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Darien

Law and Order: Batavia woman charged with DWI, resisting arrest following property damage accident

By Howard B. Owens

Felicia R. Sherrell, 43, of Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving while ability impaired by drugs and alcohol, failure to keep right, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, harassment 2nd, and resisting arrest. Sherrell was arrested in connection with a motor vehicle accident reported on Dec. 17. According to police, Sherrell's vehicle struck a sign on West Main Street at Oak Street, Batavia, and then left the scene. Once located, Sherrell allegedly resisted arrest and struck an officer. She was released on an appearance ticket.

Isaiah J. Munroe, 33, of Batavia, is charged with assault 3rd, unlawful imprisonment 2nd, and criminal mischief 4th. Munroe is accused of being in a fight with another person on Walnut Street, Batavia, on Feb 4. He is accused of restraining a person and preventing the person from calling for help. He was arraigned and released.

Michael R. Ostrander, 59, of Batavia, is charged with assault 3rd. Ostrander is accused of hitting another person, causing injury, during an incident on Feb. 9 on Mill Street. Ostrander was arraigned and released.

Leona J. Polk, 44, of Le Roy, is charged with harassment 2nd. Polk is accused of striking a nurse in the emergency room at UMMC on Feb. 12. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Rebecca R. Fugate, 33, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Fugate is accused of striking a person on Feb. 12 while on a bus in Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Kristen R Aquino, 40, no community listed, is charged with DWI. Aquino was stopped on Feb. 3 on Liberty Street by a Batavia patrol officer. She was issued an appearance ticket.

David J. Sokolowski, 54, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Sokolowski was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on Feb. 6 in the city of Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jaylinn M O'Neil, 33, of Le Roy, was arrested on Feb. 7 on a warrant issued by City Court. O'Neil was initially charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd on Nov. 8. She is accused of failure to appear in court as ordered. She was arraigned in City Court and released pending her next court appearance.

Peter Hubbard, 43, of Lovering Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with DWI, DWAI (combined influence of drugs and alcohol), driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, driving left of pavement markings.  Hubbard was charged following an investigation by deputies Zachary Hoy and Nicholas Chamoun at 5:40 p.m. on Dec. 16 on Ellicott Street Road, Pavilion.  He was arrested on Feb. 17. Hubbard was released on an appearance ticket.

A 13-year-old was arrested by State Police on Feb. 15 and charged with burglary 3rd. The alleged burglary was reported on Dec. 29 at 5:17 p.m. in the Town of Elba. No further information released.

Jacqueline M. Kotas, 49, of Alden, is charged with DWI. Kotas was stopped by State Police at 9:30 p.m. on Feb. 13 in the Town of Darien. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Barn fire in Darien Saturday night

By Joanne Beck

There is a fully engaged barn fire reportedly about 50 feet from the home at 10203 Alleghany Rd., Darien, shortly before 9 p.m. Saturday, according to Genesee County Sheriff's dispatch.

Everyone in the home was being evacuated as of 9 p.m., and a fire tanker from Alexander and crews from Corfu Volunteer Fire Department had been called out. 

Law and Order: Bliss man accused of attacking a cop in ER

By Howard B. Owens
Dylan Jordan
Dylan Jordan

Dylan T. Jordan, 22, of Bliss, was arrested on a warrant on Jan. 29.  The arrest stems from an incident reported on Jan. 15. Jordan is accused of engaging in a fight with police officers in the emergency room at UMMC. Jordan allegedly placed an officer in a headlock and attempted to strangle him. Jordan was charged with attempted assault 2nd, attempted strangulation 2nd, criminal obstruction of breathing, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, and harassment 2nd. Jordan was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

Edmund Sobresky, 54, of North Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI/Drugs. Mathew Parker, 34, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd and criminal possession of a controlled substance 4th. Katelyn Jimenez, 30, of Eagle Street, Medina, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, criminal possession of a controlled substance 4th, and criminal impersonation. Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 1:30 a.m. on Feb. 8 at Route 33 and Route 5, Batavia. Deputies determined that Sobresky appeared to be driving while under the influence of drugs. During the traffic stop, found the occupants of the vehicle were allegedly in possession of a large quantity of narcotics, enough to lead to accusations of dealing drugs.  Jimenez is also accused of providing deputies with a false name. All were held pending arraignment.

Tajhenne T. Walker, 28, of Buffalo, and Ericka K. McBride, 34, of Buffalo, are charged with grand larceny 4th, possession of burglar tools, and conspiracy 6th. Walker and McBride are accused of stealing merchandise from Ulta Beauty on Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia, at 7:28 p.m. on Feb. 3rd. They were released on appearance tickets.

Danny D. Williams, 35, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st.  Williams is accused of violating an order of protection on Jan. 28. He was arraigned in City Court and ordered held. 

Olivia J. Patten, 26, of Oakfield, was arrested on Feb. 1 on a warrant issued by City Court. Patten was initially charged on Nov. 1 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd. She was accused of driving with a suspended license. A warrant was issued after she failed to appear in court. Patten was arraigned in City Court, where the case was settled.

Scott D. Murray, 38, is charged with criminal contempt. 2nd. Murray is accused of violating an order of protection on Jan. 31 by making contact with a protected party while at the Genesee County Courthouse. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Jeanna M. Hattaway, 37, of Batavia, was arrested on Jan. 30 on a warrant issued by City Court. Hattaway was initially charged on Dec. 13 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th in connection to an incident reported in April, 2023. A warrant was issued after Hattaway failed to appear in court. Hattaway was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

Adrienne S. Bechtold, 28, of Batavia is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. Bechtold was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia after police responded to a report on Jan. 27 of a suspicious vehicle on East Main Street, Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket.

John A. Cabrera, Sr., 56, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Cabrera is accused of stealing merchandise from Kwik Fill on Jackson Street, Batavia, on Jan. 26. He was issued an appearance ticket.

James W. Zurek, 20, of Batavia, was arrested on Jan. 29 on two warrants. The first warrant stems from an incident in August 2022 when Zurek was charged with strangulation 2nd, assault 3rd, and petit larceny after a disturbance on Cedar Street. The second warrant charged Zurek with bail jumping 3rd. He was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

Andrew William Taylor, 36, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Taylor is accused of stealing $39.97 worth of merchandise from Walmart at 1:07 p.m. on Feb. 2. Taylor was released on an appearance ticket.

Richard Wayne Rumble Jr., 39, of Scribner Road, Pembroke, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, aggravated unlicensed operation 1st, unlicensed operator, and drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle. At 12:27 a.m. on Jan. 16, a caller reported a vehicle swerving into oncoming traffic on Route 5 in Pembroke. The caller followed the vehicle to Crosby's in East Pembroke and stayed on scene until Deputy Carlos Ortiz Speed and Deputy Ryan Mullen arrived.  The deputies reportedly found a driver asleep behind the wheel of the pickup truck. Rumble was released on appearance tickets.

Philip Stewart Mayberry, 52, of South Geddes Street, Syracuse, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd.  Mayberry was arrested following an investigation into an incident at 8250 Park Road, Batavia, at 11:47 a.m. on Jan. 22. Mayberry was released on an appearance ticket. Also charged, Shandell Marie Lissow, 35, of Allen Road, Albion.

Ashton Lea Mohney, 33, of Ross Street, Batavia, is charged with promoting dangerous contraband in prison 1st. Mohney was arrested in connection with an incident reported a 8:15 a.m. on Feb. 5.  The incident was investigated by Deputy James Stack. Mohney was arraigned in City Court and ordered held. No further details were released.

Jacob William Patterson, 28, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of controlled substance 7th and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. Patterson was arrested during a check-the-welfare call at a hotel on Park Road at 11:30 p.m. on Feb. 6. He was held pending arraignment.

Jacob William Patterson, 28, of East Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with introducing prison contraband 1st. Patterson was arrested in connection with an incident at the Best Western Hotel in Batavia and transported to the Genesee County Jail. He is accused of bringing dangerous prison contraband into the jail. He was held pending arraignment.

Mary Ann Virgilio, 48, of State Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal tampering 3rd. Virgilio is accused of entering a residence on State Street Road, Batavia, at 4 p.m. on Feb. 1, and then denying the resident of the property access to the home by locking an internal screen door. Virgilio was issued an appearance ticket.

Austin Chase Durham, 28, of Dewey Avenue, Batavia, is charged with aggravated harassment 2nd. Durham is accused of repeatedly sending text messages on Feb. 6 to another person with the "intent to harass, annoy, or alarm, with no legitimate communication," after being warned by a police officer to cease communication with the person. Durham was ordered held pending arraignment.

Thomas Matthew Gang, 43, of Alleghany Road, Alabama, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .18 or greater.  Gang was stopped at 5:03 p.m. on Feb. 5 on Roberts Road, Alabama by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Kristan Rae Aquino, 40, of Maple Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Aquino is accused of intentionally damaging a bed inside the Genesee County Jail at 4:46 a.m. on Dec. 3. Aquino was arrested on Feb. 6 and issued an appearance ticket.

Jeanna Marie Hathaway, 37, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd. Hathaway was stopped at 1:20 p.m. on Feb. 9 on South Main Street, Elba, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. She was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine. Hathaway was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Jeanna Marie Hathaway, 37, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Hathaway is accused of stealing merchandise from Ulta Beauty at 3 p.m. on Jan. 30. She was released on an appearance ticket.

Stephanie Marie Hockenberry, 36, of Thomas Avenue, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, driving on a suspended registration, and no motor vehicle insurance. Hockenberry was stopped at 8:07 p.m. on Feb. 9, on Route 33, Stafford, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Hockenberry was issued an appearance ticket.

Luis Alexis Harloff, 41, of Oak Orchard Road, Elba, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and unlicensed driver. Harloff was stopped at 2:30 a.m. on Feb. 10 in the parking lot of a location on South Main Street, Elba, by Deputy Jacob Kipler.

Rob Arthur Shuttleworth, 66, of Scotland Road, Akron, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operator 2nd, driving without an interlock device, and driving left of pavement markings. Shuttleworth was stopped at 2:13 am. on Feb. 10 on North Lake Road, Pembroke, by Sgt. Mathew Clor.

Janell Marie Sauer, 48, of Summit Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Sauer was charged following a traffic stop at 2:13 a.m. on Feb. 10 on North Lake Road, Pembroke, by Sgt. Mathew Clor. Sauer was a passenger in the vehicle.

Richard James Burdick, 46, of Coward Road, Byron, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd, unlicensed operation, and failure to keep light. Burdick was stopped at 6:20 p.m. on Feb. 12 on West Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Mason Schultz. Burdick was released on an appearance ticket.

Lisa Marie Fox, 52, of Crimson Heights, Albion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and facilitating aggravated operation 3rd. Fox was allegedly in possession of narcotics while a passenger in a vehicle stopped at 6:20 p.m. on Feb. 12. She is accused of knowing the driver was driving on a suspended license. She was released on an appearance ticket.

Amy Susan Goodenow, 43, of East Road, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Goodenow is accused of stealing a person's car keys and refusing to return them in an incident reported at 12:22 a.m. on Jan. 20. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Christine M. Caplis, 43, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Caplis was arrested on Feb. 13 in connection with an alleged possession of a controlled substance on April 18 during a traffic stop in Corfu. She was arrested after police investigated a disturbance on Dellinger Avenue, Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Erich Douglas Hildebrant, 45, of Batavia Bethany Townline Road, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child.  Hildebrant was charged after an incident reported at 9:20 a.m. on Feb. 2. He is accused of holding a firearm in his hands while making statements and conducting himself in a manner that was detrimental to three children in his presence at the time.

Law and Order: Batavia man accused of strangulation and assault

By Howard B. Owens
brandon marsh
Brandon March

Brandon J. March, 39, of Batavia, is charged with strangulation 2nd, assault 3rd, and menacing 3rd. March was arrested on Dec. 28 following an investigation into an incident on South Lyon Street. March is accused of kicking a person while threatening to kill that person. March was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

Donald G. Vanelli, 60, of Oakfield, is charged with burglary 3rd, criminal mischief 4th, conspiracy 5th, and petit larceny. Vanelli was arrested on Jan. 4 on a warrant stemming from an investigation into a break-in at a business on Mill Street. At least two suspects stole property from the business, according to police. Vanelli was arraigned and released under supervision.

donald vanelli
Donald Vanelli

Tanisha N. Gibson, 38, of Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd, criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. Gibson was arrested on Jan. 8 following an investigation into an incident on Dec. 2 on Bank Street. Gibson is accused of spraying pepper spray in the face of another person. Gibson was arraigned and released.

Tanisha Gibson
Tanisha Gibson

Johnathan M. Falk, 25, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. Falk is accused of cooperating with another person to steal property on Jan. 5 from 7-Eleven on East Main Street. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Samuel J. Hernandez, 21, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Hernandez is accused of shoplifting from West Main Wine and Spirits on Jan. 5. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jaliyla S. Shelton, 18, of Rochester, is charged with two counts of grand larceny 4th. She is accused of stealing two cars in Batavia. She was arrested on Nov. 2 and issued an appearance ticket.  She is accused of failure to appear on those charges and was arrested on a warrant on Jan. 10. She was arraigned and released.

Crystal L. Dacey, 29, of Attica, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and petit larceny. Dacey is accused of stealing property and prescription pills from another person on Jan. 10. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Timothy D. Cobb, 19, of Buffalo, is charged with unlawful fleeing a police officer 3rd. Cobb is accused of fleeing from a police officer following an incident at Speedway at Oak and Main on Jan. 3. The pursuit was terminated, but Cobb was apprehended a short time later. He was issued an appearance ticket and multiple traffic tickets.

James R. Briggs, 48, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Briggs is accused of stealing merchandise from Family Dollar on East Main Street on Jan. 4. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Joshua W. Bombard, 18, of Pavilion, is charged with assault 3rd and criminal mischief 4th. Bombard was arrested after police officers responded to a report of a fight at a location on Ellicott Street on Dec. 27. Bombard is accused of injuring another person and damaging that person's property. He was arraigned and released.

Jennifer M. Beswick, 41, of Batavia, is charged with DWAI/Drugs and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Beswick was arrested on Dec. 27 by Batavia PD following an investigation into a traffic accident that occurred on July 29. Beswick was issued an appearance ticket.

Jason C. Mann, 47, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Mann is accused of damaging another person's property during a fight in the parking lot at 587 East Main St., Batavia, on Dec. 24. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Martin J. Rodgers, 39, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Rogers is accused of damaging a window at a residence on Oak Street on Dec. 19 during an argument. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Naquan J. Shepherd, 24, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Shepherd allegedly hit another person during an argument on Hutchins Street, Batavia, on Dec. 20. Shepherd was issued an appearance ticket.

Ronald J. Murray, 29, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant on Dec. 26. The warrant stems from an incident on Aug. 11. Murray is accused of possessing narcotics. He was arraigned and released. 

Henry C. Roberts, 19, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Roberts is accused of shoplifting from Tops on Dec. 29. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Levy Spikes, Jr., 50, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Spikes was charged following a traffic stop by a Batavia PD patrol on Dec. 24 on Lewiston Road. He was issued traffic tickets.

Malik Isiah Ayala, 32, no permanent address, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Ayala is accused of stealing a pair of Nike sneakers from Dick's Sporting Goods at 4:22 p.m. Jan. 13. When taken into custody, he was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Mark E. Green, 42, of Hermitage Road, Warsaw, is charged with harassment 2nd. Green is accused of hitting another person at a residence on Briarwood Terrace, Batavia, at 5:50 p.m. on Jan. 14. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Scott David Murray, 38, no residence provided, is charged with assault 3rd and criminal obstruction of breathing.  Murray was arrested on Jan. 2 in connection with an incident reported on Dec. 30 at a location in Darien. Murray is accused of striking another person in the face multiple times and applying pressure to the neck of that person multiple times.  He was held for arraignment.

Joseph M. Andrews, 47, of East Crestwood Court, Lockport, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, open container, and speed not reasonable and prudent. Andrews is accused of driving off the roadway at 9:03 p.m. on Jan. 13 on Lewiston Road, Oakfield, while intoxicated. The incident was investigated by deputies Mason Schultz and Zachary Hoy.

Maxim James Reynolds, no age provided, of Lakes Road, Hamlin, is charged with DWI and false personation. Reynolds was stopped at 2:33 p.m. on Jan. 14 on Reed Road, Bergen, by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Sponsored Post: Bontrager Real Estate hosts real estate auction

By Lisa Ace
Bontrager Real Estate
OPEN HOUSE!!!  1508 Church Rd, Darien Center, NY 14040 (Town of Bennington) is being sold at public online auction.  The property includes a single-family, 3- bedroom house, plus a cabin and pond, located on 10 acres in a country setting. Three different pole barn structures provide space for storage, a shop, or your own projects. Enjoy plenty of wildlife and privacy!  The property will be sold subject to the seller's acceptance of the final bid. 
Open House Dates: 
-Saturday, October 28th, 2 - 4 pm
- Monday, October 30th, 3 - 5 pm
Contact Robert Todd Jantzi, Real Estate Broker and Auctioneer at 585-343-4529 or todd@bontragerauction.com.  

Sponsored Post: Just listed; The Halloween House in Darien

By Lisa Ace
Pfister Realty Group

10596 ALLEGHANY ROAD, DARIEN - WELCOME TO THE 'HALLOWEEN HOUSE'. THIS 1960SF VINTAGE VICTORIAN HOME IN DARIEN CENTER IS A LANDMARK. KNOWN BY LOCALS FOR OVER A DECADE FOR THEIR YEARLY ELABORATE HALLOWEEN PRESENTATION. WRAP AROUND LOWER AND UPPER PORCH WHICH PRESENTS A BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF DARIEN. ROOMS WITH HIGH CEILINGS, HARD WOOD FLOORING, CUSTOM BLINDS,STAINGLASS WINDOWS, A WOOD BURNING STOVE AND BUILT IN SHELVING/STORAGE WHICH ECCENTUATES THE HOME. ADDITIONAL SITTING ROOM WITH POSSIBLITY TO BE CONVERTED INTO 5TH BEDROOM. UPDATED KITCHEN WITH ISLAND, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES. CONVENIENCE OF 1ST FLOOR LAUNDRY. UPSTAIRS OF THIS GENEROUS HOME OFFERS 4 BEDROOMS. PRIMARY BEDROOM PRESENTS ACCESS TO UPPER WRAP AROUND PORCH. ADDITIONAL 3 BEDROOMS WITH AMPLE CLOSET SPACE. VINYL WINDOWS INSTALLED 2011. ENTERTAIN IN THE FULLY FENCED IN YARD. ABOVE GROUND, HEATED (GAS) 18FT POOL. NEW LINER 2023, FIRE PIT, SWINGSET AND CHICKEN COOP. THE 1.5 CAR GARAGE INCLUDES A WOODBURNER. PORCH PAINTED 2023. HOME HAS BLOWN INSULATION, MOLD RESISTANT INSTALLED IN ATTIC AND BASEMENT 2023, SUMP PUMP 2017. PLENTY OF STORAGE IN ATTIC WHICH HAS 2 VENTILATION FANS INSTALLED W/ REMOTE. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS LISTING!

Injury reported in motorcycle accident in Darien

By Howard B. Owens

A motorcycle and car are involved in an accident at Route 238 and Darien Alexander Townline Road, Darien.

Darien Fire and Alexander ambulance responding.

An injury is reported and medics on scene are starting treatment.

 

Gary A. Graber Appointed to GCC Board of Trustees

By Press Release

Press Release:

gary_graber_2023.jpg
Photo of Gary Graber courtesy of GCC. 

Genesee Community College is proud to announce the appointment of Gary A. Graber to a 7-year term on the Genesee Community College Board of Trustees effective August 16 through June 30, 2030. This appointment fills the vacancy left by Trustee Emeritus Laurie Miller.

Mr. Graber enlisted in the Naval Reserve (Seabees) shortly after graduating from Alexander Central School. During his seven years as a naval reservist, he began a forty-five-year career in the transportation industry as a driver and ended up as a terminal manager for a northeast freight carrier.

Mr. Graber was elected town justice for the Town of Darien, New York, taking office in January 1980. He is a past member of the Town and Village Court Education Curriculum Committee and has taught criminal and administrative courses for the New York State Judicial Institute and the New York State Office of Court Administration.

Justice Graber continues to be very active in the development and training of topics relating to commercial driver's licenses and commercial motor vehicles, including the development of sentencing charts which assist the New York courts in properly disposing cases that involve commercial motor vehicle equipment violations. As an alumnus and faculty member of the National Judicial College since 2008 he continually instructs judicial personnel both in their home states and virtually on all matters related to the commercial driver's license.

He is an honorary member and liaison of the New York State Magistrates Court Clerks Association. He is also a past president of the Genesee County Magistrates Association and has been a member of the New York State Magistrates Association for over 43 years, serving as a past president, vice president, and director in that association as well as continuing to serve on several committees. He retired from elected office in July 2023 after more than forty-two years of service. He now serves as a Judicial Ambassador, Alumnus, and Faculty Member for the National Judicial College, Reno Nevada; providing education to judicial stakeholders throughout the country.

Gary has received many awards, including the Leadership Award from the Genesee County Magistrates Association, the 2005 NYS Magistrate of the Year Award, the 2006 Criminal Justice Award from Genesee County Alcohol and Substance Abuse, and the 2013 Kevin E. Quinlan Award for Excellence in Traffic Safety in Washington DC.

Mr. Graber is also a proud graduate of Leadership Genesee Class of 2005 where he has since received the 2006 Outstanding Alumnus and Barry Miller Lifetime Achievement Awards.

For more information contact Vice President, Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Three arrests announced at Odesza concert at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following arrests were announced by the Sheriff's Office on Wednesday in connection with the Odesza Concert on Sept. 1 at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center. 

Kaylee N. Laird, 24, of Chapel Street, Canandaigua, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd after allegedly reentering the venue area after being told she could not enter.

Peter M. J. Karrkos, 24, of Seneca Drive, Canandaigua, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd after allegedly reentering the venue area after being told he could not enter.

Nicholas T. Ortiz, 18, of Hamlin Parma Townline Road, Hilton, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd and disorderly conduct after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return and then knocking over a section of fencing while leaving.

Call into Monroe County dispatch found to be 'swatting incident'

By Howard B. Owens
county line road swatting incident
The scene on Countyline Road in Darien late this afternoon in what local law enforcement is calling a "swatting incident," a false report of a violent crime.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Monroe County emergency dispatch received a call on a non-emergency number Monday afternoon reporting a murder-suicide at 3865 Countyline Road in Darien.

Genesee County Sheriff's Office and State Police responded, along with Mercy EMS, and found a farm field at that address. They checked three neighboring residents near that address and didn't find any issues. Patrols have cleared the scene. 

 "We checked residences out of an abundance of caution given that we had plotted the address to an empty field," Chief Deputy Joseph Graff said.

Graff said the call may have indicated that a person had shot his girlfriend and then killed himself and that a third person may have been involved.

According to Graff, the Orleans County Sheriff's Office checked a similar address in Orleans County and also found no incident.

Officials are calling this a swatting incident. 

Graff said prank calls such as this are a danger to law enforcement, other first responders, and the community.

"I think the danger is just evident," Graff said. "We have law enforcement resources responding in an emergency fashion to essentially check out a false report. Not only does that endanger the law enforcement individuals who are responding, but also the community at large."

Since these sorts of incidents have helped elsewhere in the county, law enforcement has learned, Graff said, to hold some resources back so there are still patrols available in other parts of the jurisdiction. 

Since the call didn't come in on an emergency line, there was no immediate caller ID information available, Graff said, but authorities will be working to identify the caller. Criminal charges are possible. 

"The caller could be charged with filing a false report or falsely reporting an incident; those are the first two that come to mind," Graff said.

Either can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. The severity of the charge would depend on the actual statements made by the caller, Graff said. 

Asked what motivates these types of calls, Graff said, "I wish I knew the answer to that. I don't know."

One arrest reported for Lumineers concert at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following arrest was made by the Sheriff's Office in conjunction with the Lumineers concert at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Tuesday.

Nicholas J. McKee, 27, of King Avenue, New Castle, Ontario Canada is charged with criminal Trespass 3rd after allegedly jumping over a fence into a restricted area of the concert venue.

Judicial commission recommends censure for Darien justice over social media posts

By Howard B. Owens
jennifer nunnary
Justice Jennifer R. Nunnery

The State Commission on Judicial Conduct is recommending censure of a Town of Darien Justice in connection with social media posts attributed to her that used foul language and contained sexual innuendo, with some of the content being associated with her role in the legal system.

Justice Jennifer R. Nunnery has the option of requesting a review of the commission's determination, which was submitted to the Court of Appeals on Aug. 23. If Nunnery does not request a review within 30 days, the commission will censure her in accordance with the determination.

A censure is a formal reprimand. It does not otherwise affect Nunnery's standing as a lawyer or a judge.

Nunnery was admitted to the bar in 2015 and became a town justice in January 2020.

She is accused of making inappropriate social media posts between December 2020 through April 2021. She apparently made changes to her behavior on social media and deleted the problematic posts after being counseled by a supervisor.

Among the social media comments cited by the commission:

Nunnery
Nunnery comment 2
nunnery comment 3

The commission states that the third of those posts received 57 reactions and 31 comments before Nunnery removed it in April 2021.

During this time frame, Nunnery reportedly also posted two responses to a re-shared seven-year-old post. Nunnery is accused of making comments about being hungover, using profanity, and in a separate comment, she recalled drawing a picture of male anatomy on the face of a person she apparently knew who was passed out on a plane.

She is also accused of liking posts regarding the candidacy of a person running for city judge in Buffalo, Carrie Phillips, and of a candidate for school board in Alexander, Lindsay Bessey.

In the commission's view, these likes, which could be seen by most members of the public, gave the appearance of a judge endorsing candidates for office, which is prohibited conduct.

In a press statement, Commission Administrator Robert H. Tembeckjian said, “Judges are obliged, on and off the bench, to uphold the integrity and dignity of judicial office and to avoid partisan political activity. While those constraints apply regardless of the forum, a judge should be especially careful when communicating on social media, which can compound the impropriety of an inappropriate message by spreading it far and wide.”

In the determination report, the commission states that Nunnery said she was unaware that her "likes" of posts were visible to the wider public. The commission also states that Nunnery was aware of the privacy setting options available on social media posts.

"Respondent now appreciates that the integrity of the judiciary is undermined when a judge publicly posts puerile and explicit content," the commission stated, adding that she also now understands the appearance of endorsing candidates through "likes."

"The Rules require judges to maintain high standards of conduct and to 'act at all times in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary," the commission stated. "The Rules also prohibit judges from engaging in extra-judicial activities which 'detract from the dignity of judicial office.' Respondent violated these rules when she made inappropriate and undignified public posts and comments on Facebook, some of which referenced her role as an attorney in the legal system."

The commission continued, "It is well-settled that judges are held to a higher standard of conduct than the general public. 'The ethical standards require a judge to avoid extra-judicial conduct that casts doubt on the judge’s impartiality . . . or detracts from the dignity of judicial office . . .  Upon assuming the bench, a judge surrenders certain rights and must refrain from certain conduct that may be permissible for others.'"

And quoted the rules on judicial conduct, "[e]very judge must understand that a judge's right to speak publicly is limited because of the important responsibilities a judge has in dispensing justice, maintaining impartiality and acting at all times in a manner that promotes public confidence in the judge's integrity.”

Nunnery, a Batavia native and Batavia High School graduate, was named a Woman of Distinction by the YWCA in 2016.  The press release announcing the award states she was in the Army Military Police Corp and was deployed to Iraq in 2003 and 2006.  She was honored for her work with veterans and for sharing her own experience with PTSD.

She attended GCC and later obtained a bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Brockport State College and pursued law at University at Buffalo Law School.

At the time, she had a law office in downtown Batavia. She volunteered as a veteran mentor at the Batavia Veterans Treatment Court in City Court. She was also an advisor on the GCC Paralegal Advisory Committee and for the Alexander High School’s Mock Trial Team.

Three-car accident reported in front of Darien Fire Hall

By Howard B. Owens

A three-car motor vehicle accident is reported in the area of 10537 Alleghany Road, Darien, which is right by the Darien Fire Hall.

At least one injury is reported.

Darien Fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.

UPDATE 11:48 p.m.: Minor injuries and very minor damage to vehicles. The vehicles were moved off to the side of the road.

Six Flags Darien Lake Hiring for Fright Fest

By Press Release

Press Release:

Six Flags Darien Lake is looking for bone-chilling and eerie individuals to join the Entertainment team! 200 team members are needed for the 2023 Fall Season. Scare actors, ghouls, make-up artists, Boo Fest Attendants, Costumers, and Ushers are just a few of the positions available for the ghoulish job in town!

Enjoy frightfully fun team member perks like in-park discounts, rewards, recognitions, exclusive team member events, and more.

Open auditions and interviews will be held every Tuesday and Saturday now through September 2, from 2 - 4 p.m. at the Six Flags Darien Human Resources Building. Interested applicants should bring their Social Security Card and a current Photo ID with proof of age OR a school ID & Birth Certificate.

Applicants are encouraged to apply online at any time by visiting sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs. From first-time job seekers to retirees looking for part-time work, Six Flags has something for everyone. For questions, call the Six Flags Darien Lake Human Resources office at 585 599 5108, Monday – Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Felon from Binghamton accused of stealing pickups and tractor in Darien

By Howard B. Owens
larry l. keene of binghampton
Larry L. Keene

A Binghamton resident with prior felony arrests is accused of stealing two pickup trucks and a tractor in Darien three days ago.

All of the vehicles were recovered.

Larry L. Keene, 52, is charged with:

  • Attempted burglary in the second degree, a Class D felony;
  • Burglary in the third degree, a Class D felony;
  • Grand larceny in the third degree, a Class D felony;
  • Criminal mischief in the second degree, a Class D felony; and,
  • Criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree, a Class D felony.

The Sheriff's Office received a report of a burglary and thefts on Tuesday, with additional reports on Wednesday. The location, or locations of the thefts, was not disclosed by the Sheriff's Office.

One of the pickup trucks, which had been hauling a trailer, was located parked roadside on Tuesday at an undisclosed location in the Town of Darien. 

On Wednesday, the other pickup truck was spotted traveling eastbound on Route 20 in the Town of Darien. The pickup truck was located by patrols, including deputies, troopers, and a Sheriff's investigator on Route 20 in Pavilion. Keene was allegedly operating the truck.  He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the jail pending arraignment.

Investigators allege that Keene entered multiple buildings on a residential property, the location was not disclosed, in the Town of Darien, and attempted to enter the residence and stole the tractor and other items from inside a barn.

Keene was later arraigned and jailed without bail because of two prior felony convictions.

Following Keene's arrest, during an ongoing search, the tractor was located at an undisclosed location in the Town of Darien.

Members of the public assisted Sheriff's investigators, along with road patrol units and troopers, in locating Keene and the property.

Keene was convicted of burglary in the third degree, a Class D felony, in Broome County in August 2019 and released on parole in June 2021. There is no other prison term listed for Keene in the state database.

Law and Order: Le Roy man accused of refusing to provide ID during traffic stop

By Howard B. Owens

Jeremiah L. Hayes, 29, of Le Roy, is charged with obstructing governmental administration 2nd and speeding. Hayes was stopped by Batavia PD on July 26 on West Main Street, Batavia. During the traffic stop, he allegedly refused to identify himself or provide police with a driver's license. He allegedly refused to exit his vehicle. He was removed from his vehicle by patrol officers. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Francisco Antonio Quiones, 32, of Buffalo, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 5th. He was allegedly found in possession of cocaine at 12:21 p.m. on Aug. 7 following a complaint at Darien Lake Theme Park. He was held for arraignment.

Bleyke Z. Culver, 27, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant for burglary 2nd and two counts of criminal contempt 2nd. Culver is accused of violating an order of protection on June 23.  He allegedly entered the residence of the protected party. An arrest warrant was issued on July 7. On July 24, Culver was located by Batavia PD in Austin Park. He allegedly attempted to flee but was taken into custody a short distance away. Culver was allegedly with the protected party in violation of the order protection. Culver was arraigned and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Zakara R. Jackson, 19, of Batavia, was arrested on two arrest warrants issued by City Court. The first warrant charges Jackson with bail jumping 2nd. It’s alleged that Jackson had been previously charged with a separate count of bail jumping 2nd. She was arraigned and released but failed to appear back in court. The second warrant charges her with bail jumping 3rd, in relation to a charge of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. She was arraigned on that charge and released, but failed to appear back in court. Jackson was arraigned on the warrants and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice. 

Robert D. Griffin, 45, of Batavia, is charged with felony DWI, open container in a vehicle, and criminal mischief 4th. Griffin was arrested by Batavia PD following a report of a disturbance on Summit Street at Ellsworth Avenue, Batavia on July 19. An investigation indicated he drove while intoxicated. While being processed at police headquarters, Griffin allegedly damaged a wall. He was arraigned and jailed.

Heather N. Holbrook, 38, of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant issued by City Court. Holbrook was initially arrested on May 17 on charges of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd with Intent to sell, a Class B felony, and criminal possession of a controlled substance 4th, a Class C felony). She was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance. Holbrook allegedly failed to appear at her next court date, and a warrant was issued on July 10. On July 18, Holbrook was located and arrested on the warrant. She was arraigned and released. 

Kimberly L. Bue, 34, of Batavia, is charged with bail jumping 3rd.  Bue was previously arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Bue was arraigned and released. She allegedly failed to appear at a scheduled court appearance. On July 20, she was arrested at the Genesee County Jail, where she was incarcerated on an unrelated matter. 

Zachary J. Sauberan, 28, of Lakewood, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Sauberan was previously arrested on Jan. 14 and charged with harassment 2nd. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. He allegedly failed to appear in court, and a warrant was issued on April 5. On July 19, Sauberan was arrested. He was arraigned in City Court, where the case was resolved.

Sheri A. Jansen, 45, of Corfu, is charged with DWI. Jansen's vehicle was located and stopped after police received a complaint of an erratic driver on Clinton Street on July 22. She was issued traffic tickets and released.

Andrew D. Beedham, 37, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. He was arrested following a report of a disturbance on July 23 at an undisclosed location in the City of Batavia. He allegedly violated an order of protection. He was arraigned and released.

Michelle L. Preston, 57, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Preston is accused of using another person's debit card without permission to make several online purchases. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Tyler J. Mills, 23, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Mills is accused of shoving another person and throwing an item at her during a disturbance on Washington Avenue, Batavia, on July 22. He was arraigned and released.

Frank H. Williams III, 40, of Batavia, has a warrant issued in Pennsylvania related to a drug possession charge. He was located on July 20 by Batavia PD during a traffic stop on Main Street in Batavia. He was arraigned as a fugitive from justice and ordered held pending extradition.

Niyoki T. Simmons, 51, of Rochester, is charged with aggravated DWI. Shortly before 7:30 p.m. on July 17, Batavia PD was dispatched to a report of a disturbance on Park Road in a parking lot. Simmons was allegedly found operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Shannon M. Armstead, 30, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Armstead was arrested after an investigation into a disturbance on July 18 where she allegedly damaged numerous items inside a residence in an undisclosed part of Batavia. Armstead was arraigned and released on her own recognizance.

Christine M. Caplis, 43, of Elba, is charged with petit larceny. Caplis is accused of stealing another person's mobile phone on July 21. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Andrew J. Draper, 44, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court.  Draper was initially arrested on Aug. 24, 2022, on a charge of criminal contempt 1st, after allegedly violating an order of protection. He was issued an appearance ticket, but failed to appear in court. The warrant was issued on Sept 22, 2022. On July 29, Draper was located and arrested. He was arraigned in City Court. His release status is unknown.

George J. Budzinack, 43, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th. On June 17, Budzinack was allegedly found in possession of a stolen mobile phone. He was arrested on Aug. 3 following an investigation. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Kayla M. Geissler, 31, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. She is accused of stealing merchandise from Tops in Batavia on Aug. 1. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Weldon J. Ervin, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and obstruction of governmental administration 2nd. On Aug. 1, Batavia PD responded to Richmond Avenue and North Lyon Street in Batavia to investigate a report of a suspicious vehicle. During the investigation, Ervin was identified as the front-seat passenger, and officers found that there was an order of protection in place in respect to the driver of the vehicle. When police attempted to arrest Ervin, he reportedly fled on foot. He was taken into custody a short time later at a residence on Oak Street. He was arraigned and jailed on $5,000 bail, $10,000 bond, or $20,000 partially secured bond.

Matthew P. Parker, 33, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Parker is accused of shoplifting from Tops in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Amber L. Turner, 30, and Angela M. Samson, 42, both of Batavia, are both charged with making graffiti. Turner and Samson are accused of spray painting a sidewalk on South Main Street, Batavia. They were issued appearance tickets.

Jason T. Knickerbocker, 32, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Knickerbocker was initially arrested on April 23, 2022, after an investigation into an incident on Feb. 7, 2022, where he was allegedly found to be operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs. A warrant was issued on April 12 after Knickerbocker allegedly failed to appear for a court appearance. He was arrested on July 29. He was arraigned and ordered to reappear in court at a later date.

Savannah T. Parsons, 19, of Groveland, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Parsons was initially charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 2nd, along with several other traffic offenses, following a traffic stop at Center Street and Main Street on March 4. The warrant was issued after Parsons allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in City Court. A plea agreement was reached, and Parsons was released.

Jarrod A. Grimmelt, 27, of Attica, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Grimmelt was initially charged on July 26 and charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd following a traffic stop on Law Street, Batavia. The warrant was issued after Grimmelt allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court, fined and released.

Bonjier M. Albaram, 27, of Rochester, is arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Albaram was initially charged on Feb. 18 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd and speeding following a traffic stop on Ellicott Street. The warrant was issued after Albaram allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arrested on July 24 and arraigned in City Court, where he was fined and released.

Crystal A. Mounts, 46, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Mounts was initially arrested in April of 2022. She was accused of stealing a package off a porch on Ross Street. She allegedly failed to appear in court, and a warrant was issued on Sept 29. Mounts was arraigned and ordered to return to court at a later date.

Shawn Michael Blanc, 29, of Warsaw, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and parked on a highway. Blanc was stopped by Deputy Austin Herberlein on Colby Road on Aug. 2 at 12:03 a.m. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Karli P. Teitsch, 31, of Cedarvale Road, Syracuse, is charged with felony DWI, felony driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, aggravated unlicensed operation, circumventing an interlock device, and unlicensed operation. Teitsch was stopped at 12:50 a.m. on July 18 on Route 77 in Darien by Deputy Jeremy McClellan. Teitsch was released on an appearance ticket.

Thomas Michael Tacito, 63, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with arson 5th. Tacito is accused of starting a fire at 1:02 p.m. on July 28 that burned items owned by the Relax Inn at 8212 Park Road, Batavia. He was arraigned and ordered held. 

Duane E. Andrews, 47, of Niagara Falls, is charged with criminal contempt 1st and aggravated family offense. Andrews allegedly struck another person violating an order of protection at 10:47 p.m. on Aug. 1 at a location on Park Road, Batavia. He was arraigned and ordered to reappear at a later date.

Marcus Christopher Taylor, 33, of Viking Way, Brockport, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Taylor was stopped at 2:05 a.m. on Aug. 3 on Route 33 in the Town of Stafford by Deputy Ryan Mullen.

Katherine Frances Donohue, 29, of Mercer Avenue, Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving left of pavement markings, moving lane unsafely, and following too close. Donohue was stopped at 11:30 p.m. on Aug. 4 on Genesee Street in Pembroke by Jacob Kipler. She was released on appearance tickets.

Brandon Michael Poth, 29, of Regal Street, Depew, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Poth was stopped by Sgt. Mathew Clor at 11:32 p.m. on Aug. 4 outside the Darien Lake Amphitheater following a citizen complaint. Poth was released on appearance tickets.

Christopher James Parker, 34, of Batavia Elba Townline Road, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment 2nd. Parker is accused of shoving a woman in front of their children during a disturbance reported at 11:50 a.m. on Aug. 8 at a location on Batavia Elba Townline Road. He was held pending arraignment.

Adam C. Gilley, 32, of West Seneca, is charged with driving with a BAC of .08 or higher. Gilley was stopped by State Police at 10:35 a.m. on Aug. 3 in the Town of Darien. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Seven arrests made at 50 Cent concert at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following subjects were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the 50 Cent concert on Aug 5 at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center:

Terrance L. Falk, 24, of Woodsmeadow Lane, Rochester, is charged with assault 2nd after allegedly punching a female and knocking her unconscious.  Terrance was arrested and held for arraignment

Eliecer Angulo, 27, of Haddon Road, Rochester, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd after allegedly kicking over a fence to enter a restricted area of the venue.

Stephen J. Hunter, 38, of Demunn Road, Beaver Damns, is charged with harassment 2nd after allegedly pushing and fighting with Darien Lake security.

Tyrell T. Lynch, 35 of 10th Street, Niagara Falls, is charged with harassment 2nd after allegedly pushing a Darien Lake security officer.

Megan L. Kendall, 34, of Lilac Street, Buffalo, is charged with obstructing governmental administration 2nd after allegedly interfering with deputies making an arrest. 

Jayson P. Lazan, 46 of Folger Street, Buffalo, is charged with harassment 2nd after allegedly punching another concert patron.

Giovanni E. Paige-Mota, 21, of Glide Street, Rochester, is charged with obstructing governmental administration 2nd, harassment 2nd and disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance and then fighting with deputies. 

Law and Order: Batavia resident accused of owning six unlicensed, feces-covered dogs

By Howard B. Owens

Rulee A. Allyn, 60, of Batavia, is charged with six counts of owning an unlicensed dog and six counts of failure to provide sustenance to animals. On the morning of July 12, Officers were called to Brooklyn Avenue, Batavia, for a report of numerous dogs running loose in the area. Officers located five dogs and were able to contain them. They were determined to belong to Allyn. A sixth dog was located in Allyn’s residence. All the dogs were allegedly covered in feces and were not being properly cared for. Allyn was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear.

Jason Eric Howard, 38, of Millison Crescent Street, Angus, Ontario, Canada, is charged with trespass and disorderly conduct.  Howard is accused of remaining on Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park property after being told to leave by security staff. He is also accused of yelling obscenities and "causing a public inconvenience by making unreasonable noise." He was issued an appearance ticket.

Michael J. Torres, 39, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd and obstructing governmental administration. Police officers spotted Torres riding a bicycle at 5:30 p.m. on July 12 on Ellicott Street near Ellicott Place.  Officers were aware the Sheriff's Office was looking for Torres, who had a warrant out for his arrest. When officers attempted to stop him, Torres allegedly fled on his bike. Officers followed him onto Colorado Avenue, where he crashed his bicycle into a patrol vehicle. He then attempted to flee on foot, according to police, but was taken into custody a short distance away. Torres was allegedly found in possession of multiple bags of a narcotic and a large sum of cash. Torres was arraigned and released. He is due back in court at a later date. 

Juan Nieves, 31, of Parkside Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with felony DWI, felony driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, driving a vehicle with a revoked registration, driving without insurance, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Nieves was apparently (it's not mentioned in the Sheriff's Office press release) in an accident at an undisclosed location on Main Street in Pembroke at 5:53 p.m. on July 9. Nieves was arrested by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. His release status was not disclosed. 

Cassandra L. Elmore, 31, of Batavia, was arrested on a pair of warrants issued by City Court. The first case is the result of a traffic stop on Aug. 30, 2022. Elmore was charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon 4th, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd, operating without an inspection certificate, insufficient tail lamps, two counts of criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd, failure to change address and depositing refuse on the highway. Elmore was issued appearance tickets and released. She allegedly failed to appear in court, and a warrant was issued on Sept. 8. She was arrested on that warrant on Sept. 10. During that arrest, Elmore allegedly fought with a police officer and was additionally charged with obstructing governmental administration. Warrants were issued in both cases on Jan. 23, after Elmore allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arrested on Feb. 2. Warrants were again issued on Feb. 21, after she failed to appear in court. On July 14, Elmore was located at a residence on River Street and arrested. She was additionally charged with two counts of bail jumping 3rd. She was arraigned and remanded to the custody of the Genesee County Jail. 

Phillip Ashley Ruffin, 50, of Main Street, Niagara Falls, is charged with felony DWI and parking on a highway. Ruffin was allegedly found in his vehicle at 1:57 a.m. on July 15, parked in the middle of the roadway on Redfield Parkway with his emergency flashers activated Sgt. Mathew Clor. Ruffin was held pending arraignment.

Jamonte O. Murrell, 19, of Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd. Murrell is accused of cutting another person during a disturbance on July 19 at a residence on Watson Street, Batavia. He was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance.

Ahdeosun R. Aiken, 25, of Attica, and Amanda J. Jackson, 22, of Batavia, are charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Aiken and Jackson are accused of engaging in sexual conduct in a vehicle on July 8 at a location not released by police while a one-year-old child was in the vehicle. They were both issued appearance tickets.

Richard A. Demmer, 30, of Batavia, was arrested on a City Court warrant on July 13. Demmer was originally arrested on May 29 and charged with Attempted Robbery 3rd. It’s alleged that he entered a local business and demanded money from the clerk. The warrant was issued on July 12 after Demmer allegedly failed to appear in court. He was located by Police on July 13 at the location of an unrelated incident. He was arraigned and ordered to reappear at a later date.

Richard Allen Demmer, Jr., 30, of South Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Demmer is accused of stealing merchandise from the East Pembroke Crosby's on Main Road, Pembroke at 8:20  a.m. on July 18. During his arrest by Chief Deputy Joseph Graff, he was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. Demmer was released on an appearance ticket. 

Benjamin G. Evans, 34, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Evans is accused of stealing a package from the porch of a residence on State Street On July 8. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jordan A. Baxter, no age nor address provided, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and criminal trespass 2nd. Baxter is accused of entering the residence of another person in violation of an order of protection on July 8. He was arraigned and ordered held on $1,000 bail, $2,000 bond, or a $5,000 partially secured bond.

Ronald W. Lewis, 35, of Rochester, is charged with petit larceny. Lewis is accused of stealing from a local business on July 7. He was issued an appearance ticket. 

Crystal M. Boute. 34, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Boute is accused of damaging another person's mobile phone during an argument in the parking lot of a local business. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Brian M. Raphael, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Raphael is accused of stealing from a business on West Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Lance D Beals, 53, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and criminal mischief 4th. Beals is accused of stealing a mobile phone from another person and intentionally damaging it. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Karina M. Treleaven, 39, of Batavia, is charged with felony DWI, moving from lane unsafely, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Treleaven was reportedly involved in a one-vehicle accident at 11:30 p.m. on July 11 in the 300 block of Washington Avenue, Batavia. A vehicle allegedly driven by Treleaven struck a parked car.  The driver fled on foot, and officers located Treleaven nearby the accident a short time later and determined she was the driver of the vehicle and was allegedly drunk at the time of the accident. Treleaven was previously convicted of DWI on June 1. She was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

Michelle L. Misiak, 58, of Le Roy, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Misiak was initially charged with petit larceny on Sept. 27 for allegedly stealing from Aldi on East Main Street, Batavia. The warrant was issued on March 10 after she allegedly failed to appear in court. On July 12, Misiak was located by the Village of Leroy Police and turned over to Batavia Police. She was additionally charged with Bail Jumping 3rd and arraigned in  City Court. She was held on bail and remanded to the custody of the Genesee County Jail.

Mason Andrew Hogle, 19, of Lockport Road, Oakfield, is charged with petit larceny. Hogle is accused of shoplifting from Walmart at 1 p.m. on July 6. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Maurice Richard McCoy, 70, of North Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. McCoy was stopped at 6:13 p.m. on July 2 on Veterans Memorial Drive by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Sara Marie Conrow, 34, of Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and an unregistered vehicle. Conrow was charged following an investigation by Deputy Austin Heberlein at the Speedway Truck Stop on Route 77 in the Town of Pembroke on July 13 at 2:35 a.m. Conrow was issued an appearance ticket.

Nathaniel Ashton Finta, 18, of North Main Street, Oakfield, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd. Finta was arrested in connection with an incident reported at 3:30 a.m. on July 11 at a location on North Main Street, Oakfield. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on the alleged incident. Finta was held pending arraignment.

Derek John Machala, 28, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with trespass. Machala is accused of remaining unlawfully on a property at 8:39 p.m. on July 16. He was held pending arraignment.

Benjamin Gove Evans, 34, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Evans was arrested in connection with an incident reported at 9:45 p.m. on July 17. The Sheriff's Office did not release information about the alleged incident. The address of the location, somewhere on Veterans Memorial Drive, was redacted from the release. Evans was released on an appearance ticket.

Jada Lee Coursey, 32, of West Fifth Avenue, Warren, Pa., is charged with harassment 2nd and endangering the welfare of a child. Coursey is accused of striking another person in front of a child while at Darin Lake at 11:35 p.m. on July 17. Coursey was issued an appearance ticket.

Joshua Lee Jones, 41, of Auburn, is charged with disorderly conduct. Jones is accused of being involved in a disturbance at Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park on July 19 at 9:46 p.m. He was released on an appearance ticket.

O'Neil Dejusus Cruz, 34, of Poplar Avenue, Mineral, Va., is charged with DWI drugs.  Following a driving complaint called into dispatchers at 8:21 p.m. on July 21, Cruz was allegedly found by Deputy David Moore on Alleghany Road, Pembroke, operating a semi-truck while his ability was impaired by drugs. Cruz was issued an appearance ticket.

Joseph Lowell Hampton, 26, of Myrtle Street, Le Roy, is charged with harassment 2nd. Hampton allegedly pushed a former friend at 1 a.m. on July 19 at a location on Myrtle Street, Le Roy. Hampton was arraigned, and an order of protection was issued.

Joseph Thaddeus Martino, 31, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with attempted assault 3rd.  Martino was arrested at the Genesee County Jail. It's unclear from the Sheriff's Office press release if he was an inmate. The incident was reported at 5:05 p.m. on July 22. There were no other details about the alleged incident released. Martino was issued an appearance ticket.

Daniel Jay Torok, Jr., 36, of Liberty Avenue, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Torok was arrested by Deputy Ryan Mullen in connection with an incident reported at 11:40 p.m. on July 22 at the Genesee County Jail. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on what led to the arrest of Torok. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Kasondra Lynn Hubbard, 38, of Gilbert Street, Le Roy, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving drunk with a child in the vehicle, and endangering the welfare of a child. Hubbard was stopped at 10:16 p.m. on July 22 on Gilbert Street, Le Roy, by Deputy Mason Shultz. Hubbard was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Laurin Angeline Moro, 21, of Kalar Road, Niagara Falls, is charged with trespass. Moro was arrested at Darien Lake on July 15 at 8:30 p.m. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on events that led to her arrest. Moro was issued an appearance ticket.

Brian Michael Raphael, 35, of Fisher Park, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Raphael is accused of concealing merchandise while at Tractor Supply Co. on East Main Street Road, Batavia, and attempting to leave the store without paying for the merchandise. Raphael was arrested by Deputy Zachary Hoy and released on an appearance ticket. 

Thomas Anthony Salerno, 56, of Hall Road, Lancaster, is charged with DWI and insufficient tail lamps. Salerno was stopped at 9:39 pm. on July 29 on Route 20 in Darien by Deputy Jacob Kipler. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Adam Troy Shipwash, 42, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Shipwash was arrested in connection with an incident reported at 1:50 p.m. on July 30 at a location on Terry Street, Byron. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on events that led to the charge. Shipwash was released on an appearance ticket.

Two arrests at Sam Hunt concert

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested on July 15 at the Sam Hunt Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center.

Laurin A. Moro, 21, of Kalar Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. Moro was charged with trespass after allegedly entering the area of the concert venue after being advised several times to leave the venue and not return.

Emma J. Chiavaroli, 19, of Grouse Point, Webster, is charged with trespass after allegedly entering the area of the concert venue after being advised several times to leave the venue and not return.

Brett Young brings decade of hits, new album rooted in domestic bliss to Darien Lake

By Alan Sculley
brett young
Brett Young
Photo by Red Media

When Brett Young began work on his latest album, “Weekends Look A Little Different These Days,” he faced a whole new challenge as a songwriter. He had strived to be authentic in his writing, delving into subject matter that allowed him to draw from his personal experiences.

But that approach wasn’t going to work on the “Weekends” album, especially if he was trying to write about where his life is now.

Married to his long-time girlfriend, which he literally says is the love of his life, and a father of two little girls, Young knew his happy life wouldn’t make for a compelling album.

“It would have been really tempting to just write basically a lullabies record, love songs about my wife and songs about my children,” Young said in a late-April phone interview. “So the challenge was that you can’t write just about what you’re going through in your life right now. That’s going to be boring.”

Fortunately for Young, he was working with some co-writers who have been around the block and knew how to put an authentic personal touch on a lyric and honestly convey a variety of emotions over the course of an album.

“It’s hard when you’re in the happiest place in your life, and you’ve got to still write a sad song, and we did,” Young said. “We did that, but we did it through a lot of conversations. I’d get in with a songwriter or a couple of songwriters, and I’d be like, ‘Tell me about your worst heartbreak. Explain that to me.’ We started having to go down that path, and that was a new stage of songwriting for me. Don’t just do what you’re feeling right now; here’s a topic, go back to a place where you did feel this way and write it. And we did that. I think it stretched me in a really good way as a songwriter.”

This new approach to songwriting is very evident on “Weekends Look A Little Different These Days,” and Young has essentially crafted an album that touches on the long and winding road he has traveled with his wife, Taylor.

Young, though, didn’t want to tell a linear story about his history with Taylor. Instead, the songs on “Weekends” feel like snapshots from various moments of their journey, which included three breakups before they decided they truly should be together.

“For us, our story wasn’t linear anyway,” Young said. “I met Taylor, this Thanksgiving, it will be 16 years ago. So we have a long, storied history.”

The album culminates with the song “This,” which describes how the life Young and Taylor have now has made the heartaches and good times from their dating years completely worth it.

“That one really fell out quick,” Young said of “This.” “It got me talking about my family (with Taylor), and it immediately made me realize it doesn’t matter, three breakups, 20 breakups, whatever, it was all part of our journey to get here, to this.”

Like his history with Taylor, Young’s musical life has been a journey that had its share of frustrations before things fell into place for the 42-year-old singer/songwriter.

He began by playing covers of other peoples’ songs, first at restaurants and other venues around his Orange County, California, home base and later in the big city of Los Angeles, while he independently released a pair of EPs and three albums, hoping to get a record deal.

But Young’s career remained stuck in neutral until he realized his songs actually were well suited to country music, and he moved to Nashville. There, Young quickly made contacts and, within nine months, signed with Big Machine Records.

In short order, he was in a studio making his self-titled debut album with noted producer Dann Huff. The album’s advance single, “Sleep Without You,” reached No. 2 on “Billboard” magazine’s Country Airplay chart. Then another single, “In Case You Didn’t Know,” topped the Country Airplay chart and went top 20 on “Billboard’s” all genre Hot 100 chart. The hits have kept coming since, with his second album, “Ticket To L.A.,” adding “Here Tonight” and “Catch” and “Weekends Look A Little Different These Days” adding “Lady” to his list of chart-topping singles.

For a while, Young worried that he might have to leave even some of his popular ballads out of his concerts to keep his shows from getting too sleepy for audiences. But as his current shows demonstrate, he’s found that his fans aren’t worried about the pace of his concerts.

“What we’ve found out is that people aren’t thinking about that at my shows. They bought a Brett Young ticket. They know the music,” Young said. “They came to hear the music that they know. So every time we try to kind of inauthentically ramp it up for the sake of ramping it up, they’ve felt like they missed out on a song or two they wanted to hear. So it’s been less about the setlist and more about paying attention to my fan base and what they’re actually coming to the show for.”

Brett Young performs at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Saturday.

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