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Sheriff's Office

Sheriff's Office Civil and Records Office closed on Friday while staff honors Sgt. Sanfratello

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Civil/Records oOffice will be temporarily closing at noon on Friday, March 15.

For all non-Civil/Records matters, please call:

  • 585-343-5000 (non-emergency 911 Emergency Services Dispatch Center phone line)
  • 585-345-3000 (administrative phone line)
  • 9-1-1 for emergency matters

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause but truly appreciate the community’s understanding and patience while we take the afternoon to honor our fallen comrade, Civil Bureau Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello. 

The Civil/Records Office will resume normal weekday business hours (8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) on Monday, March 18.

Hard work, knowledge, dedication, kindness, and Hot Wheels: Sgt. Sanfratello remembered by those who worked with him

By Howard B. Owens

NOTE: The Batavian reached out to current and former members of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office to write up remembrances of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, who died in the line of duty while serving and protecting his community on Sunday morning.  Below are the remembrances we received. While we limited the request this round to people associated with the Sheriff's Office, we will publish more remembrances from the community if we receive a sufficient number.  We invite other first responders, whether in law enforcement, fire services, EMS, or any community group, especially those of his friends and neighbors in Alexander, where he served as a town board member, to submit remembrances.  Email your statements to howard@thebatavian.com, and please be sure to include at least "Sanfratello" in the subject line.  If we receive a sufficient number by Friday evening, we will try to have them published by Saturday morning.  Please also include your full name and any appropriate title in the body of the email.

Former Sheriff Gary Maha:

When I received the phone call early Sunday morning from a deputy, who was assigned to make notifications of Sgt. Tom Sanfratello’s death, I was shocked.  I thought to myself that if this were going to happen to someone, it wouldn’t be Sergeant Sanfratello. He was outgoing, very friendly to everyone and easy to get along with. However, he knew how to do his job and would do it well. It has been very emotional as it has been with his family, friends and especially current and past members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office who knew and worked with Tom. 

I remember when I hired him as a deputy sheriff in 1996. He was a young, thin guy working in dispatch. I am sure some thought why did they hire him as a deputy! I watched him mature, gain knowledge, and experience, and become an excellent officer. He was promoted to sergeant in 2007 and became an excellent road patrol supervisor and supervisor of the Civil Bureau. 

He loved working for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and loved being a law enforcement officer. As someone said, “he would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.” Tom was always dependable. If you asked him to do something, he would do it and do it right. He was instrumental in the implementation of our Public Safety Computer System and was a great source for younger officers with his 32 years of experience. He will be missed. RIP, Sergeant Sanfratello, and God Bless You.

Retired Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble:

I remember when Tommy started with the Sheriff's Office as a dispatcher.  He was a skinny, twenty-two-year-old kid.  When they hired him as a deputy sheriff, I remember thinking this is a mistake, he'll never cut it as a deputy.  I was wrong.  Tommy was like a sponge -- a quick learner, a problem solver, always wanting to know more.  

Tommy filled out physically and got involved in as many things as he could.  He was even on the SCUBA team.  He was an overtime hog, working every extra detail that he could.  I wonder how many hours he put in at Darien Lake Theme Park.  He supervised almost every concert, working closely with the theme park managers to make concert nights go as smoothly as possible, and he was fearless.  He was often first into a messy situation, leading from the front.  

Tommy had a great sense of humor, a great smile, and the laugh of someone who enjoyed life. We shared many laughs together. We also shared an addiction. We were both addicted to Mountain Dew. My wife even shared an addiction with Tom: an addiction to the video game Candy Crush. 

I am just one of many, many people who will greatly miss Tom.    

Chief Deputy Joseph Graff:

The loss of Sgt. Sanfratello has been a tragedy for his family, our law enforcement family and our community.  Tom was a valued resource. His most recent role was as the sergeant in charge of our civil division and warrants. Tom always made himself available, whether on duty or not, to answer a question or phone call and was often sought out for his expertise in civil matters.  

Tom had a remarkable ability to recall sections of the law that are not often used and had a system of organization that kept things running.  Even after 32 years in Law Enforcement, Tom was still willing to go out into our community and do the job.  Tom’s heart was evident in the annual Easter egg hunt he would hold at his home, hiding thousands of eggs and inviting the families of our office.  

It was an honor to have had the opportunity to know Tom professionally and personally. His presence will truly be missed in our lives. My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Sgt. Sanfratello. Godspeed GS 9.

Investigator Chad Minuto:

When I was approached by Howard to provide a memory or story about Tommy, it took me some time to comb through our past twenty years together.  There are so many memories together that it would be impossible to choose just one.  I think I would rather like to say a few words about my friend.  

I myself became a lot closer to Tommy over the past seven years after being promoted to Investigator. I would visit Tommy daily to bend his ear.  Tommy was the pulse of the department.  He was highly adept at how our office operated and played a crucial role in keeping the “engine running.”   Tommy was organized “In his own way” and took a systematic approach to everything he did.   Tommy was an extremely hard worker, a devoted deputy, and someone who cared deeply about the Sheriff’s Office.  His work ethic, experience, and wealth of knowledge will be irreplaceable.   

Tommy not only loved the Sheriff’s Department, but above that, he loved his family and children.  Tommy, himself, was a giant kid at heart.  He was an avid collector of Hot Wheels and Legos, often traveling across the country to attend and work at toy shows.  I remember the smile on Tommy’s face when I told him my son had become interested in Legos.  Tommy would routinely show me sneak peeks of unreleased Legos and share his duplicates of Lego mini figures with my son.  Personally, I think Tommy shared these Legos because he felt bad knowing that I would not find these in stores.  Why, you ask? Well, Tommy had likely cleaned out the inventory locally. 

These past few days have been so surreal, and it is still hard to wrap my head around the fact that Tommy is gone. I know there will be times in the weeks and months ahead when something will remind me of Tommy and stop me in my tracks. I welcome these moments, as they will ensure that I will never forget what Tommy meant to this department or me. We will miss you, GS-9!

Dispatcher Jason Holman:

Sgt. Sanfratello, the Sheriff's sergeant, provided a calm and consistent veteran command presence to our office.  He was a leader and mentor to those around him.  He had a large part in the training and development of most of the deputies and investigators we have now.  His long career and vast experience were an asset to new patrols as they came into their own.  His knowledge of the operations of our agency, both out on patrol and within the Civil and Records Departments, will be sorely missed and not easy to replace quickly.  He oversaw special detail assignments/scheduling at locations such as Darien Lake and Batavia Downs.  His command of the staff at those assignments will be difficult to replace.

He was also an advocate for the work we do in the dispatch center because of his history there.  Many times, as the first point of contact with someone in need, that dispatcher can set the tone for a call for service or demonstrate the effectiveness and professionalism of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.  Sgt. Sanfratello understood the importance of recruiting, hiring, training and retaining quality Emergency Services Dispatchers.

As a former union president, he advocated for his members. He was always searching for and often finding ways to improve the quality of life, salary, and benefits provided to our staff.

On the other side, Tom Sanfratello, the man, was a son, brother, father, uncle and, significant other, friend to many who loved him.  Outside of work, he had an affinity for collecting diecast cars, specifically Hot Wheels.  That hobby took him all over the country to shows and swap meets and garnered him a whole different community of friends and colleagues that I'm sure are also feeling the pain of his loss.  More recently, he had taken up collecting and building Lego sets.  What started as fun for him and his youngest daughter, Lexi, turned into another hobby and a large collection.  He was a family man who loved his children.  Ian recently graduated from the Corrections Officer Academy at the top of his class, and I don't think you could wipe the smile off of Tom's face that week.  He was very proud of Ian's accomplishments and the fact that he was able to work alongside him.

I'd also like to remind you that March 21 will be the one-year anniversary of Emergency Services Dispatcher Andrew Merkel's untimely passing.  Our staff is also dealing with the weight of that anniversary.  He shared many qualities with Tom and he is still sorely missed by many at our office.

Lastly, I'll leave you with something that has always struck home with me during a loss.  For those who are hurting during this:

"Keep fighting.  Persevere.  Those who left us too soon are proud of you. Even though they may not have had the chance to say it."

Forgive me, as I don't recall where I once heard/saw that and could not tell you who may have said it.  But some version of those words has stuck with me for a long time as I have dealt with loss in my own life.

Investigator James Diehl:

Tom was a man who never grew up. This is the best way I can describe Tom Sanfratello. 

He loved collecting Hot Wheels cars and Legos. He got giddy like a kid on Christmas when new ones were going to be released or he found a rare Hot Wheels car.  He had knowledge about the different types of cars, which ones were special, what codes meant what, and what cars he had that were overly impressive. Tom kept a bucket of Hot Wheels cars in a drawer in his office and would always tell people to take some for their kids or to hand out. 

I’ll remember the fantasy football leagues that he organized and the drafts he would have at his house.  

My kids and I will always remember the Easter Egg hunts that “Mr. Tom” put on at his house. Tom and I would discuss him prepping for the event, filling 1,000 eggs weeks before the event with candy, Lego figurines, and hot wheel cars, all the things he loved. When I arrived on the day of the event to help put eggs out, it would be three hours before, and he came out of the house with box after box after box of plastic eggs totaling somewhere in the 4 to 5 thousands.

At the same event, he would hide golden eggs with money or a ticket for a large Oliver’s candy chocolate Easter bunny. Tom did all this without asking for a dime. 

In recent years, many of us who attended had to tell him to accept money towards it, but he would still rarely look for help. During the event, he would walk around with his daughter Lexi, watching her and all the other kids run and gather so many eggs they wouldn’t be able to carry the bag they brought with them, and he would smile and take it all in, seeing what kids got the cherished golden eggs. He would ask if the kids got enough, knowing full well that parents were carrying bags bigger than the kids. 

Tom got the same smile on his face during Shop with a Cop. He would help organize the event and liked to float through the store watching kids shop and maybe looking for a stray rare Hot Wheels car at the same time. But I feel like seeing the kids smile and the happiness that was brought towards the kids and families on that day, the good interactions deputies had with people, and the light conversations that developed is what he liked most. 

He brought this same love to talk to people, to joke, sarcastic banter, and kid-like fun to work as well. His office is a perfect display of his personality as it holds toys in every direction. There are multiple-sized Lego cars, Hot Wheels cars in display cases, and a wall of signed photos of Tom meeting actors, including Erik Estrada (Officer Frank Poncherello) and Larry Wilcox (Officer Jon Baker) from the TV Show CHIPS, Catherine Bach (Daisy Duke), WWE celebrities Brie and Nikki Bella, John Cena and Bryan Danielson, Candy Clark (Debby) from American Graffiti, Jim Kelly, and Brad Paisley along with so many others. Until recently, a Halloween skeleton dressed as a deputy would sit across from Tom in his office and scare half the people who walked into it.  Closest to his chair, along his desk, were photos of his kids, Ian, Kyla, and “Lexi.” 

As our many conversations would lead us to different topics, he talked about these kids often. He was proud of all of them, especially recently when Ian graduated from the Correctional Academy and was working at the Genesee County Jail. As conversations about kids usually go through the ups and downs of life and the “he/she should do this or that” moments, I remember Tom saying that, most importantly, he wanted them to “do what makes them happy.” I’ll miss our daily conversations, our banters, him telling me like a dad that I’m wrong and being unreasonable. We had many discussions, conversations, and arguments, and Tom could always understand where you were coming from, even if he didn’t agree. 

Retired Investigator Pete Welker:

Tommy and I went through the police academy together back in 1996. We were young and excited to become Sheriff’s deputies. Going through the academy and then field training (FTO) can be very stressful for recruits.  We helped each other along the way and ultimately made it through training.  We then served in different capacities alongside each other for 30 years at the Sheriff’s Office, as well as serving on the union board together for probably 20 of those years.  

Tommy was a very productive deputy (sergeant). Even in his latter years, Tommy would not only take a good amount of overtime, but he would be sure to get things done while working it.  If he took DWI overtime, he would often times make an arrest during that shift.  Tommy was a fixture at the Darien Lake concerts during the summer, supervised those details for years, and could somehow make chaos seem manageable.  He was in charge of the Civil Office, in charge of warrants, and tasked with final approval and merging of all reports.  

Tommy could be stern at times and was a stickler for making sure paperwork was complete, accurate, and on time. That said, however, as union president and even as a union rep before that, Tommy was the first one to stand up for the guys when labor-management issues arose.   

Tommy was very proud of all of his children and spoke of them often.  He and I would usually chat in his office a couple of times a week.  You don’t realize how much you talk to someone until they are no longer there to talk to.  In today’s society, the term “cop” has grown to mean so much more than just someone who makes arrests.  It takes a wide array of skills to maneuver your way through serving communities in today’s world.  Tommy had those skills and was a wealth of knowledge.  Tommy loved being a cop and truly wanted to help people in any way that he could.  We are all saddened by the loss of our friend and co-worker, Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello and it gives me some peace knowing that Tommy took his last breath on this earth doing what he loved and was sworn to do: protect and serve.   

Those that were effected and those that knew him professionally will miss Sergeant Sanfratello, the Deputy. We will miss the playful sarcasm, the laughter, his caring nature, our conversations, experienced wisdom, youthful spirit, partner, father, and friend. We will miss the man who never really grew up. 

Sergeant Tom Sanfratello was often the liaison between the Sheriff’s Office and many other agencies. I believe he loved the interactions, the communication, and, at times, even the chaos that went with the job as well. He loved to work at the Sheriff’s Office and especially at Darien Lake Concert events. It would be rare to work there without him, and he will be missed this year. He would take on so many additional duties and always answer when you needed advice or had questions. He always was there for anyone who needed him. 

Those who were affected and those who knew him professionally will miss Sgt. Sanfratello, the deputy. We will miss his playful sarcasm, laughter, caring nature, our conversations, experienced wisdom, youthful spirit, partner, father, and friend. We will miss the man who never really grew up. 

Retired Dispatcher Gary Diegelman:

I first met Tom when he came into communications in February 1992. He was always willing to learn and fast to learn. Tom always had a great attitude.  I remember him always smiling and laughing. He was very excited to have been hired as a deputy sheriff. He excelled as a road deputy, and after being promoted to sergeant, Tom never forgot where he started in communications.  Every day, he would stop in to say hi. If he needed help, he knew dispatchers were a good place to start.  This will leave a huge hole in the Sheriff's Office. It such a tragic end to a well-loved professional, coworker and  friend.

Retired Deputy Brian Thompson:

Tommy rose through the ranks with hard work and determination. As a patrol officer we got along well and worked on cases together. As a sergeant, he did an excellent job streamlining report-taking and was always available to help with a question or glitch in the systems incorporated over the years. I always appreciated his patience with me or assistance in getting reports done, in the database and recovered for court cases. Enjoyed a lot of laughs and tears with Tom over the years. Our prayers and deepest condolences are with family and friends.
 
Retired Deputy Chris Erion:

Two things stand out when I think of Tom.  He was a supervisor, and where he really excelled was his decisiveness.  He didn’t just sit on the sideline giving directives, keeping his uniform clean.  He followed through with his own directives and was willing to walk shoulder to shoulder with other members of law enforcement into any kind of hornet’s nest we may have encountered. I saw him do this on many occasions when it was called for.  When I learned about his final call at the Downs, it sounded just like Tom to make a decision, and go straight towards the problem to restore order.

The other thing that really pops out when I think of Tom is how he loved his children. This was so obvious.  If he were having a bad day or upset about some circumstance, that would all go away when he started to talk about some event, activity, or success of one of his children.  He was very proud of them!

Lest we forget his Hot Wheels collection – if you didn’t know the difference between a Matchbox and a Hot Wheels, Tom would quickly, thoroughly, and with great passion explain the difference.

Dispatcher Nate Fix:

Tom will be sorely missed. He was not only a born leader in this organization but someone I looked up to; I've been with Tommy since the late 90s at Darien Lake, now Six Flags, as the concert lieutenant. Personally, for the last 15 years, I've worked extremely closely with him. There are endless stories of the nights with Tommy and his leadership at Darien Lake and and how well he did. Tom will mostly be missed by me bedcaue of our 20-year relationship at Darien Lake concerts.

He was a very giving person, particularly started four years ago with his daughter's Easter egg hunt -- 4,000 Easter eggs, doing it all with his own money. He would put all the Easter eggs together with his daughter Alexei. 

Those are just small things that Tommy did. In the end, you look back, and you realize how generous he was. 

Not only will I miss him as a comrade here at the facility, but the town board in Alexander will also miss him. He worked great with the Alexander Fire Department.

It was a year this month that we also lost (Dispatcher) Andy Merkle. So that's also been playing on our minds a year later, we're kind of going through something similar with someone we work with and it's unexpected. 

Tom was a pillar of this organization. There are things that he did behind the scenes of this organization that we're going to have to figure out. I just wish he had the time and took the time to retire and enjoy his retirement and see it. But his long hard work doesn't go unnoticed in his years of service.

And I can't forget our daily talks as union presidents. He was DSA and I was GCSEA.

I hope the Sanfratello family finds comfort in knowing how many people truly love their brother, their uncle, and their father. 

GS-9 will never be forgotten.

Until we meet again, we'll always think of you. 

Sheriff's Office sergeant dies in the line of duty while trying to make arrest at Batavia Downs

By Howard B. Owens
sgt. sanfratello
Social media photo of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello

During an altercation with a criminal suspect at Batavia Downs shortly before 1 a.m. on Sunday, a Sheriff's Office sergeant became unresponsive and, despite life-saving attempts by Batavia Downs security staff, was later pronounced dead by the Genesee County Coroner. 

Thomas A. Sanfratello, 54, was a 32-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office.  He was working a special assignment detail at the Batavia Downs while on duty. 

The investigation has been transferred to the Batavia Police Department, which issued a statement about the case Sunday afternoon.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family members of Sergeant Sanfratello and all the members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office at this extremely difficult time,” said Batavia Police Department Chief Shawn Heubusch. 

The Sheriff's Office also released a statement expressing its deep regret and sorrow at Sanfratello's passing.

michael j. elmore
Michael J. Elmore
2013 File Photo/Booking Photo

The statement also stated, "Sergeant Sanfratello’s family would like to extend their sincere appreciation for all the overwhelming support they have received from friends and fellow first responders."

According to Heubusch, Sheriff's Sergeant Sanfratello and casino security were notified about an altercation inside the facility.

Heubusch said that Sanfratello and security were notified about 12:45 a.m. of a possible fight inside the casino. After an initial verbal confrontation inside Rush 34, Sanfratello and security staff began escorting two patrons from the facility.

The patrons are identified as Michael J. Elmore, 33, and Lyndsey Jean Wilcox, 39.

As they were escorted, Wilcox is accused of becoming physically combative with Sanfratello.  With the assistance of security officers, Wilcox was restrained and placed under arrest.  

At that point, Elmore allegedly interfered with her arrest and attacked Sanfratello. 

Security officers and civilians attempted to assist Sanfratello. A fight ensued. Sanfratello attempted to use his taser to subdue Elmore but Elmore reportedly kept fighting.

During the fight, Sanfratello became unresponsive. People on scene began CPR. 

The life-saving attempts were unsuccessful.

Heubusch said no further details are being released at this time.

Charges are expected against Elmore, according to Heuubusch.  He did not elaborate.

Sanfratello began his law enforcement career as a dispatcher on Feb. 29, 1992. He was appointed deputy in 1996 and promoted to sergeant in 2007.  

Gilmart Funeral Home and Cremation Company in Batavia is handling funeral arrangements. More information about funeral plans will be released later.

Elmore has a lengthy arrest recording. In 2009, he was accused of shooting a teen with a BB gun at the former skate park in Batavia. In 2012, he was charged with disorderly conduct following a fight on State Street. He was charged with a burglary at Sherwin-Williams in 2013. In 2015, he was accused of sending threatening texts to another person. He also has a prior history of tangling with law enforcement. He was charged with obstructing governmental administration during an incident in 2022 at the former Days Inn. In 2022, he was also accused of slashing tires on vehicles.

He served two years in state prison on the attempted burglary charge. His parole ended in 2021.

UPDATE: Henry Wojtaszek, CEO of Western Regional OTB, released the following statement:

The Batavia Downs Family is extremely saddened by the loss of Sergeant Sanfratello and we send our very deepest condolences to his family.   We rarely have incidents at our facility in large part due to the incredible efforts of people like Sergeant SanFratello.  

While words cannot express our sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with the SanFratello family and his extended first responder family.

The safety of our guests and our dedicated staff is our highest priority, and we will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement throughout their investigation.

We are committed to assisting the SanFratello family and the entire community through this difficult time.

In an interview with The Batavian, Wojtaszek said that Batavia Downs began contracting with the Sheriff's Office four or five months ago to provide a security detail to the casino on Friday and Saturday nights.  He said the arrangement is similar to what Batavia Downs does with Batavia PD and the Sheriff's Office during the summer concert series and that the agencies are compensated for the officers' time.  He reiterated during the interview, "We are committed to the safety and security of our patrons." 

UPDATE 6:05 p.m.: Heubusch said Elmore is in custody pending charges.

According to Heubusch, this is an ongoing investigation. Witnesses and people with video of the incident are asked to come forward. The Detective Bureau can be reached at 585-345-6311 or submit a tip at www.bataviapolice.org.

Joseph Graff seeking GOP nomination for Sheriff's election

By Howard B. Owens
joseph graff
Chief Deputy Joseph Graff, Genesee County Sheriff's Office, during the 2023 Stuff the Cruiser event in Batavia Towne Center.
File photo by Howard Owens.

Press release:

Chief Deputy – Criminal Investigation Division Joseph M. Graff will seek the Republican Party endorsement for the 2024 election for Genesee County Sheriff. 

Chief Deputy Graff, 50, has nearly 25 years of experience in local law enforcement in Genesee County.  He began his law enforcement career in March 1999 as a Probation Officer with the Genesee County Probation Department, and in February 2004, was appointed Deputy Sheriff with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.  In 2015, he was promoted to the position of Investigator, and in 2017, he was promoted to the position of Chief Deputy – Road Patrol.  Chief Deputy Graff then accepted the position of Chief Deputy – Criminal Investigation Division in 2019, a position he currently holds.  The two Chief Deputy Positions he has held are the highest-ranking administrative positions within the Sheriff’s Office Police Bureau, directly under the Sheriff and Undersheriff.   

Chief Deputy Graff is a graduate of the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy, where he attended the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services - Basic Course for Police, receiving his certification as a police officer.  He received the Academic Achievement Award and was also honored with the Joseph E. Steblein Award, which is given to the top overall graduate in the academy class.  Over the course of his career, Chief Deputy Graff has attended trainings that include Interviewing and Interrogation, Criminal Investigations, Use of Force, New York Law Enforcement and the Law - Updates Practices and Procedures, Patrol Interdiction, Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement, Child Forensic Interviewing, Advanced Homicide – Violent Crime, National Incident Management, and Police Supervision.

Chief Deputy Graff holds credentials as a New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services Instructor and has served the Sheriff’s Office as an instructor of Aerosol Subject Restraint, ASP/Baton, General Topics, Electronic Control Devices, and Firearms.  He is a member of the Genesee County Threat Assessment Committee and has been a Field Training Officer as well as a former member of the Emergency Response Team. 

Over his career, Chief Deputy Graff has received departmental recognition awards including Officer of the Year in 2007, two Commendations, two Meritorious Service awards, and has also been the recipient of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia Criminal Justice Award.  He is experienced in overseeing the Road Patrol Bureau, as well as criminal investigation operations of the Sheriff’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office budget, equipment purchasing, administration of grants, coordinating departmental training, internal investigations, and selection of new hire personnel. 

Chief Deputy Graff is a lifelong resident of Genesee County.  He graduated from Notre Dame High School and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from St. John Fisher University.  He and his wife, Erin, are proud parents to three daughters, Gabrielle, Gianna and Lila. 

“If endorsed and elected Sheriff, I will continue my commitment to provide a safe, stable, and secure community for the residents of Genesee County.  I look to advance the Sheriff’s Office in step with the future of public safety and maintain the tradition of service from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office,” Joseph Graff, Chief Deputy.

Deputy Chad Cummings named Officer of the Year in annual awards ceremony at Sheriff's Office

By Howard B. Owens
sheriff's office awards 2024
Sheriff William Sheron reads the citation to go along with the Officer of the Year Award for Deputy Chad Cummings, who stands with his children during the awards ceremony on Tuesday at the Sheriff's Office in Batavia. 
Photo by Howard Owens.

A deputy who has distinguished himself through hard work, dedication, and a positive, professional attitude was named Tuesday Officer of the Year for the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

Chad P. Cummings joined the force nine years ago and has consistently demonstrated a willingness to take on additional duties as he's moved through various positions in the department, said Sheriff William Sheron. 

Jason R. Queal, a corrections officer for 11 years, received the Distinguished Service Award for his work and dedication. 

Other notable awards were given to three deputies who assisted a mother in dire circumstances and six corrections officers who helped save an inmate from an attempted suicide. 

Cummings, Sgt. Jason E. Saile and Deputy Jenna M. Ferrando commendationsfor assisting a destitute mother who was the subject of a trespass complaint at a local hotel because she was unable to pay her bill on Oct. 2. After the deputies were unable to secure assistance for her with any area agency, the officers pooled their own personal funds and rented her a room at another hotel, provided the family food, and made six trips to move the family and their belongings to their new room.

Also receiving commendations were Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart and Correction Officers Dennis J. Bartholomew, Laurie J. Schwab, Tyler M. Tambe, Chester L. Sherman, & Katherine M. Stearns.

The corrections officers worked together on Dec. 20 to reinstate an inmate who had attempted to hang himself and obtained emergency medical treatment for the inmate, saving his life.

sheriff's office awards 2024
Jason R. Queal, Distinguished Service Award winner with is family and command staff.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Deputy Jenna M. Ferrando.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Sgt. Jason Saile.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart and Correction Officers Dennis J. Bartholomew, Laurie J. Schwab, Tyler M. Tambe, Chester L. Sherman, & Katherine M. Stearns with jail command staff, Jail Superintendent Bill Zipfel and Deputy Superintendent Jeff Searls
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Deputy Jeremiah W. Gechell receiving a commendation award.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Investigator Erik B. Andre receiving a commendation award.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Investigator Ryan M. DeLong receiving a commendation. Command staff, from left, Jail Superintendent Bill Zipfel, Frank Riccobono, director of emergency communications, Chief Deputy Brian Frieday, Sheriff William Sheron, Undersheriff Brad Mazur, Chief Deputy Joseph Graff.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Press release:

Officer of the Year Award
Deputy Sheriff Chad Cummings has distinguished himself in the performance of service to the citizens of Genesee County during 2023. 

Deputy Sheriff Chad P. Cummings is a nine-year member of the Sheriff’s Office, with the last three of those years assigned to the Civil Office.  Deputy Cummings consistently displays a professional, positive attitude and unwavering work ethic.  Deputy Cummings has been a leader in civil enforcement (one of the most dangerous duties a Deputy performs).  He always accepts special assignments and has taken on additional duties, such as completing the Seal Orders in the Records Division, assisting Road Patrol with inmate transports, and handling multiple traffic complaints. 

Deputy Sheriff Chad P. Cummings has reflected great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and most deserve to be named Officer of the Year.

Distinguished Service Award – 
Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal has distinguished himself as a Genesee County Sheriff’s Office member for 11 years. 

Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal began his career on January 19, 2013.  During his career, he was the recipient of a Meritorious Service award for his consistent dedication in the performance of his duties.  Senior C.O. Queal is the Grievance Coordinator; he thoroughly investigates and resolves each inmate’s complaint effectively and professionally. Additionally, he is the liaison with the Commission of Corrections, assisting with the jail’s cycle reviews, and he is a firearms and defensive tactics instructor.  Senior C.O. Queal frequently assists administration with tasks that go well beyond his listed duties to ensure smooth operations and is always willing to take on additional responsibilities without hesitation.

Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal has reflected great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

LONGEVITY AWARDS:

  • Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal, 10 years
  • Sergeant Andrew B. Hale, 10 years
  • Case Manager Nicole M. Easton, 10 years
  • Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Michael T. Sheflin, 15 years
  • Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Jason W. Holman, 15 years
  • Sergeant James M. Diehl, 15 years
  • Deputy Sheriff Kevin R. McCarthy, 15 years
  • Principal Financial Clerk Deborah A. Shea, 15 years
  • Director of Emergency Communications Francis A. Riccobono, 15 years
  • Jail Cook William S. Cultrara, 15 years
  • Correction Officer Daniel J. Renz, 20 years
  • Senior Correction Officer Caleb C. Chaya, 20 years
  • Correction Officer Brian M. Manley, 25 years
  • Senior Correction Officer Peter M. Hoy, 25 years

MERITORIOUS AWARDS: 

Correction Officer Jason Buck
Correction Officer Jason M. Buck has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Correction Officer Buck has been instrumental in utilizing his communication skills to de-escalate multiple situations with hostile inmates to resolve incidents calmly and without force.  He voluntarily accepts additional responsibilities such as assisting the grievance coordinator, training new officers, and accepting overtime shifts when needed.  Correction Officer Jason M. Buck is a true asset to the department; his professionalism, dedication, and work ethic are an example for others.

Correction Officer Jason M. Buck has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

COMMENDATIONS:

Sergeant Jason E. Saile, Deputy Jenna M. Ferrando, & Deputy Chad P. Cummings
These officers are being recognized for their actions while on duty on October 2, 2023.  A call was received for a trespass complaint at a local hotel.   It was determined that a guest had no way to pay for her room and was asked to leave.  The guest was with two children and stated they would be homeless if they left the hotel.  Attempts to secure assistance were unsuccessful because there was none available.  These officers paid out of their own pockets for a room for the night at a nearby hotel and for food to feed the family.  Additionally, they made six trips to move the family’s belongings from one hotel to the other.  These officers are to be commended for their actions which have brought great credit upon themselves and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Jeremiah W. Gechell
Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah W. Gechell is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while off duty August 10, 2023.   Deputy Gechell came upon a two-car motor vehicle accident that had just occurred on Main Road in the Town of Pembroke.  Without hesitation, Deputy Gechell stopped to assist at the scene and immediately contacted the Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center with important information that a typical citizen may not know to relay.  Deputy Gechell was able to apply his own tourniquet to one of the patients who had suffered a severe leg injury and was bleeding profusely.  Applying the tourniquet stopped major blood loss until additional assistance arrived and, undoubtedly, contributed to saving the patient’s life.   Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah W. Gechell is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Sergeant Mathew J. Clor
Sergeant Mathew J. Clor is being recognized with a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty.

December 27, 2023.  A 9-1-1 EMS call was received for a resident with an arm laceration.  Sergeant Clor was nearby and responded to the call.  Upon arrival, Sergeant Clor found a male bleeding heavily from his arm as a result of an accident with a storm door.  Without hesitation, Sergeant Clor applied his own tourniquet to the patient and in doing so was able to stop the excessive bleeding until medical assistance arrived.  Sergeant Clor’s quick actions and instincts prevented more serious injury to the patient.   Sergeant Mathew J. Clor is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Deputy James D. Stack
Deputy Sheriff James D. Stack is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his instrumental coordination and implementation of the Sheriff’s Office handgun replacement project.  Deputy Stack proposed a transition and replacement of the Sheriff's Office duty handguns by supplying rationale citing the benefit and need for an updated firearm platform and estimated costs for the project.  Deputy Stack assisted with the logistics of acquiring the needed equipment and was integral in the planning for the implementation of a training program.  The effort put forth by Deputy Stack on this project resulted in a state-of-the-art, updated firearm platform for the Sheriff's Office duty handguns.  Deputy Sheriff James D. Stack is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigator Ryan M. DeLong
Investigator Ryan M. DeLong is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his instrumental

contribution in acquiring a Mobile Response Unit for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.  Investigator DeLong proposed that the Sheriff's Office had a need for a vehicle which could be primarily used as a mobile operations center.  In addition to his primary investigative responsibilities, Investigator DeLong researched solutions and was able to identify and acquire, with minimal expense, a vehicle which could suit the needs of the Office.  Investigator DeLong followed through with outfitting the vehicle with necessary equipment and has been instrumental in the Sheriff’s Office being able to put a Mobile Response Unit into service to better serve the community.  Further, Investigator DeLong continues to be proactive with combating organized retail crime efforts.  Investigator Ryan M. DeLong is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigator Erik B. Andre
Investigator Erik B. Andre is being recognized with a Commendation Award for his continuous work creating proactive investigations.   Throughout 2023, Investigator Andre has maintained a substantial caseload of active investigations as well as aggressively combatting retail theft crime.  Investigator Andre has worked to develop cases that may not have otherwise been pursued as they were not initially reported by the stores themselves.  By pursuing these cases, Investigator Andre not only holds the perpetrators accountable, but he has also developed information that has been valuable in other investigations.

Investigator Erik B. Andre is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart and Correction Officers Dennis J. Bartholomew, Laurie J. Schwab, Tyler M. Tambe, Chester L. Sherman, & Katherine M. Stearns
These officers are being recognized for their actions while on duty on December 20, 2023.  At approximately 5:29 pm, there was an incident of an inmate attempted suicide.  Officers remained calm, secured the scene, responded quickly, and worked together to resuscitate the inmate.  These officers are to be commended for their courage and quick actions, which have brought great credit upon themselves and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Lead Family Advocate Jacqueline M. O’Brien & Family Advocate Lydia J. Schauf
These advocates are being recognized for being instrumental in providing the Child Safety Matters child abuse prevention curriculum to over 3,000 children in the Batavia and Byron-Bergen school districts in grades kindergarten through eighth.  This prevention education curriculum has been shown to empower children with information to enhance their ability to reduce the risk of neglect, cyber crimes, bullying, physical abuse, and sexual abuse.  O’Brien went above and beyond her typical workload with many sessions provided when the CAC was short-staffed.  These advocates are to be commended for their actions which have brought great credit upon herself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION:

JFCAC Program Coordinator Theresa Roth for her eight years of service.  She has served the citizens of Genesee County with professionalism, dedication, and enthusiasm and has been a source of pride for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.   

Gary Patnode for his assistance in improving training space for department firearms.  When the training staff inquired about improving a room to clean and maintain department firearms, Gary used personal time and his own supplies to build countertops to enhance the room’s space and capability.  His efforts have resulted in an improved and dedicated space to maintain equipment to the necessary standards needed for everyday duty use for the Sheriff’s Office.

Alex Moskal. Loss Prevention Supervisor and Organized Retail Crime Captain for Kohl’s Department Store, for his assistance throughout 2023 fighting organized retail crime at the Towne Center shopping plaza.  Due to Alex’s vast knowledge, experience, and countless interactions in the field, he has been able to identify countless misdemeanor and felony crime suspects via surveillance video.  He has also assisted our Office in identifying suspects involved in other retail store thefts in Genesee County, including a high-dollar theft from a local beauty supply store.  Alex provides well-written depositions, supplies complete surveillance video footage and makes himself accessible to law enforcement during off hours.

Pavilion's new SRO up for approval, five other districts to renew contracts

By Joanne Beck

In preparation for another school year, Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron notified the Public Service Committee this week of renewals for five school resource officers totaling nearly $670,000 in contract costs while Pavilion Central School is preparing to bring its new SRO on board.

The terms for the other five districts range from 10 to 24 months for SROs Eric Meyer with Alexander, Josh Brabon with Byron-Bergen, Ryan Young with Elba, Jordan Alejandro with Oakfield-Alabama and Patrick Reeves with Pembroke school districts. Expenses are reimbursed by each district for the hourly rate, fringe benefits and insurance. 

And as for the pending open position at Pavilion Central School, the contract for a new SRO is on Monday’s school board agenda, Pavilion Superintendent Kate Hoffman said Friday. She will issue a statement after the board’s expected approval on Monday, she said.

The open SRO position at Pavilion Central School became vacant earlier this summer when Deputy Jeremy McClellan was asked to leave the role. He remains employed at the Sheriff’s Office. McClellan's departure was strongly contested by Pavilion families and community members.

The breakdown of each negotiated price for those SROs already in place, based on the type of medical or buy-back plan chosen, per district is as follows:

  • Alexander, at 12 months, is $98,838.04
  • Byron-Bergen at 12 months is $104,036.73
  • Elba for 24 months is $241,138.53
  • Oakfield-Alabama for 12 months is $119,980.39
  • Pembroke for 10 months is $104,433.78

The Genesee County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association 2020-23 Labor Agreement contract I is to expire on Dec. 31, and the hourly rate for 2024 and 2025 will not be known until it is ratified, according to the resolution; therefore, the rate listed include the current 2023 hourly rates. The yearly retirement and medical rates are also not available until late fall each year, and therefore the rate listed includes 2023 rates. 

Once all of the rates have been confirmed, they will be modified, and, if applicable, the difference will be billed under a separate invoice, or a credit will be applied.

The contracts will go to the county Legislature for final approval. 

What do these school resource officers do? During a presentation to the city school board earlier this year, Batavia’s SRO, Miah Stevens, said the answer is simple.

“We're just placed in the school. We do everything we would do on the road and more. We get to build relationships with students, we get to kind of act as counselors in certain situations,” she said during that June board meeting. “For our agreement with the schools, we go to the training from the state of New York Police Juvenile Officers Association. So we are members of this, and basically, they just help us stay up to date on laws that change or any other information that we should need to know.”

Batavia Downs donates unclaimed funds to K-9 units with Batavia PD, GCSO

By Press Release
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Deputy James Stack with K-9 Rayzor, Deputy Andrew Mullen with K-9 Frankie, and Officer Stephen Quider with K-9 Batu.
Photo by Howard Owens. 

Press release:

On Thursday, a ceremony was held in the lobby at Batavia Downs Gaming as Batavia Downs presented both local K-9 Units with a check from money that went unclaimed at Batavia Downs. 

When the money went unclaimed, Batavia Downs decided to sponsor the Department’s K-9 Unit as they have done in the past.  Both the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department and the Batavia Police Department’s K-9 Units received $2,000 each.

“We’re happy to once again support the local K-9 Units,” said Henry Wojtaszek, President and CEO of Batavia Downs.  “Now more than ever, it’s important for our local law enforcement to have the resources they need to keep local residents safe.  These officers do so much for the community, and we’re glad to do our part to help.”

“We appreciate the support from local businesses like Batavia Downs, “said Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron, Jr.  “These funds will help cover the K-9 unit’s expenses like food, training and equipment.”

“Public support and donations play an integral role in supporting our K-9 program,“ said Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch.  “These funds will be used to offset the cost of food, veterinary services, training, equipment and other K-9-related expenses.”

Batavia downs K-9 donation
Henry Wojtaszek, CEO of Batavia Downs.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Batavia downs K-9 donation
K-9 Batu
Photo by Howard Owens.
Batavia downs K-9 donation
K-9 Rayzor
Photo by Howard Owens.
Batavia downs K-9 donation
K-9 Frankie
Photo by Howard Owens.
Batavia downs K-9 donation
Photo by Howard Owens.

GC Sheriff's Office Jail graduates four from basic corrections academy

By Press Release
GCSO graduate
From left to right:  Correction Officers Zachary J. Tacy, Wyatt J. Sando, Christopher A. Bauer-Smith, Katherine M. Stearns and Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel

Press Release:

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. announces the graduation of Correction Officers Zachary J. Tacy, Wyatt J. Sando, Christopher A. Bauer-Smith, and Katherine M. Stearns. At the top of the class were C.O. Tacy for academics and C.O. Sando for Top Gun. 

These Correction Officers recently graduated on April 27, 2023, from the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Officer/Peace Officer Academy. The 247-hour course included training in effective communications, essential services, use of force, NYS Penal Law, Criminal Procedure Law, Inmate Transportation, Firearms, Pepper Spray, Taser and Defensive Tactics, and other topics pertaining to corrections. 

“Congratulations to Correction Officers Tacy, Sando, Bauer-Smith and Stearns. We look forward to your future in Corrections at the Genesee County Jail,” stated Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr.

Submitted photo.

Mary Hecht retires from Genesee County Sheriff's office after 23 years of service

By Press Release

Press Release:

Financial Management Assistant Mary Hecht is retiring after 23 years of service with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. She worked her last shift on April 28.

Mary began her career on January 10, 2000, at the Genesee County Jail as a part-time Account Clerk-Typist. During her tenure, she held several titles that included Financial Clerk-Typist, Senior Financial Clerk-Typist, Principal Financial Clerk and in 2015, was appointed to her current Financial Management Assistant position. Mary received a Distinguished Service Award, a Commendation, and a Meritorious Service for continuous excellence.

“Everyone here at the Sheriff’s Office wishes Mary the very best in her future,” stated Sheriff Sheron.

Sheriff's K-9s visit Elba Fire and provide Chicken BBQ attendees and volunteers a demo

By Howard B. Owens

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Deputies Andrew Mullen, with partner K-9 Frankie, and Deputy James Stack, with partner K-9 Rayzor, visited the Elba Volunteer Fire Department Chicken BBQ on Sunday to provide a demonstration of how K-9s work with officers.

The Elba Boy Scouts were also on hand to help with the BBQ at the Elba Fire Rec Hall on Route 98.

The fundraiser was sold out.

Submitted photos and information.

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9-1-1 Center implements program to improve response times to automated alarms

By Press Release

Press release:

Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. announced that the Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center (GCESDC) has implemented a new program called ASAP to PSAP.  ASAP stands for Automated Secure Alarm Protocol, and PSAP is Public Safety Answering Point, aka: the Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center. 

Alarm monitoring companies can now send notifications electronically to the GCESDC, and that data will automatically be populated into the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) software.  This will eliminate the need for dispatchers to manually enter the information into CAD, which will expedite first responder response times by increasing data accuracy and eliminating miscommunications and the need for unnecessary phone calls between alarm companies and dispatchers.

Traditionally, alarm companies have had to contact the GCESDC by calling the non-emergency phone line to report a burglary, robbery, fire or medical alarm and dispatchers would then have to manually enter the information into the CAD software, which would routinely take 90 - 120 seconds to process.  Now, with ASAP to PSAP, that time will be reduced to approximately 5 seconds. 

The GCESDC is the 6th PSAP in the State of New York and the 123rd PSAP in the United States to implement ASAP.  The GCESDC went live on Monday, March 6, 2023, with several alarm companies, including Vector Security, Rapid Response Monitoring, Johnson Controls (Tyco), Stanley Security, Securitas, Protection One, Security Central, Affiliated Monitoring, Doyle, Guardian Protection, Brinks, Amherst Alarm, United Central Control, Vivint and ADT. 

The Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP) was launched in 2011 as a public-private partnership including the following agencies:

  • Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO)
  • The Monitoring Association (TMA)
  • American National Standards Institute (ANSI) - cooperatively developed protocols used for ASAP.
  • International Justice and Public Safety Network (NLETS) – critical life safety signals network.

Corrections Officer Ridder retires after 22 years of service

By Press Release

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Press release:

Correction Officer Anthony J. Ridder retired after 22 years of service to the Genesee County Sheriff's Office effective March 5. 

He worked his last shift, A-line, on Sunday, Feb.y 26.

A veteran of the United States Army, C.O. Ridder started his career on March 3, 2001, at the Genesee County Jail.  During his tenure, he earned a Meritorious Award and was known for his dedication, loyalty and professionalism.   

“Everyone here at the Sheriff’s Office wishes Tony the very best in his future,” stated Sheriff Sheron.

Submitted photos.

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Deputy Cory Mower retires after 26 years of service to the community

By Press Release

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Press release:

Effective January 27, 2023, Deputy Sheriff Cory W. Mower retired after 26 years of service with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Deputy Mower started his career on December 28, 1996, as a Correction Officer at the Genesee County Jail.  On January 25, 2003, he was appointed a Deputy Sheriff on Road Patrol.  During his tenure, he earned two Commendations.   

“Everyone here at the Sheriff’s Office wishes Cory the very best in his future,” stated Sheriff Sheron.

Sheriff's Office warns motorists about impermissible vehicle lights

By Press Release

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Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone of what lighting is permitted on a passenger vehicle in New York State.  Many lighting products being sold now do not comply with the Vehicle and Traffic Law.  In general, the following lighting is required and authorized:

  • Headlamps – Two of equal power and white in color (one lamp for a motorcycle); Other overhead light bars are not permitted while operating on a public highway
  • Tail lamps – Two of equal power and red to amber in color (one lamp for a motorcycle)
  • Turn signals, front – Amber
  • Turn signals, rear – Red or amber
  • Hazard lights (4 way flashers) – Amber in front, red or amber in rear
  • License plate lamp – White
  • Back up lamp – White

Any other color lighting is prohibited while operating on a public highway, except the following:

  • Amber – For hazard vehicles only (i.e. Plow trucks, tow vehicles) when actually a hazard.  Any other amber lighting, such as fog lamps or overhead light bars, is not permitted
  • Blue – For authorized volunteer fire personnel only when responding to an emergency
  • Green – For authorized volunteer ambulance personnel only when responding to an emergency

Any violations are infractions of the Vehicle and Traffic Law and are subject to appropriate fines in a local justice court. 

Photo illustrations courtesy of the Sheriff's Office. They are not local examples.  Chief Deputy Brian Frieday says of the photos: The light bar would be an example of something permissible for a hazard vehicle when actually engaged in hazardous operation, such as a private plowing vehicle when actually plowing.  However, operating on a public highway, whether the lights are steady or flashing, is not permissible. The under-glow lighting comes in multiple colors and is not permitted while operating on a public highway. The two pictures of the cars with the LED strips, grill lights and rim lights, again, are all not permitted while operating on a public highway.

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Sheriff reminds residents to be alert for scammers, not to fall prey to con artists

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to remain vigilant so as not to fall victim to many prevalent scams.  As a general rule, it is a best practice to never provide personal or financial information to anyone who calls you over the phone or contacts you via e-mail or text message.  Scammers may purport themselves to be a relative, representative from Law Enforcement, the Federal Government, a Bank/Financial Institution, a utility company, or other consumer business. 

  • Scammers will often contact you pretending to be from a known organization such as the Sheriff’s Office, IRS, FBI, Microsoft, Pay Pal, Amazon, or countless other businesses/government entities.  The scammer may indicate that you have a problem with your account or there is a virus on your computer, and they need to assist you in rectifying the issue. 

Scammers may ask:

  • You to click on a provided link
  • For personal and banking information
  • For remote access to your computer to assist in correcting the fictitious problem 

Also:

  • Scammers may tell you that your daughter, son, husband, wife, grandchild, a close friend or someone you know is in trouble with law enforcement and needs money for bail.
  • Scammers may say that they are a lawyer and that there has been a terrible accident involving your relative, and they need money for legal fees or medical expenses     
  • Scammers may indicate that you have won a sweepstakes and that they will be sending you a check to cash and then ask that a portion of the proceeds are sent back to them. 
  • Scammers may ask for payment in the form of gift cards, or electronic payments or ask that you send cash in the mail to a specified address.  Scammers may also indicate that they will send a courier to your residence to retrieve your payment. 

These perpetrators of scams will attempt to pressure you to act quickly by threatening that the problem will only get worse if you don’t act now or that you will be arrested if the issue is not immediately addressed.  Scammers will mask their actual identity, often using surreptitious phone numbers, which may appear to be from a local area code or use an e-mail address that is very similar to someone’s that you may know.  Always pay close attention to details as it may save you from falling victim.      

Please be suspicious concerning anyone asking for personal or financial information.  If you suspect something may not be legitimate, tell someone you trust what the situation is before you act and potentially suffer a financial loss that may not be recoverable or disclose personally identifying information. 

If you fall victim to a scam, please report it to your local law enforcement agency.

Sheriff's Office awards recognize life-saving efforts during Winter Storm Elliott

By Howard B. Owens

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Today's annual awards at the Sheriff's Office recognized a wide range of contributions and good police work throughout the department, but the vast majority of awards were generated by one event: Winter Storm Elliott.

The extra effort to save lives went well beyond just a few individuals.

Photos by Howard Owens.  Top photo: Nate Fix and Anthony Johnston of Genesee SnoPackers and Deputy Kevin McCarthy were recognized for their initiative to use the Snopackers' grooming machine and a snowmobile to make it possible for a convoy of rescuers to make it to stranded motorists, resulting in multiple lives saved. Some of those rescued clearly would have perished in the following 30 to 60 minutes if the team of rescuers hadn't reached them when they did, Sheriff Wiliam Sheron noted.

Press release:

2022 BLIZZARD ELLIOTT AWARDS:
The following are being recognized for their heroic actions during historic Blizzard Elliott that occurred December 23 – December 25, 2022.  Blizzard Elliott inflicted sub-zero wind chill temperatures and blinding lake-effect snow that left numerous highways and roads impassable.  Multiple motorists were stranded in their vehicles for several hours and were not easily accessible by emergency first responders.  Without hesitation for their own safety, these employees worked considerable additional hours to rescue motorists.  Their brave actions that holiday weekend, undoubtedly, saved many lives. 

They are to be commended for their actions which have brought great credit upon themselves and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

COMMENDATIONS:

  • Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur
  • Deputy Sheriff Rachel M. Diehl
  • Deputy Sheriff Jonathan M. Dimmig
  • Chief Deputy-Criminal Investigations Joseph M. Graff
  • Deputy Sheriff Eric J. Meyer
  • Deputy Sheriff Kyle J. Tower
  • Chief Deputy-Road Patrol
  • Brian M. Frieday
  • Deputy Sheriff Ryan W. Young
  • Deputy Sheriff Zachary P. Hoy
  • Sergeant Jason E. Saile
  • Deputy Sheriff Robert C. Henning
  • Deputy Sheriff Morgan C. Ewert
  • Sergeant Andrew B. Hale
  • Deputy Sheriff Jeremy M. McClellan
  • Deputy Sheriff Ryan J. Mullen
  • Sergeant Michael J. Lute
  • Deputy Sheriff Travis M. DeMuth
  • Deputy Sheriff Alexander R. Hadsall
  • Sergeant Mathew J. Clor
  • Deputy Sheriff James D. Stack
  • Deputy Sheriff Carlos O. Ortiz Speed
  • Sergeant Kyle D. Krzemien
  • Deputy Sheriff Andrew Z. Mullen
  • Deputy Sheriff Ayrton J. Blankenberg
  • Investigator Erik B. Andre
  • Deputy Sheriff Joshua A. Brabon
  • Deputy Sheriff Jacob A. Kipler
  • Deputy Sheriff Patrick J. Reeves
  • Deputy Sheriff David D. Moore
  • Deputy Sheriff Mason S. Schultz
  • Deputy Sheriff Richard S. Schildwaster
  • Deputy Sheriff Jordan M. Alejandro

Deputy Sheriff Kevin R. McCarthy assisted rescue efforts by operating his personal snowmobile to reach stranded motorists in their vehicles.

Blizzard Elliott generated over 3,200 total phone calls and 953 distinct calls for service, resulting in the busiest day in the history of the Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center.  The following communications personnel played a vital role in addressing the tremendous demands placed upon the 9-1-1 Center during this extraordinary event and are to be commended for their actions which have brought great credit to themselves and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

COMMENDATIONS:

  • Director of Emergency Comm. Francis A. Riccobono
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Andrew K. Merkel
  • Public Safety Systems Manager Justin T. Allen
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Samantha L. Conibear
  • Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Emily K. Young
  • Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Jason W. Holman
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Shelby M. Turner
  • Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Michael T. Sheflin
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Matthew F. Grimes
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Stephen R. Smelski
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Shaylene S. Kilner
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Peggy D. Richardson
  • PT Emergency Services Dispatcher Cady E. Glor
  • Emergency Services Dispatcher Kelly E. Smith
  • PT Emergency Services Dispatcher Marie A. Vaughn

Emergency Services Dispatcher Nathan L. Fix, while off duty and in his capacity as Vice-President of Genesee Sno Packers, played a crucial role in securing the use of its Tucker snow grooming machine that led a convoy of first responders to reach stranded motorists who had been in their vehicles for multiple hours.

CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION:

  • Anita Cleveland for welcoming one of our deputies who was stranded on the road in front of her house,  along with two motorists that he previously rescued from their stranded vehicle, into her home where she provided comfort, food and shelter.
  • Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Jeffrey R. Bartz, his wife, Jami, and Grace Baptist Church.   Multiple motorists were stranded for several hours in their vehicles and once rescued were in need of a place to shelter until the blizzard passed and roads opened.  Chaplain Bartz, without hesitation, assisted with the opening of Grace Baptist Church as a warming shelter, and he and his wife spent the holiday weekend providing comfort, food, and shelter to strangers in need.       
  • Genesee Sno Packers provided its Tucker snow grooming machine to lead a convoy of first responders to reach multiple stranded motorists. 
  • Anthony Johnston is a member of the Genesee Sno Packers, and he volunteered his time to drive its Tucker snow grooming machine, jeopardizing his own safety to assist patrols.

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Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush named Officer of the Year

By Howard B. Owens

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In an awards ceremony Friday -- the first one at the Genesee County Sheriff's Office in a couple of years because of the pandemic -- Deputy Kenneth A. Quackenbush, III, was named Officer of the Year by Sheriff William Sheron.

The entire command staff provides advice and input in selecting each year's honorees, which also includes meritorious service and commendation awards. 

Quackenbush thanked his family and his co-workers for their support, and his mentor, a detective he didn't name, for pointing him in the right direction toward becoming a better police officer.

See alsoSheriff's Office awards recognize life-saving efforts during Winter Storm Elliott

Photos by Howard Owens

Press release:

Officer of the Year Award – Kenneth A. Quackenbush, III
Deputy Sheriff Kenneth A. Quackenbush, III has distinguished himself in the performance of service to the citizens of Genesee County during 2022. 

Deputy Quackenbush is a six-year member of the Sheriff’s Office, with almost four of those years on Road

Patrol.  Deputy Quackenbush consistently displays a professional, positive attitude and unwavering work ethic.  He is level-headed and has received accolades for his calm demeanor and de-escalation during tense situations.  Deputy Quackenbush has been a leader in traffic enforcement, which often leads to larger cases, including those for impaired driving.  He had several notable felony arrests in 2022, which included illegal weapon and drug possession cases.   Deputy Quackenbush has developed trust within the department as shown by him being a Field Training Officer, Drug Recognition Expert, a member of the Emergency Response Team and is looked upon for other special assignments. 

Deputy Sheriff Kenneth A. Quackenbush, III has reflected great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and most deserves to be named Officer of the Year. 

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Distinguished Service Award – Principal Financial Clerk Margaret A. Sheelar

Principal Financial Clerk Margaret A. Sheelar has distinguished herself as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office for over 20 years. 

Principal Financial Clerk Margaret A. Sheelar began her career on August 1, 2000.  During her career, she was the recipient of two Meritorious Service awards for her dedication in the performance of her duties. 

Margaret’s professionalism, coupled with her knowledge of Sheriff’s Office operations, has been a source of pride for this Agency.  This year, as in previous years, Margaret continues to pay diligent attention to the financial needs of the Sheriff’s Office.  She frequently assists the administration with tasks that go well beyond her listed duties to ensure smooth operations and is always willing to take on additional responsibilities without hesitation.

Principal Financial Clerk Margaret A. Sheelar reflects great credit upon himself and the Genesee County

LONGEVITY AWARDS:

Correction Officer Lewis A. Henning

10 years

Program Coordinator Tracy L. Ranney

10 years

Correction Officer Michael A. Cox

15 years

Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp

20 years

Emergency Services Dispatcher Beth A. Hynes

20 years

Correction Officer Michael F. Lindsley

20 years

Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello

30 years

Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel

40 years

Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr.

45 years

MERITORIOUS AWARDS:

Sr. Correction Officer James M. Smart
Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Senior Correction Officer Smart has been instrumental in maintaining the inmate telephone system and tablets.  He has worked diligently to reorganize the inmate files and the file room, which is no small task.  Senior Correction Officer Smart has voluntarily taken on these additional responsibilities while continuing to do a stellar job with his normal duties.

Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer, II
Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer, II has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Senior Dispatcher Spencer continues to demonstrate excellent leadership of his shift and provides guidance for dispatchers, especially newer dispatchers.  He performs additional duties, including schedule management, and emergency medical call reviews, and is a Certified Training Officer.  Additionally, Senior Dispatcher Spencer demonstrates his commitment to providing excellent service to the public and to first responders, along with a willingness to adapt to meet new challenges.

Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer, II has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Deputy Sheriff Nicholas R. Chamoun
Deputy Sheriff Nicholas R. Chamoun has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Deputy Chamoun’s outstanding dedication to law enforcement is apparent year after year.  He is a Drug Recognition Expert and a member of the Emergency Response Team.  Deputy Chamoun is always eager to learn by way of formal training, researching, and learning on his own.  He takes the knowledge he gains and shares it with other members in the department.  Deputy Chamoun is aggressive in his vehicle traffic enforcement and puts his knowledge to use on his patrol in order to look “beyond the ticket” to identify criminal activity.  His efforts have resulted in felony arrests for illegal drugs and weapons on a consistent basis, thus making our community much safer. 

Deputy Sheriff Nicholas R. Chamoun has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigator R. Pete Welker
Investigator R. Pete Welker has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member  of the

Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigator Welker began his career at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office in 1994, and has

dedicated 22 years to the Genesee County Drug Task Force.  Investigator Welker has consistently brought forward the highest-quality narcotics investigations leading to successful criminal prosecutions.  Investigator Welker’s efforts and dedication to narcotics enforcement have significantly reduced the potential of violent crime in Genesee County.   

Investigator R. Pete Welker has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Community / Victim Services Counselor Rosanne M. DeMare
Community / Victim Services Counselor Rosanne M. DeMare has distinguished herself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Rosanne continuously puts victim interests first and foremost and spends countless hours comforting victims in distress and providing them with the emotional support needed to work through the complex criminal justice process.  She is compassionate and knowledgeable and is determined to ensure that victim rights and needs are met with the utmost respect and dignity. 

Community / Victim Services Counselor Rosanne M. DeMare has brought great credit upon herself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

COMMENDATIONS:

Correction Officer Matthew M. Luce
Correction Officer Matthew M. Luce is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his added responsibility of maintaining the inmate property room. 

Unclaimed inmate property is documented and inventoried, and once sufficient time has passed, paperwork is initiated to destroy the abandoned property.  Correction Officer Luce’s diligence keeps the property room free of clutter and makes for a more orderly property storage area.  He has voluntarily taken on this additional responsibility while continuing to do an excellent job with his normal duties.   

Correction Officer Matthew M. Luce is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

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Emergency Services Dispatcher Shelby M. Turner
Emergency Services Dispatcher Shelby M. Turner is being recognized for a Commendation Award for her actions during historic Blizzard Elliott that occurred December 23 – December 25, 2022.

The blizzard inflicted sub-zero wind chill temperatures and blinding lake-effect snow that left numerous highways and roads impassable.  This event generated over 3,200 total phone calls and 953 distinct calls for service.  This was the busiest day in the history of the Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center.  Dispatcher Turner played a vital role in addressing the tremendous demands placed upon the 9-1-1 Center during this extraordinary event.     

Emergency Services Dispatcher Shelby M. Turner is to be commended for her actions which have

brought great credit upon herself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah W. Gechell
Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah W. Gechell is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty May 7, 2022.

At approximately 0300 hours, Deputy Gechell observed a vehicle driving in an erratic manner in the City of Batavia.  Deputy Gechell initiated a traffic stop and found the driver was acting in a suspicious manner and providing inconsistent information.  Deputy Gechell’s instincts prompted him to investigate further by individually interviewing all three occupants in the vehicle.  Deputy Gechell found there to be several discrepancies in each of their explanations which prompted him to call for assistance from the K-9 unit to search the vehicle.  A large quantity of narcotics was discovered, which included cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, resulting in felony arrests of the three occupants of the vehicle.  More importantly, high quantities of dangerous narcotics never made their way onto the streets.  Deputy Gechell’s instincts and investigation are to be credited and commended for this.

Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah W. Gechell is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

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Chief Deputy Joseph Graph participating in Friday's awards ceremony.

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Dispatcher Robert Tripp was congratulated by Sheriff William Sheron.

Dispatchers Wanted: seeking a few 'unsung heroes' for duty

By Joanne Beck

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When it comes to recalling scenarios of being a dispatcher, Frank Riccobono came up with one immediately: he was on the phone with the mom of a young girl whose heart had stopped.

He talked the distressed mother through a procedure of moving her daughter to the floor and performing heart compressions and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. It was a nerve-wracking few minutes before the mom cried out. Her daughter was revived.

“The mother was very thankful,” Riccobono said. “I can’t describe the feeling of having that happen, knowing I gave them that.”

While scenes like that are often depicted in TV shows, complete with melodramatic music in the background, they are part of the life of a dispatcher — something that Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron refers to as more than a job, but as a career. And a highly respected and under-credited one at that.

He and Riccobono, a former longtime dispatcher for the city of Batavia and Genesee County and current director of the county’s emergency communications, are hoping to pique the interest of candidates for three full-time dispatcher positions.

The pay has been increased ($22.55 to $28.81 per hour), two part-time positions were merged into a third full-time position to offer benefits and regular hours, the civil service exam fee has been waived, and the exam date has been extended to Jan. 25, all in an effort to get more people to apply.

So why aren’t they?
It’s a phenomenon that’s been occurring over the last couple of years, Sheron said. It’s not exactly novel, as many employers are bemoaning the same complaint as they continuously search for qualified candidates to fill a variety of jobs. And job duties for dispatchers include a certain level of stress, multi-tasking, knowledge, quick-thinking, and decision-making skills, he said. Plus, it’s emergency services, which signals a 24/7, 365 days a year operation of nights, weekends and holidays.

So why should they?

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Well, there’s the rush of adrenaline for being in the thick of the action, such as when Riccobono provided directions for CPR to that distraught mom or helping to direct emergency responders to those in need, such as during the recent winter blizzard.

There were hundreds of stranded motorists buried in snow, and dispatchers were their only course of survival, as a link to responders out on the roads searching for them.

“We were able to direct emergency responders to their location,” Riccobono said. “That’s the most rewarding, just knowing I gave them the best chance of survival.”

Not that dispatchers are always in crisis mode. They also get the more mundane calls, such as reports of a minor traffic accident or a missing dog. But with each call, there’s an opportunity to make a difference, Riccobono said. He remembered when he began with the Batavia Police Department.

“My first week, there was a bank robbery, a high-speed pursuit and a SIDS death,” he said. “And I thought, ‘what did I get myself into?’ I’ve had people die on the phone. The good days outweigh the bad days.”

They’re unsung heroes.

That’s how Sheron describes dispatchers, those employees working behind the scenes taking calls from individuals and connecting them to the various multitudes of emergency service providers throughout Genesee County to get them the help they need.

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“It’s a stressful job,” Sheron said Thursday. “Once you become acclimated with what’s out there, that stress is offset with a  sense of fulfillment. These are the people that get things moving, they are behind the scenes. There will be a lull, like a routine traffic stop, and in the drop of a dime, it can go from zero to 150, a barn fire or delivering a baby over the phone.”

He gives credit to all emergency service responders, for sure, with differences being those that are on scene and those behind the scenes. When asked who makes for a good dispatcher, Sheron was stymied by a foolproof description. There have been candidates that were perfect on paper, but then when put to the test, they didn’t follow through as their qualities promised. And then those that seemed to be too quiet and unassuming for the position nailed it, he said.

“Sometimes it takes a little longer, and you become comfortable after you’ve been through situations,” he said. “They orchestrate everything that goes on. It’s a very rewarding career, steady employment. They’re the unsung heroes.”

For more information about applying for a dispatcher position, see the related press release.

Top file photo of the Emergency Dispatch Center on Park Road in Batavia, by Howard Owens; and county photos of Frank Riccobono, and William Sheron, above.

Filing for emergency services dispatcher exam extended to Jan. 25

By Joanne Beck

The exam deadline has been extended to apply for one of the three open full-time emergency services dispatcher positions, Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron says. That date is now Jan. 25, and Sheron urges anyone with interest to apply for the Civil Service exam.

Hourly salary is from $22.55 to $28.81, and there will be a probationary period of eight to 52 weeks based on performance of duties. Candidates must be legal residents of Genesee, Erie, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Orleans or Wyoming County at the time of examination and for at least two months prior to the date of the examination, which is Feb. 25.

It takes about three months from the time of the test for the results to come in, and the top three scores are selected for hire and paid training of 16 weeks before beginning their duties independently on the dispatch floor at the Park Road facility in Batavia. 

Typical work activities include:

  • Maintaining a continuous log of all telephone and radio calls sent out or received;
  • Recording all fire and emergency equipment in the county, and logging equipment out of service;
  • Operating telephone communications equipment and input of data into computer-aided dispatch systems utilizing a typewriter-style computer terminal keyboard;
  • Utilizing computerized data-bases (including NYSPIN system) to access and record data and information;
  • Acting as a secondary radio dispatcher for other agencies;
  • Receiving and answering radio calls for various agencies and transferring calls to appropriate personnel;
  • Receiving and relaying intra-county mutual aid calls;
  • Receiving and recording in log, location of fire alarms and emergency calls;
  • Performing filing, typing, and other clerical duties as needed; and
  • Giving instructions to callers and providing emergency medical instruction to callers using standard accepted medical guidelines.

Press Release:

“The timing of this exam could not be better,” stated Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. “We have all heard about the heroic actions and importance of first responders during the historic Blizzard of 2022. The Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center handled 3,216 calls and 953 distinct calls for service over a two-day span! This was one of the busiest emergency events in the history of Genesee County. Our Emergency Services Dispatchers played a crucial role in meeting the tremendous demands presented throughout the blizzard that undoubtedly saved the lives of numerous individuals.”

Currently, there are three full-time Emergency Services Dispatcher vacancies that the department is looking to fill. In order to be considered for this position, applicants must take the civil service exam, which is only given approximately every two years.

"I highly encourage anyone that has an interest in being an E911 first responder to sign up to take the exam," Sheron said. "An Emergency Services Dispatcher is an extremely rewarding first responder career." 

To read related coverage, click on Seeking a few unsung heroes

If you have any questions about this position, please feel free to contact Frank Riccobono, Director of
Emergency Communications, at 585-345-3000, Ext. 3429. Please click on the recruitment video link
which will provide a glimpse into what this career involves. We look forward to welcoming you to our family.

The deadline to apply to take the open competitive Genesee County civil service exam is Jan. 25. To get an application, stop in or send a stamped, self-addressed  envelope to Genesee County Human Resources, County Building I, 15 Main St., Batavia, NY, 14020, call 344-2550, Ext. 2221 or go HERE

To watch a dispatcher in action, click this recruiting video.

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