In celebration of National Pizza Day and in a show of support and respect for law enforcement on Friday, Assemblyman Steve Hawley had pizza delivered to several law enforcement agencies in his district, including a personal stop to deliver pizza to the Batavia Police Department.

“From the state troopers to local departments, our police officers are a vital part of our community’s safety,” said Hawley. “Far too often, we take their service for granted, but events like this are a small way to help give back and show our appreciation for their hard work.”

Other departments receiving pizza included:

• Albion Police Department
• Batavia Police Department
• Brockport Police Department
• Corfu Village Police Department
• Genesee County Sheriff's Office
• Holley Police Department
• Le Roy Police Department
• Medina Police Department
• NYSP - Troop A Albion Barracks|
• NYSP - Troop A Batavia HQ Orleans County Sheriff's Office

Members of Genesee County's law enforcement community were at Batavia Towne Center Saturday for the annual Stuff the Cruiser event.

Shoppers are asked during the event to donate gifts that will be distributed for Christmas to families in Genesee County.

Last year, the event assisted 450 local families.

Officers said that by mid-afternoon, in sunny weather, this year appeared to be a banner year for donations.

At Terry Hills on Friday, the Genesee County STOP-DWI Advisory Board recognized the county's "top cops" for their efforts to help keep drunken drivers off the roadways as well as nine local students for the STOP-DWI posters.

Troop A of the New York State Police honored those troopers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty in a ceremony at the Batavia Barracks on Tuesday.

Photos courtesy of the New York State Police.

At Thursday's recognition luncheon held at Batavia Country Club, the Kiwanis Club of Batavia announced recipients of the 2023 Criminal Justice Awards. 

 The Kiwanis Club of Batavia Criminal Justice Award is presented to a member or members of the community, law enforcement, or a criminal justice agency serving the citizens of Genesee County whose exceptional career achievements and conscientiousness to citizenship have demonstrated a spirit of selfless public service or demonstrated an act of exceptional valor or heroism.

 The 2023 Award Recipients are:

Investigator Erik B. Andre, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office  
Investigator Erik B. Andre began his career with the Genesee County Sheriff's Office in November of 2017, when he was hired as a Deputy Sheriff.  He brought with him prior law enforcement experience as he had previously worked as a Police Officer for the Village of Attica Police Department.  Investigator Andre's work ethic and law enforcement knowledge were quickly evident and led to his selection as a Field Training Officer.  Investigator Andre continued to perform his duties as a Deputy Sheriff to the highest standard, and in January 2022, he was promoted to the rank of Investigator.

Investigator Andre presents a calm demeanor and is a consistent example of professionalism.  Investigator Andre is a member of the Crisis Negotiator Team, where his ability to remain composed in high-stress situations is a valued resource.  Investigator Andre goes beyond the call of duty and shows a true commitment to the community.  Among his investigative duties, Investigator Andre has proactively developed and pursued several investigations involving retail theft crimes, which have led to arrests and successful prosecutions.  He takes pride in his work, he is an advocate for crime victims, and strives for an equitable outcome in his investigations.  In addition to his investigative responsibilities, Investigator Andre acts as a departmental Firearms Instructor and an Electronic Control Device Instructor.  He has been the recipient of a Sheriff’s Office Meritorious Service Award and a Commendation.  Investigator Andre was nominated for this award by Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. and Chief Deputy Joseph Graff.

Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer 
Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer has been a member of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office since 2007.  For the past six years, John has supervised the afternoon shift of the Emergency Services Dispatch Center, a shift that receives a high-call volume and regularly deals with crisis situations.  Senior Dispatcher Spencer's experience and knowledge are recognized during these high-stress calls for service.  He makes sure the appropriate equipment and personnel are notified and dispatched, which is a valuable asset to first responders. 

John has been the recipient of a Sheriff's Office Meritorious Service Award recognizing his excellent leadership and guidance for dispatchers, especially newer dispatchers. John has also received five Sheriff's Office Commendations which has proven his professionalism, compassion, and dedication to the citizens of Genesee County and Emergency Services.  Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer was nominated for this award by Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. and Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur.

Officer Jason Ivison, City of Batavia Police Department 
Police Officer Jason Ivison (top photo) has been employed by the City of Batavia for over 12 years.  He has excelled as an officer on road patrol where he served as one of the department’s primary Field Training Officers and was then promoted to Detective in 2019.  Since that time, Detective Ivison has developed into a key member of the Detective Bureau.  Detective Ivison has worked many high-profile investigations which have led to numerous arrests. Detective Ivison is known for completing thorough casework, which ultimately contributes to successful prosecutions in court.  Through his work, Detective Ivison has shown he is committed to seeking justice on behalf of the victims in his cases.  In addition to working his caseload, Detective Ivison also manages the City of Batavia's Sex Offender Registry.  Detective Ivison should be commended for his superior performance on behalf of the City of Batavia Police Department and the community in which he serves. Officer Davis was nominated for this award by City of Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch.

Trooper Bradley Maderer, New York State Police 
On December 23, 2022, during the harshest conditions of Winter Storm Elliott, Trooper Bradley Maderer, along with Probationary Trooper Sean Ogden, responded to Judge Rd (SR 63) in the Town of Alabama for at least 25 occupied, disabled vehicles, both in and off the roadway.  Time was a factor as plows were unable to clear the roadway, and some vehicles' gas levels were getting low.  Trooper Maderer located a resident who allowed their heated garage to be used as a temporary shelter.  Unable to effectively navigate the scene with his patrol vehicle, Trooper Maderer and Probationary Trooper Ogden patrolled on foot, checking the occupants of each vehicle. While experiencing below-freezing temperatures, extreme wind and snowfall, the Troopers guided the disabled vehicle occupants to the makeshift warming shelter or checked on them periodically if they wished to remain in their vehicles. Trooper Maderer remained on scene throughout the night at the shelter to ensure the safety of all citizens.  Trooper Maderer’s relentless effort undoubtedly saved lives, and he should be commended for his actions.  He played an integral part in the NYS Police response and was a big reason why there were no fatalities in Genesee County during Winter Storm Elliott.  Trooper Maderer was nominated for this award by New York State Police Zone Sergeant Benjamin Fasano.   

Deputy County Attorney Paula Campbell
Deputy County Attorney Paula Campbell’s dedication, professionalism, and knowledge of the law makes her a true asset to Genesee County.  She is always willing to educate others about the law, including employees, school officials, workers at the Child Advocacy Center, etc.  Ms. Campbell visited all the school districts in Genesee County to explain to staff the education requirements for abuse and neglect cases.  She also educated school staff on PINS/JD requirements, Raise the Age and other laws.  Recently, Ms. Campbell was made a supervisor within her department.  She is professional, empathetic and is always available after hours for situations that arise.  Paula Campbell was nominated for this award by Genesee County Department of Social Services Child Protection Supervisor Sandy Wojtaszczyk.

Charles L. Mancuso Mock Trial Award
The “Charles L. Mancuso Award” was presented to the members of the LeRoy High School Mock Trial Team as winners of the 2023 GLOW (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties) District Competition in the New York State Bar Association High School Mock Trial Tournament.  The award reads “Dedicated to the Memory of an Outstanding Attorney-Citizen”, Mr. Mancuso, a Batavia lawyer, served as coordinator of the local competition until his untimely death 16 years ago.  

The LeRoy High School team members honored at the luncheon include Jacqueline Arneth, Elaina Blake, Addison Burnside, Matthew Covert, Michael Covert, Katelynn Everett, Simeon Fisher, Andrew Greene, Meredith Ianni, Allie Ingles, Lyla Jones, Zachary Kirby, Maureen Klaiber, Ethan LaBabara, Daniel Mark, Molly Osterman, Anina Pabros, Emily Rigdon, Jack Tonzi, Carolyn Wujcik, Gabriella Zitz, Teacher-Coach Taylor Netchke.  The coordinator of the local Mock Trial Program, Kristie DeFreze, presented the award.

Note: Our apologies to Paula Campbell, and the Le Roy Mock Trial team. Because of a photographer's error, we don't have pictures of Campbell or the team.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation that designated May 15 as National Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as National Police Week.  

The Genesee County Legislature issued a proclamation to officers from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia City Police Department and LeRoy Village Police Department (Corfu Village Police Department were unable to attend) at last Wednesday night’s meeting recognizing May 15 – 21, 2022, as National Police Week.  The Old County Courthouse cupola lights have been changed to blue to acknowledge this week. 

Law enforcement officers are always prepared to respond and aid our residents, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  This week honors all those in the law enforcement profession for the countless hours each officer dedicates to the community in which they serve.    

Sheriff Sheron asks that if you see a police officer, please take the time to acknowledge his/her service.

The Genesee County STOP-DWI Coordinator announced today that the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Batavia Police Department and the Village of LeRoy Police Department will be participating in a coordinated effort with the STOP-DWI program to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.

The Super Bowl is America’s most-watched national sporting event and Super Bowl Weekend is historically a deadly period for impaired driving. In a combined effort to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives law enforcement officers across New York State and STOP-DWI programs will be participating in special engagement efforts.  The statewide STOP-DWI efforts start today Friday, Feb. 11, and will end on Monday, Feb. 14.

Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving.

Remember:  Impaired driving is completely preventable.  All it takes is a little planning.  If you are impaired by drugs or alcohol and thinking about driving, pass your keys on to a sober driver.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today used National Pizza Day as an opportunity to show his appreciation for the work local police departments within his district have done to protect their communities by sending pizzas from local shops to numerous departments.

“Our officers put their lives on the line daily to protect us and our neighbors, and it must be said their work has only grown more challenging in the last several years,” said Hawley. “When I learned that National Pizza Day was coming up, I knew that it was a chance to give back, so it was my honor to provide some nourishment to our hard-working officers. While it is unfortunate I was not able to deliver the pizzas to the departments myself, having a legislative session to attend to today, I hope our law enforcement professionals are able to find some time to enjoy a slice.”

Hawley sent pizzas to the following departments today:

• Albion Police Department
• Holley Police Department
• Medina Police Department
• Orleans County Sheriff’s Department
• NYS Police Troop A-Albion Barracks
• Brockport Police Department
• City of Batavia Police Department
• LeRoy Police Department
• Village of Corfu Police Department
• Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
• NYS Police Troop A- Batavia Barracks

Press release:

Officer of the Year Award – Deputy David D. Moore

Deputy Sheriff David D. Moore has distinguished himself in the performance of service to the citizens of

Genesee County during 2021.  Deputy Moore is a seven-year member of the Sheriff’s Office, with three and a half of those years on Road Patrol.  Deputy Moore is a consistent, professional Deputy who always presents a positive image to those he deals with, no matter the circumstances.  Deputy Moore has strived to gain more knowledge of the job and has been able to share that with newer Deputies as a Field Training Officer.  Deputy Moore’s dedication to traffic safety is evident in his impaired driving enforcement and being certified as a Drug Recognition Expert.  

Deputy Sheriff David D. Moore has reflected great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s

Office and most deserves to be named Officer of the Year.

Photo – Officer of the Year Deputy David D. Moore

From left to right:  Assistant Director of Emergency Communications/Operations Francis A. Riccobono, Chief Deputy Road Patrol Brian M. Frieday, Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur, Deputy Sheriff David D. Moore, Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr., Chief Deputy Criminal Investigations Joseph M. Graff, Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel, Director of Emergency Communications Steven C. Sharpe.

Distinguished Service Award – Matthew R. Burgett

Senior Correction Officer Matthew R. Burgett has distinguished himself as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office for over sixteen years. 

Senior Correction Officer Burgett began his career at the Genesee County Jail on January 22, 2005, and was promoted to Senior Correction Officer on February 22, 2014.  During his career, he was the recipient of a Meritorious Service award for his professionalism and dedication and has consistently performed in an

outstanding manner which has led to the betterment of the Genesee County Jail.  His positive attitude and willingness to assist other officers has been consistent over several years.  Senior Correction Officer Burgett leads by example and is respected by his co-workers.

Senior Correction Officer Matthew R. Burgett reflects great credit upon himself and the Genesee County

Distinguished Service Award – Chad J. Minuto

Investigator Chad J. Minuto has distinguished himself as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office for over eighteen years. 

Investigator Minuto began his career as a Correction Officer at the Genesee County Jail on March 20, 1999, was appointed Deputy Sheriff in 2005, and promoted to Investigator in 2015.  During this time, he has been the recipient of a Meritorious Service award, two Commendations, and Officer of the Year for his professionalism and dedication.  Throughout his career, Investigator Minuto has performed his duties to the highest standard.  He has accepted additional responsibilities without hesitation which includes maintaining the evidence room for several years.  Investigator Minuto is looked upon as the Sheriff’s Office lead evidence technician and carries these duties out at serious crime scenes.  He is often called when off duty to answer questions from other Deputies and provides answers without fail or complaint.  He is a trusted member of this Office and sets the bar for others.

Investigator Chad J. Minuto reflects great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Photo – Distinguished Service Award – Investigator Chad J. Minuto

From left to right:  Assistant Director of Emergency Communications/Operations Francis A. Riccobono, Chief Deputy Road Patrol Brian M. Frieday, Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur, Investigator Chad J. Minuto, Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr., Chief Deputy Criminal Investigations Joseph M. Graff, Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel, Director of Emergency Communications Steven C. Sharpe.

Certificates of Appreciation

Pastor Corey Hancock

Jessica Mitchell

Patricia Famiglietti

Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester

Perry Veterinary Clinic

Volunteers for Animals

The Sportsmans Coonhunters Association

Longevity Awards

Emergency Services Dispatcher Peggy D. Richardson

10 years

Emergency Services Dispatcher Kelly E. Smith

10 years

Emergency Services Dispatcher Andrew K. Merkel

10 years

Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer

15 years

Youth Officer Howard J. Carlson

15 years

Community Victim Services Counselor Rosanne M. DeMare

15 years

Cook Lynn J. Jakubowski

15 years

Emergency Services Dispatcher Nathan L. Fix

15 years

Correction Officer Anthony J. Ridder

20 years

Correction Officer Philip A. Mangefrida

20 years

Senior Correction Officer Kevin D. Wolff

20 years

Chief Deputy Brian M. Frieday

25 years

Deputy Sheriff Cory W. Mower

25 years

Deputy Sheriff Patrick J. Reeves

25 years

Meritorious Awards

Deputy Sheriff Chad P. Cummings

1^st

Program Coordinator Theresa M. Roth

1^st

Financial Management Assistant Tammy M. Schmidt

1^st

Case Manager Erin M. Martin

1^st

Youth Officer Howard J. Carlson

2^nd

Case Manager Nicole M. Easton

2^nd

Commendations

Deputy Sheriff Kenneth A. Quackenbush III

1^st

Emergency Services Dispatcher Shelby M. Turner

1^st

Emergency Services Dispatcher Jennifer M. Kirkum

1^st

Emergency Services Dispatcher Stephen R. Smelski

1^st

Financial Clerk-Typist Tracy L. Ranney

1^st

Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart

1^st

Correction Officer Adam C. Snow

1^st

Deputy Sheriff Travis M. DeMuth

1^st

Emergency Services Dispatcher Marie A. Vaughn

1^st & 2^nd

Emergency Services Dispatcher Emily K. Moskal

1^st & 2^nd

Emergency Services Dispatcher Fleur R.C. Remington

2^nd

Deputy Sheriff Joshua A. Brabon

2^nd

Emergency Services Dispatcher Peggy D. Richardson

2^nd

Emergency Services Dispatcher Samantha L. Conibear

2^nd

Assistant Director of Emergency

Communications/Operations Francis A. Riccobono

2^nd

Deputy Sheriff Robert C. Henning

2^nd

Correction Officer Michael A. Cox

3^rd

Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Michael T. Sheflin

4^th

Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer

5^th

Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp

8^th

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation, which designated May 15 as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as National Police Week.  

Typically, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, D.C., to participate in a number of planned events that honor those officers that have paid the ultimate sacrifice during this week.  

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these events have been postponed until October this year. There are virtual events being held all week along with a virtual candlelight vigil on Thursday, May 13. Thank a police officer; recognize the fallen.

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr., City of Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch, Village of Le Roy Police Chief Greg Kellogg, along with the Genesee County Legislature, recognize this week in honor of all those in the law enforcement profession for the countless hours each officer dedicates to the community in which they serve.  

The Genesee County Legislature will be issuing a proclamation at its Wednesday night meeting recognizing May 9 – 15, 2021, as National Police Week. The lights on the Old County Courthouse cupola will be changed to blue to acknowledge this week.  

Law enforcement officers are always prepared to respond and aid our residents, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  

“We commend the men and women of the law enforcement community for their selfless dedication to the protection of the citizens and communities they serve.  May God bless them and their families. Please take a moment and join us in paying tribute to these tremendous individuals and remember those that have given the ultimate sacrifice,” said Sheriff Sheron, Chief Heubusch and Chief Kellogg in a jointly issued statement.