police are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the operator and/or owner of a pickup truck in connection with an ongoing investigation at Empire State Mines located on Pumohouse Road in the town of Fowler. The vehicle is described as an older model Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck. It has a red cab and front end with a darker colored (green or gray) bed and rear quarter panels. The truck is equipped with black wheels, a chrome front bumper, chrome running boards/side steps, and a light-colored toolbox mounted in the bed. Anyone with information regarding this vehicle or its operator is asked to contact the New York State Police at 315-379-0012.  Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/new-york-state-police-seek-publics-assistance-identifying-vehicle

Update: February 17, 2026: The suspect involved in the trooper-involved shooting in the town of Rochester is identified as Benjamin Scism, 33, of Accord, NY. He remains in critical condition at Westchester Medical Center. Scism is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 4 th  degree and menacing 2 nd  degree, both class A misdemeanors. The State Police members involved are identified below. All are assigned to Troop F: --Trooper Stephen A. Sawyer --Trooper Jeremy D. Pekoff --Trooper Ariel B. Grant The investigation into the incident is ongoing.  Original press release, February 16, 2026: On February 16, 2026, at about 12:42 p.m., New York State Troopers from SP Ellenville responded to a report of a male subject holding a handgun while walking southbound on Queens Highway toward State Route 209 in the town of Rochester. Upon arrival, Troopers observed an individual matching the description provided by the caller to Ulster County 911. Troopers issued multiple commands for the subject to show his hands; however, the individual refused to comply and subsequently displayed what appeared to be a handgun. At that point, Troopers discharged their duty weapons, striking the subject. Troopers immediately rendered medical aid and requested emergency medical services. The individual was transported from the scene by Kerhonkson-Accord Rescue Ambulance and was subsequently airlifted to Westchester Medical Center, where he is listed in critical but stable condition. The preliminary investigation has revealed that the handgun possessed by the individual, which is pictured above, was a pellet gun. The names of those involved are being withheld at this time, but will be released with the next update. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the New York State Police SP Ellenville Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 845-344-5300 Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/update-state-police-investigate-trooper-involved-shooting-ulster-county