Chemung County Man Facing Drug Charges In Steuben Co

A Pine City man was arrested last night over in Canisteo.  Canisteo Village Police Chief Kyle Amidon reports that Zachary Savage, 24, is said to have fled on foot, when Canisteo Police pulled him over, Thursday night.  Police say Savage was quickly located in a nearby backyard, and refused to cooperate with law enforcement.  The Canisteo Police Chief also states that Savage attempted to dispose of the drugs on him, but was allegedly found to be in possession of crack cocaine, methamphetamines and a large amount of cash.  State Police and the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office assisted in this case. 
 

State Budget Update 

A tentative deal has been worked out, on the budget by Governor hochul and the state senate and assembly leaders…what we know so far is that minimum wage will be going up to 16 dollars an hour in this part of the state…the governor also says, on bail reform, that judges will have the ability to hold suspects.  There have not been any Republican lawmaker statements yet, except that Corning Republican Assemblyman Phil Palmesano says, the GOP members of the state legislature have not seen the budget yet. 

On The Agenda For Monday Morning In Bath

The Steuben County Legislature’s Public Safety Committee meets Monday morning.  On the agenda, they’ll be talking about renewing some of the School Resource Officer Agreements. 

Another Assessment Meeting In Bath

Bath Town Hall is having a public informational meeting about the assessment.  That will be on May 3^rd, at the High School Auditorium at 7pm.

Sheriff Allard Reports Animal Cruelty Case In Woodhull

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that deputies charged a 38 year old Woodhull woman, following an investigation of reported dogs running at large and in need of sustenance and care.  It is alleged that she owned two dogs which were not receiving adequate food or care.  She was issued an appearance ticket.  Sheriff Allard says, if you know of a domestic animal that is being maltreated and in need of aid, please report it to your local law enforcement or call 9-1-1.

O'Mara: Budget Needs To Be Debated Because Of Policy

State Senator Tom O’Mara and other Senate Republicans want the public to know, that Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul might skip the usual budget process, and pass the budget, without any debate.  O’Mara and the other GOP state lawmakers say, with all the policy items in this year’s budget, such as new rules about natural gas and electric cars, this budget should be up for discussion and debate.

Schumer: House GOP Plan Will Cost Upstate Families

The Auburn Pub reports, that U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer says, Washington Republicans want to make cuts which would result in average upstate families losing $400 in home heating assistance money. 

Early Morning Fire On Route 10 In Bath  

From The Bath Volunteer Fire Dept:   

Just after midnight this morning The Bath Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for a report of a structure fire at 6754 County Route 10 in the Town of Bath. The tenant of the apartment had escaped and gone to a neighbor to report his apartment was on fire and had seen flames and a lot of smoke. The neighbor then reported the fire to 911.  1st Assistant Chief Mike Fiordo was the first to arrive on scene to observe a steady stream of smoke coming from a fist floor garage window. He then called for mutual aid from the Bath VA Fire Department to the scene and Hammondsport Fire was called to standby at the Bath VA station. Assistant chiefs David Dowdle and Corey Zydanowicz arrived next looking for the fire and found a lot of heat coming from the lower floor. The interior attack crews were able to make access and found the fire and were quickly able to put it out before it extended into the second floor of the apartment.  The tenant was treated by the Bath Volunteer Ambulance Corps and then transported by them and AMR

Advanced Life Support of Corning to Robert Packard Hospital in Sayre, PA for injuries he had sustained. His condition is unknown at this time.  The Steuben County Fire Investigation Team was called to the scene to determine the cause of the fire which has not been yet been declared. All units were cleared at 02:55am.

Name Of Prattsburgh Woman That Died In Canoe Capsizing Incident On Saturday Evening In Big Flats, Has Been Released

New York State Troopers say it was 22 year old Susanna Garber of Prattsburgh, who died in the Saturday canoe accident.  State Police say what happened was that a group of young adults were going down the Chemung River in kayaks and canoes.  The canoe with Susana and Rebecca in it, struck a downed tree causing the canoe to capsize.  Rebecca was able to free herself and get to shore but Susanna became trapped underneath the canoe.  When rescue teams were able to dislodge the canoe from the tree, Susanna Garber was found underneath the canoe, and it was determined that she had died.  Numerous fire departments and the Chemung County Sheriff’s Department assisted at the scene.    

Names Of I86 Fatal Accident Victims, Have Been Released

From State Police:  On April 23, 2023 at approximately 6:44 p.m., troopers from SP Horseheads and members of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation responded to a two-vehicle-crash on I86 westbound between exits 49 and 50. Two females were pronounced deceased at the scene. 

An investigation revealed that Eduard Edelshteyn, age 76 of Brooklyn, NY was traveling west when he crossed over two lanes of traffic. His vehicle subsequently struck a disabled tractor trailer that was parked off the roadway on the north shoulder. Two passengers of the vehicle, Larissa Abassoba, age 72, Brooklyn, NY  and Kamale Aliyeva, age 58, visiting US from overseas were pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Both Edelshteyn and a third passenger, Alla Fedosova, age 56 of Brooklyn, NY were transported to Robert Packer Hospital for treatment.   The operator of the tractor trailer, Claudio L. Castanheira, age 65 of Fort Lauderdale, FL suffered no injuries. 

Avoca Man And A Hammondsport Man Facing Burglary And Weapons Charges, And Other Charges As Well

State Police report that Adam Hosmer, 34, Avoca is charged with possession of burglary tools, 3^rd degree criminal possession of stolen property, resisting arrest, 2^nd degree bail jumping, and 3^rd and 4^th degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Troopers also report that John Janelli, 57, Hammondsport is charged with possession of burglary tools, criminal possession of stolen property, 3^rd degree criminal possession of a weapon and 1^st degree falsifying business records.  Both Hosmer and Janelli are being held without bail in Steuben County Jail.   State Police say that more information will be released sometime soon.  

Hammondsport School Budget News

The Hammondsport Board of Education is having a public hearing on their upcoming budget.  That will be Tuesday, May 2, at 600pm, inside the High School Library. 

Langworthy, Gillibrand, And Kevin McCarthy

Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy says The Limit, Save,Grow Act, introduced by Speaker Kevin McCarthy, will raise the debt ceiling while helping save American taxpayers $4.5 trillion over the next decade. Langworthy also says, it is expected to pass the House this week.   In a somewhat related story, Democrat U.S. Senator Kirsten Gilibrand says under McCarthy’s debt ceiling plan, Republicans would make budget cuts to V.A.  The senator says, she won’t let this happen.  Wvin has reached out to Congressman Langworthy's Office for a response to what Sen Gilibrand has said about the GOP wanting to cut the VA's budget.  As soon as we hear back from Langworthy's office, we will post his reply. 

Campbell Town Board Postpones Tonight's Meeting 

The Campbell Town Board has been working on possibly changing a local law for zoning, for solar.  They were going to meet tonight at the Campbell Town Hall, but that meeting has been postponed.  The Campbell Town Board says they want to ensure that they have all of the changes and suggested changes included in the new Law before it is presented to the public.  The board did not give a day and time, as to when the meeting will be held.

Double Fatal Accident Sunday Night On I-86 In Big Flats

From State Police - On April 23, 2023 at approximately 6:44 p.m., troopers from SP Horseheads and members of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation responded to a two-vehicle-crash on I86 westbound between exits 49 and 50. Two females were pronounced deceased at the scene.   An investigation revealed that Eduard Edelshteyn, age 76 of Brooklyn, NY was traveling west when he crossed over two lanes of traffic. His vehicle subsequently struck a disabled tractor trailer that was parked off the roadway on the north shoulder. Two passengers of the vehicle, a 72-year-old female and a 58-year-old female were pronounced deceased at the scene. They are not being identified at this time because next of kin have not been notified.   Both Edelshteyn and a third passenger, Alla Fedosova, age 56 of Brooklyn, NY were transported to Robert Packer Hospital for treatment.  The operator of the tractor trailer, Claudio L. Castanheira, age 65 of Fort Lauderdale, FL suffered no injuries. 

Saturday Evening Drowning In Big Flats

Schumer And Gillibrand And Lithium-Ion Batteries In Bikes

Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand are introducing legislation to regulate the lithium-ion batteries coming in from China.  The senators say, the batteries have been causing fires, and in particular, e-bike battery fires.  CBS Radio News says that the bill would require the Consumer Product Safety Commission to set a safety standard for e-bike and e-scooter batteries.  That’s so regulators can crack down on companies that fall short of those standards.

Bath Police: Wild Chase Last Night In Bath 

From Bath Village Police Chief Colin Taft: On 04/20/2023, at approximately 7 PM, officers with the Village of Bath Police Department responded to 3 E William St. apt 304, to conduct an investigation. While doing so, officers encountered Derrick A. Mack-Vasquez, age 29, hid between the toilet and a wall, and determined him to be inside the residence in the presence of the protected party of an active stay away order of
protection.  Mack- Vasquez was advised that he was under arrest and proceeded to resist officers' lawful orders as
they attempted to take him into custody, causing officers to have to physically assist him out of his hiding space.  While in custody, Mack-Vasquez suffered a medical event and was immediately released from custody and turned over to medical agencies for medical care.  On 04/20/2023 at approximately 9:45 PM, officers were notified that Mack-Vasquez had just fled Ira Davenport Emergency Room on foot, prior to being discharged, in an attempt to evade capture on his
pending felony charges. Mack-Vasquez was located a short time later, underneath brush in the woods, attempting to hide from law enforcement, and was taken into custody with assistance from NYSP and SCSO.
Mack-Vasquez was provided medical treatment and was then processed on one count of Criminal Contempt in the first degree, a Class E felony, and one count of Resisting Arrest, a Class A misdemeanor. Mack-Vasquez was transported to Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment.  Mack-Vasquez has been arrested 8 times since July 2022 by Bath PD, including occasions of escaping arrest and assaulting a police officer

Accused Assistant Principal Is Returning To Work

The Hornell School Board put out a statement last night about former Hornell High School Assistant Principal Eli Marcus.  In June 2022, Marcus was charged with 10 counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  In February, Steuben County Judge Phil Roche dismissed the case against Marcus.  So in last night’s Hornell School Board statement, officials stated that with the criminal charges having been dismissed, and with Mr. Marcus also having been cleared by an independent investigator retained by the District, he will be returning to work within the Hornell City School District Central Office as a technology administrator, a position that is currently vacant. 

Western NY School Had A Lockout On Thursday

Over in Allegany County, the Bolivar-Richburg Central School District had a lockout yesterday, the school put out a statement saying that they had a report about the possibility of an attempt to remove a student from schools, by a person being described as a non-custodial party.  That person was reportedly known to the lawful guardian.  The Bolivar Richburg school district says they told troopers and Bolivar Police about this, and the school went into lockout mode.  The school officials also say, it turned out that there was no threat to their school system, but that in today’s world, with things as they are, the school has to take all such situations seriously.

Exams For Corrections Officers In Steuben County 

The Steuben County Sheriff’s Department is now offering tests for candidates who want to become corrections officers.  Interested?  Send an email to: personel@steubencountyny.gov  Pay is just under $45,000 a year.  

Bath Police Chief Thanks A Bath Police Officer And Sgt

Bath Police Chief Colin Taft is publicly thanking Sergeant Ruggles and Officer Brzezinski for their recent outstanding off duty actions.  The police chief says, Sergeant Ruggles, while driving home, saw a bank bag in the road. Ruggles stopped and opened the bag. Inside of the bag was $4500.00 cash. Ruggles was able to locate the owner and return it.  The Bath Police Chief also says that Officer Brzezinski was walking with a friend in Olean when the friend was struck from behind. Brzezinski was able to help the friend while at the same time help locate the driver of the vehicle.   Chief Taft says quote, “These two men are a great example of the awesome men and women that work for our Village of Bath Police Department.”

It's 420 Day - Troopers Want You To Drive Sober

New York State police announced this morning, that today, they are stepping up patrols and targeting drug-impaired driving during an enforcement and prevention campaign.  That’s because it’s April 20^th.  State Police remind drivers that driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, including cannabis, is not only dangerous, it is illegal in New York State.

One Dog Dies In A House Fire Yesterday In Wheeler 
There was a house fire yesterday in the town of Wheeler. According to the Bath Volunteer fire Department, no people were home at the time but they say, a family dog died in the fire, while another was taken to the vet.  Assistant Bath Fire Chief Hill says, somewhere under 1500 gallons of water was used to get the fire under control, and, there was heavy smoke and fire damage to the home.  Also, the fire appears to have started in the kitchen. 

Upcoming School Board/School Budget Voting Day

Voting for schools in Prattsburgh, Bath and Hammondsport will be May 16 from 12pm to 8pm that day.  In Hammondsport, they have one candidate running for school board:  Carrie Doyle is seeking re-election on the Hammondsport Board of Education.  In the Bath School District, Pam Cleveland is not going to run again, and that is after ten years on the board.    Brad Laverty is running for that seat on the Bath School Board.  As for Prattsburgh Central, there is one candidate running for the Prattsburgh Board of Ed, that’s Joe Castrechino. 

And The Next Top State Judge Will Be....

Governor Kathy Hochul has gotten her nominee for the New York State Court of Appeals, approved by the state senate.  Last night the State Senate Democrat Majority  confirmed Judge Rowan Wilson.  The governor says she’s looking forward to working with the new chief judge on issues of public safety and protecting new Yorkers.  Republican State Senator George Borrello says Judge Wilson is a progressive, who will legislate from the bench.     

Where Your Congressman Is Today

Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy and Buffalo Democrat Congressman Brian Higgins will be with family members of Flight 3407, the plane that crashed on February 12^th 2009 in Erie County.  That event will be this afternoon in the 2:00 hour in Washington DC, in front of the U.S. Capital.  Langworthy and Higgins will be there to urge Congress to protect the 1,500 hour training rule for first officer pilots of commercial airlines.  

Senator Chuck Schumer: On Helping Firefighters 

Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer says the Senate is moving forward on the Fire Grants and Safety Act that will help so many rural and suburban communities in America. Schumer notes that the Fire Grants and Safety Act will extend two important federal grant programs that firefighters rely on.

Some Noteworthy Road Work/Lane Closures 

The DOT’s 511 website says work is going on this week on I-86 at Exit 37 and they say that’s going on until Thursday.  D.O.T. officials say that's because they’re working on sign structure.  The D.O.T. website also states that bridge work starts on Route 226 in Bath and Bradford on Wednesday April 19, at 7am.  That will last until July 15^th.  Officials say the Rt 226 northbound lane will be reconstructed from Wednesday until July 15^th, and that the southbound lanes will be open but the northbound lanes will be closed.   

The Possibility Of Solar Farms In Campbell
The Town of Campbell is having a public hearing on Monday April 24^th about possible changes to zoning laws.  Town Clerk Michelle Seeley says, the proposed changes have to do with solar farms that might be starting up in Campbell.  The public hearing will be at 7:00pm on Monday the 24^th  . at the Campbell Town Hall.

Bath Man Is Facing Weapon/Drug Charges

From Bath Police Chief Colin Taft:  On 04/15/2023, at approximately 11pm, the Village of Bath Police Department responded to the area of 3 E William St for a report of a male subject out front repeatedly sparking a taser in the presence of others.  After investigation, Christian J. Tobias, age 30, of Bath, was found to be in possession of an electronic stun gun. Subsequent to the weapons arrest, Tobias was additionally found to be in possession of a significant amount of suspected methamphetamine as well as a significant amount of packaging material.  Tobias was charged with one count of Criminal Possession of a weapon in the third degree, a class D
felony, one count of Criminal Possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a class B felony, and one count of Criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree.  Tobias was processed and transported to Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment where he was remanded without the possibility for bail.

Avoca Man Is Accused Of Armed Robbery In Wayland

From The Sheriff:  Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that on April 17, 2023, deputies of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office arrested Dylan A. Bacon, age 23, of River Street, Avoca, New York, following an investigation of a reported robbery in the Village of Wayland, New York.  It is alleged that Mr. Bacon entered a retail property and forcibly stole property from another while using or threatening the use of a weapon.  Mr. Bacon was charged with Robbery in the First Degree, a class B Felony and Petit Larceny.  Mr. Bacon was arraigned in the Centralized Arraignment Court and released.  On April 14^th 2023, Sheriff Allard requested the public’s assistance in identifying a person of interest in the robbery investigation.  Many tips were received, and were extremely helpful in assisting investigators in identifying the person in the photo, the truck in the photo and leading to the subsequent arrest of Mr. Bacon.  Sheriff Allard thanks the residents of Steuben County for their partnership and assistance.

What Happened To The Houses At The VA Entrance? 

Well if you live or drive around Bath, or go the Bath VA, you might have noticed that the houses that used to be right near the VA are now gone.  That’s because of a long time plan to tear them down because the doctors that were living there, have not been there in those houses for a long time.  We contacted the VA spokesman and asked him if there were any plans for homeless veterans to live there.   “There are no plans for the demolished area, other than green space," said the Finger Lakes VA Spokesperson.  "Any potential future project would be hindered by that location, being in a floodway.”

Corning Community College Has A Job Fair This Week

Corning Community College is having a job fair, this Thursday the 20^th, 11am to 2pm.   That’ll be at 1 Academia Drive in Corning.   In a related story, Steuben County Public Health is hiring.  If you’re a southern tier college student or grad student, Steuben County Public Health is looking to fill three Public Health Corp Fellows positions.  Interested?  Call 607 664 2438.

Getting Around To Street Crew Jobs Earlier Than Expected

Bath Village Mayor Michael Sweet says, with the nice weather this week, street crews will be getting around to some of the jobs a little earlier than expected.

Weekend Brushfires In Ontario And Allegany Counties

There were a number of brush fires in the region over the weekend.  Ontario County had two fires, they were in the Canadice area.  There were also brush fires in Allegany County, in Bolivar, Cuba, and Rushford, and there were brush fires in Cattaraugus County too.  There were no injuries reported in any of these incidents.    

Bath Police Say There Was A DWI Related Fender Bender 

Bath Village Police Chief Taft reports that a 60 year old woman from the Ontario County Town of Bloomfield, is charged with DWI, driving without registration and inspection, as well as unsafe backing.  That’s after an alleged fender bender in the Tops Friendly Market parking lot in Bath on April 7^th.   Bath Police also say, the 60 year old also refused a chemical test. 

Job Opening At The Hammondsport Village Hall
Hammondsport Village Hall is looking to hire a deputy clerk.  It’s a 30 hour a week job, and the main duties are water billing and collection, planning and zoning preparation and meetings, and code enforcement.  If you’re interested or know someone that is, please drop off a cover letter and resume at the Hammondsport Village Hall at 18 Water Street.  Or email the resume and cover letter to: clerk@Hammondsport.us

State Police Report That 18 Adults, Some From Bath, Elmira, Corning, Are Charged With Sexual Exploitation Of A Minor, Over A Seven Year Period 

FulL Press Release From The New York State Police 

On October 13, 2022, New York State Police members from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation of SP Horseheads began an investigation into Andrew Daugherty, 49, of Dundee, New York, who was alleged to have sexually exploited a minor child. The abuse occurred over the span of seven years at various locations of Yates County and the southern tier.  Seventeen other individuals were also charged in connection with the exploitation of the same minor. Over the course of several months, and with the assistance of members of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation from Troops E, A, and C, 18 individuals were arrested and charged with various sex offenses committed against the same child.

The New York State Police worked in conjunction with the Holly Hill Police Department of Florida, the Yates County District Attorney’s Office, the Yates County Department of Social Services, and the New York State Police Computer Crimes Unit to successfully conclude the lengthy investigation and provide support services to the victim.

On March 16, 2023, the Yates County District Attorney’s Office presented the case to a grand jury which resulted in the indictment of eighteen individuals:

Andrew Daugherty of Dundee: Predatory Sexual Assault against a Child (A-II Felony), Predatory Sexual Assault (A-II Felony), Sex Trafficking of a Child (B Felony), Compelling Prostitution (B Felony), Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree (D Felony), Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child (D Felony), Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance (C Felony). Daugherty was also charged as a co-defendant for aiding and abetting others in the promotion of sexual acts.

Micheleine Ridley of Dundee: Predatory Sexual Assault against a Child and Tampering with Physical Evidence (E Felony);

Michael Gucciardo of Bath: Rape 1^st Degree (B Felony), Criminal Sexual Act 1^st Degree (B Felony), Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child (D Felony), Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance (C Felony), Rape 3^rd Degree (E Felony), and Criminal Sexual Act 3^rd Degree (E Felony);

Ashley Crandall of Corning: Two counts of Criminal Sexual Act 1^st Degree (B Felony);

Anthony Hawn of Holly Hill, FL: Rape 2^nd Degree (D Felony) and Criminal Sexual Act 2^nd Degree (D Felony);

Mary Diederich of Bath: Criminal Sexual Act 1^st Degree (B Felony) and 3^rd Degree (E Felony), Aggravated Sexual Abuse 2^nd Degree (C Felony), Sexual Abuse 1^st Degree (D Felony), Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance (C Felony), and Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child (D Felony);

Tiffany Jamieson of Binghamton: Two counts of Criminal Sexual Act 2^nd Degree (D Felony);

Richard Tallarida of Elmira: Criminal Sexual Act 2^nd Degree (D Felony), Rape 2^nd Degree (D Felony), Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance (C Felony), and Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child (D Felony);

Zackery Crissell of Elmira: Rape 2^nd Degree (D Felony) and Criminal Sexual Act 2^nd Degree (D Felony);

Wayne Niles of Elmira: Rape 2^nd Degree (D Felony);

Ashley Shaffer of Bath: Two counts of Criminal Sexual Act 2^nd Degree (D Felony);

Aaron Labar of Prattsburgh: Sexual Abuse 1^st Degree (D Felony) but the charges has been returned to local court and will be amended to Sexual Abuse 2^nd Degree (A Misdemeanor);

Stephanie Ridley of Dundee: Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance (C Felony) and Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child (D Felony)

Five other individuals have plead guilty to the following charges:

Brittany Skinkle of Elmira: Criminal Sexual Act 1^st Degree (B Felony);

Gregory Scears of Elmira: Rape 3^rd Degree (E Felony);

Summer Elliott of Elmira: Criminal Sexual Act 2^nd Degree (D Felony) and Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance (C Felony);

Steven Sherman of Elmira: Rape 3^rd Degree (E Felony);

Kayla Montgomery of Olean: Criminal Sexual Act 1^st Degree (B Felony)

Bath Town Board Issues Statement: We Don't Have The Authority To Scrap The Assessments, So The Original Assessments/Reassessments Are Still Valid

The assessment issue is back in the news today.  The Bath Town Board put out a statement in the 10am hour this morning.  Summed up, the statement reads that because of state and county rules, the vote that the Bath Town Board made on April 10^th – to scrap the assessment - is now considered null and void.  Meaning that the original property assessments that were sent out, dated March 14^th, are still in place.  “Pursuant to Real Property Tax Law, a municipal board does not have the authority to dictate or alter procedures of the Assessment/Reassessment process.”  Bath town officials also say the assessor’s office will accommodate as many requests as possible.    

Read The Full Statement From The Bath Town Board: 

Pursuant to Real Property Tax Law, a municipal board does not have the authority to dictate or alter procedures of the Assessment/Reassessment process.  Therefore, action proposed by Board Resolution on April 10, 2023, although presented in good faith, is null and void.  Instructions given to property owners in letter dated March 14, 2023 should be considered and adhered to as applicable.  The established schedule remains in place.  Assessor’s Office will accommodate as many requests as possible.

The timeframe for this process cannot be altered, per State, County and Local regulations.  Thank you to all for understanding.

Update On The Stolen Truck/Vandalized Truck Case

Steuben County Jail officials say that the suspect in the case of the truck that was stolen and vandalized in Bath, 33 year old Kaleb Heidrick, is being held now in Steuben County Jail. Heidrick is accused of stealing a truck on Wednesday, and painting it with graffiti and then leaving it on a street on Thursday. 

Sheriff Allard Asks - Do You Know Who This Suspect Is?  

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard requests the public’s assistance to identify the person and vehicle shown below.  The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a robbery that occurred at a retail property in the Village of Wayland on February 5th, 2023. We are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the individual in the photo, a person of interest in the investigation, as well as the vehicle pictured below. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 607-622-3911, or they can provide information through the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office App Tipline. The App can be located at the following link: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a34914810  

Bath Village Police Have A Suspect In The Stolen Truck Case

On Wednesday night Bath police announced that a white 2015 chevy truck with florida plates had been stolen.  On Thursday, Police Chief Colin Taft said that the truck had been found on May Street, with black paint splattered all over it.  Bath Police Chief Colin Taft reports that later on Thursday, a 33 year old, Kaleb Heidrick, no address given, has been charged with Criminal Possesion of Stolen Property, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree and Tampering with Physical Evidence.  Chief Taft also says, Heidrick also had to be taken to Ira Davenport, after allegedly swallowing drugs, which reportedly made Heidrick very sick.  Heiderick is also said to have been released on bail.  Police Chief Taft is thanking the many Bath residents, for the tips and the videos related to this case. 

(Photos From Bath Police Chief Colin Taft)

Full Press Release From Police Chief Taft:

On 4/13/2023, The Village of Bath Police Department reports the arrest of Kaleb E. Heidrick, age 33 for one count of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, a class D Felony, Tampering with Physical Evidence, a class E Felony and Criminal Mischief in the second degree, a class D Felony. This is in relation to the theft and destruction of the truck pictured on Facebook.  While being questioned by the Bath Police Department, Mr. Heidrick consumed narcotics that were hidden on or in his body and overdosed.  Mr. Heidrick had to be taken to Ira Davenport for treatment and released.

The Village of Bath Police Department would like to extend their gratitude to the Village residents in their efforts to solve these crimes. The Police Department received multiple tips and videos that helped with the multiple thefts happening the last few nights.

Mr. Heidrick has many felony charges pending and is free without bail.  Some of these felonies are for car thefts, burglaries and larcenies. 

Heidrick was arrested and escorted to the Village of Bath Police Department for processing. After processing, Heidrick was transported to Steuben County Jail without issue. Many more charges are anticipated on Mr. Heidrick through continued future investigation. 

It is of the hope of the Bath Police Department that Mr. Heidrick is held this evening on bail at his Centralized Court arraignment. 

The Village of Bath Police Department would also like to use this press release as a friendly reminder to lock up your belongings. Home surveillance cameras can deter/ help some crime.

Sweet: The Better Weather Is On The Way

FB statement from Bath Village Mayor Michael Sweet:  "It is always a great sight seeing the street sweepers out, as you know better weather is on the way. With that said –some new trash cans are now at Mossy Bank. This will help us keep the trash where it should be and not all over the park."  

Mayor Sweet also says that crews have started our pickle-ball courts and are hoping they are completed by the end of May.

This Saturday - 10a-2p - Prescription Drug Takeback Day

Steuben County  Sheriff Jim Allard says, there’s a prescription drug bottle take back day, this Saturday, 10am to 2pm at the Sheriff’s Office on Rumsey Street Extension in Bath.

Troopers Say A Truck Drove Into A Gas Station In Urbana

From State Police: On April 12, 2023, troopers from Bath responded to a report of a vehicle into the Kwik Fill gas station located in the town of Urbana between 3:30 - 4:00 a.m.  The vehicle was identified as a gray 2015 Toyota Tundra bearing New York gold plate “GKU9080”. The vehicle was found to be reported stolen from the town of Wheeler and has significant damage to the rear end. The suspects were wearing dark colored clothing. One suspect was wearing work boots and the other white sneakers.  Anyone who has an information about this is urged to contact the New York State Police Troop E Headquarters at (585) 398-4100.

Some Garage Break-In's - In The Village Of Bath 

Bath Village Police Chief Colin Taft reports that there have been some garages in Bath that have been broken into.  The police chief says that a motorized bike and other items were stolen.  Police Chief Taft also posted a statement on his FB page, saying quote: “almost 100 percent of the Village of Bath crime is from people high on drugs stealing the Village dry and selling drugs at will.  Also, almost all of them have multiple felonies pending and are out without bail.”  

Steuben County Committee Gets $25,000

County officials say the Steuben Prevention Coalition Opioid Committee has been awarded $25,000 for education, training and prevention of opiod addiction.  They say opiods have claimed two lives in the area so far this year. 

Scammers Pretending To Be Deputies On The Phone

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that yesterday, the Sheriff’s Office received information that a Bath village resident received a phone call from 607-622 number, and that it was a scam.  The scam caller claimed the person was being arrested and the person needed to pay over the phone to take care of things.  The sheriff says this is a scam and don’t answer any questions to callers like this.  Also, the sheriff says please report any scams to local law enforcement.

SUNY Colleges Are No Longer Requiring "The Jab"

WKBW TV reports that SUNY colleges are no longer requiring students to get covid vaccines to attend a SUNY campus.  According to the report, SUNY schools are encouraging, but no longer requiring, covid vaccines.  Click here for full WKBW story.

Bath Town Board Scraps Recent Reval At Monday Meeting

A large crowd turned out last night at the Bath Town meeting, to talk about their assessments.  By one count, there were 77 people that showed up.  Bath Town Clerk Rhonda Tobias tells us today, that the Bath Town Board unanimously voted last night to scrap the 2022 Reval, which was done by the town assessor.  We have reached out to the Bath Town Supervisor Ron Smith who has not responded as of yet.  As soon as we do, we’ll get Smith’s statement posted.  However, Bath Village Mayor Michael Sweet says, what it means is, the assessments go back to what they were before the 2022 Reval.       

Scam: Fake Calls That Look Like The Sheriff Is Calling

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that on April 11, 2023, the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office received information that a Village of Bath resident received a phone call from 607-622-xxxx that the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office has a warrant for their arrest.  The call also stated that in order to take care of it the person needed to supply their banking information.

This is a SCAM, the Sheriff’s Office does not need anyone’s banking information to take care of a warrant of arrest.  If you receive a call like this, do not supply any information or reply to any questions.  The last four numbers of the call change frequently and are sometimes actual numbers for uninvolved persons.  Please report any scams to local law enforcement.

The sheriff says be alert and do not be a victim.  "Public safety is everyone's business," Allard says.

Bath Man Is Charged With Stealing, Resisting Arrest
Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard says deputies arrested 49 year old Brian Rosell, of State Route 415 in Bath.  The sheriff says it’s alleged that Rosell stole property, allegedly resisted arrest causing injury to a deputy, and allegedly brought suspected meth into the Steuben County Jail.  The charges against Rosell are 2^nd degree Assault, 1^st degree Introducing Prison Contraband 7^th degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest and Petit Larceny. Rosell was arraigned in the Centralized Arraignment Court and remanded to the Steuben County Jail without bail. The injured deputy was treated at a local medical facility and released.

Allegany County Woman's Husband Being Held In China
The New York Times, Reuters and other media outlets, are reporting that two human rights activists lawyers in China were just given decade long prison sentences and sent to unknown locations.  One of the human rights activist’s names is Ding Jacki, and Ding’s wife Sophie, lives in the Allegany County Town of Alfred.  Sophie told Reuters she is working with the U.S. state department about the long sentencing, which is 12 years for her husband.  Sophie also told Reuters that in China, her husband does not dare say what prison he is being sent to or what the exact charges against him were.

Two Arrests Made In Burglary Cases In Steuben County

Last week, Sheriff Jim Allard appeared on WVIN’s Community Focus with Dave Taylor Smith, talking about the increase in burglaries, in Steuben County.  The sheriff says since then, deputies have made two arrests.  The sheriff also continues to encourage those that do not have porch cameras, to purchase one and install it on your property.  

Public Telecommunications Week In Steuben County

The Steuben County Legislature has declared this week, public telecommunications week and county legislative chair Scott Van Etten is honoring 9-1-1 dispatchers and the other dispatchers for their contributions for the great work they do.  Van Etten says, their contributions in the work of apprehending criminals, treatment of patients in emergency situations and their work in reporting fires to fire departments, is invaluable.  

Langworthy Calls China "Bullies", Schumer Calls For Russia To Release A Wall Street Journal Reporter Being Held  

Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy says, China is a bully.  "Their tactics won’t deter America from supporting Taiwan," Langworthy stated in a recent post.  At the same time, Democrat Senator Chuck Schumer says Russia should release Wall Street Journal Reporter Evan Gershkovich, who Schumer says, is wrongly being charged with espionage.  Schumer says he strongly condemns the wrongful detention of Gershkovich and Schumer says, “I demand the release of this internationally known and respected journalist.”

Opiod Info - Steuben County O.D. Stats For March, 2023

The Steuben County Public Health Department has been made aware that additional opioid overdose data was added into the ODMAP system this week for March.  The updated opioid overdose data for March includes nine additional overdoses reported, bringing the total to 29 opioid overdoses, no fatalities, and eight Narcan administrations reported for March.  

Burglaries Are Happening More And More In Steuben Co

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard says burglaries are on the increase in the towns near the Pennsylvania border. The sheriff says, the best thing you can do these days besides locking your doors, is get yourself a door camera. “If you don’t have a ring camera make sure you put one on your home, shed or barn, because we’re seeing a drastic increase in burglaries here in Steuben County,” Allard told Dave Taylor Smith yesterday morning on WVIN Radio.

Scam Callers Pretending To Be State Troopers Asking For $

State Police say there’s a scam going on where the caller states they are a trooper and that they’re investing you for drug crimes. The caller then goes on to ask for personal information and money. “State Police don’t solicit,” noted the statement from NYSP about this scam.  It’s apparently been happeing in Rochester and Canandaigua recently, and state police want people to avoid being conned.

Campbell-Savona Is Having A Big Speaker On Mon Apr 10

Campbell-Savona Central is having a Katie Greer, a nationally known speaker, come and talk with students at the school about social media issues.   If you’ve never heard Katie Greer speak before, here’s a little of the sorts of things she talks about on her youtube page.  The social media talk for students will be on Monday during the daytime hours.  Then on Monday night, Katie Greer will be speaking with parents at the high school there, about social media issues.  That’ll be 6pm to 7pm, Monday night at the Campbell-Savona high school.

Car Check Seat Event, Put On By Steuben Co Sheriff's Dept

There will be a car check seat event at the Armstrong Phone Company building in Addison, that’ll be a week from tomorrow on Saturday April 15^th, 10am to 2pm that day.

Sheriff Allard: Bath Man Is Accused Of Strangulation, Etc

From the Sheriff:  "Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that on April 5, 2023, deputies of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office arrested Thomas B. Stark, age 24, of East William Street Extension, Bath, New York, following an investigation of a reported assault in the Town of Bath.  It is alleged that Mr. Stark struck and choked a person with the intent to cause injury to that person.  It is also alleged that Mr. Stark discharged a rifle round inside the residence, in close proximity to another person.  It is further alleged that Mr. Stark was previously convicted of a felony.  Deputies and Investigators executed a search warrant of Mr. Stark’s residence and recovered five rifles and shotguns.  Mr. Stark was charged with Assault in the Third Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree, a class E Felony, Strangulation in the Second Degree, a class D Felony, and five counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree.  Mr. Stark was arraigned in Steuben County Court and remanded to the Steuben County Jail without bail.  The Hornell Humane Society housed three lambs and the Town of Bath Dog Control Officer removed four dogs from the residence.  Sheriff Allard thanks the Village of Bath Police Department, Town of Bath DCO and the Hornell Humane Society for their assistance in this case." 

Sheriff Allard: An Addison Man Is Accused Of Threatening People With A Machete And Reckless Driving

From The Sheriff:  Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that on April 4, 2023, deputies of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office arrested Ryan G. Harris, age 35, of Balls Park, Addison, New York, following an investigation of a reported menacing in the Town of Tuscarora.  It is alleged that Mr. Harris possessed a machete and threatened to assault multiple persons with it.  It is also alleged that Mr. Harris operated a vehicle in a reckless manner on Sullivan Road, Tuscarora. Mr. Harris was charged with Menacing in the Second Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, a class E Felony, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree and Reckless Driving.  Mr. Harris was arraigned in the Centralized Arraignment Court and released.  Sheriff Allard thanks the New York State Police for their assistance in this arrest. 

Horseheads Man Life Saved After He Drives Into A Creek

Chemung County Sheriff William Schrom says, a driver called 9-1-1 in Chemung County, saying he drove into a creek but did not know where he was.  The sheriff says, officials within the department were able to track the accident victim down because of a cell phone ping, the driver was stuck in a creek in Horseheads, and was taken to Robert Packard Hospital in Sayre Pennsylvania. 

The Old Parking Meter Poles Are Gone
Bath Mayor Michael Sweet says, Liberty Street looks "a million times better" with the old parking meter poles gone for good.  The mayor says, this will make snow removal much easier and he is thanking the street department for taking the old parking meter poles down.

More Swatting-School Threats 

Civil War Re-enactments, they do them in the Steuben County Town of Howard and in the Allegany County Town of Angelica.  The Niagara Gazette reports that the governor has been working to get it into the budget, amendments to change the part of the conceal carry law, so that civil war re-enactors can use muskets at civil war events. 

Winds Leave Bath Village Yards Filled With Branches, ETC

In Bath, Mayor Michael Sweet says that this past weekend's high winds resulted in a lot of branches and limbs in people’s yards. The Bath mayor says he’s asked the street department to pick these up on Monday April 10.  The mayor also says, the limbs and branches must be placed roadside by Sunday evening.  On that topic, County Public Safety Director Tim Marshall says the county 9-1-1 office answered around 155 calls in a three hour period on Saturday, when the high winds were going through Bath and Corning.

DMV In Corning, Is Closed For The Rest Of Today - Clerk Says If Needed, Use Bath/Hornell DMV Offices 

Steuben County Clerk Judith has announced the Department of Motor Vehicles branch office in Corning is closed today (Tuesday, Apr. 4)  The office currently is unable to process transactions due to state equipment issues and hopes the issues will be resolved by the afternoon of Wednesday (Apr. 5).  The DMV in offices Bath and Hornell are functioning and able to process transactions.  

Traffic Speed Trailer Is Out For The Spring/Summer

Sheriff Jim Allard says, the sheriff’s department’s traffic speed trailer is now out for the season. Right now it’s on Tannery Road in the Town of Campbell.  The sheriff says, the new policy is, to share reports from the traffic speed trailer with town supervisors and county legislators if they request data from it. 

New Police Dog For Sheriff's Dept, Being Used In Schools

Sheriff Jim Allard says last month the sheriff’s department got a new K9, named Tripp, that was assigned to Deputy Erica McCoy for training for tracking and trailing certification. K9 Tripp is named after Correction Officer Peggy Tripp, a person who served the Sheriff’s Office as a Correction Officer for many years and sadly, Peggy Tripp died of cancer within a year of retirement.   The sheriff also says that Deputy Erica McCoy and K9 Tripp are at both the Hornell or Arkport Schools.  

County Public Health: How Are We Doing?  

The Steuben County Public Health Department says they’re seeking input from Steuben residents and community organizations, to find out how people think the county public health dept. is doing.  Public Health Director Darlene Smith says to check out this link: https://tinyurl.com/PHPlan23

Smith also says that residents and community organizations are always welcome to reach out to Steuben Public Health by phone 607-664-2438.  

A New Deputy District Attorney In Steuben County

Hornell Attorney Joan Merry is taking over for Attorney Dave Wallace as Deputy District Attorney for Steuben County.  Joan Merry is the first female Deputy DA, has worked as a public defender an assistant DA in Bath, has worked in Allegany County doing social services attorney work in Belmont.   

Update On Sunday's Early Morning Accident In Bath

On that tractor trailer accident which happened in the 3am hour on Sunday morning, the Red Cross says, the semi had containers of blood inside it, and the blood containers were successfully delivered, after the accident.

Monthly Report For March 2023, From Bath Village Police

Bath Police Chief Colin Taft says, last month there were 33 calls for a check of someone’s welfare, seven criminal mischief complaints, one burglary investigation, 14 larceny investigations and 36 complaints of disorderly conduct incidents.

Gov Makes April 2, Military Child Day In NYS
Governor Kathy Hochul says that from now on April 2^nd, which was yesterday,  Military Child Day, recognizing the children of military members.

As of yesterday, Saturday April 1, there were over 3,000 power outages being reported in Steuben County because of the high winds.  There were also numerous accidents being reported on Steuben County Firewire's FB Page. 

From The Bath Volunteer Fire Dept on Saturday: 

All around our area departments were busy this afternoon (Saturday) when the cold front came thru. Multiple trees and wires down everywhere. In Bath it was no different. The winds were so severe it took the end wall out of the former Muller Auction building across the road from Salubria Lake on 415 in the town of Bath South of the Village. We answered 7 calls during the storm and have had 2 additional calls so far.

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Now, as of this posting, Sunday April 2, 10:18am, there are: 124 outages in Bath, 77 in the Town of Addison, 49 in the Village of Addison, 139 in Caton, 184 in the Town of Corning, 175 in Erwin, 383 in Painted Post, 54 in Prattsburg, 56 in Lindley and 19 in Putleney.  

From The Bath Volunteer Fire Dept Sunday Morning: Just before 3am this morning (Sun Apr 2) the Bath Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for a tractor trailer roll over on I-86 westbound between exits 37 and 38. On arrival they found a very large box truck on it's side and on the guard rail in the median side of the highway.  The driver was out of the truck when units arrived and refused treatment. The truck was carrying 17 to 18 cases of blood. A heavy wrecker was called to upright the truck and tow from the scene. Bath units cleared the scene just after 4am.