law enforcement

Press Release:

Genesee County law enforcement agencies, including 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 statewide STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign will start Wednesday, July 3 continuing thru Sunday, July 7. The Fourth of July is a wonderful time to celebrate with family and friends but all too often festivities turn tragic. 

The fact is this iconic American holiday is also one of the deadliest holidays of the year due to impaired-driving crashes. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaigns aim to further reduce the incidence of impaired driving.

Impaired driving is completely preventable – all it takes is a little planning.

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted in favor of seven pieces of legislation focused on supporting our law enforcement officers and ensuring they have the resources and tools they need to keep our communities and themselves safe.

These bills all passed the House of Representatives with Tenney’s support:

H.R. 354, the Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) Reform Act, broadens the ability of qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms in areas such as school zones, national parks, federal facilities open to the public, and state, local, or private property open to the public.

H.R. 8146, the Police Our Border Act, requires the Attorney General to report detailed information on how Biden’s border crisis impacts our law enforcement, including exposures to fentanyl, injuries sustained, financial burdens, and operational strains.

H.R. 7343, the Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act, requires that illegal aliens who assault law enforcement officers are quickly arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) until they are removed from the United States.

H.R. 7581, the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act of 2024, requires the Attorney General to assemble reports on violence against law enforcement officers and the effectiveness of programs meant to provide law enforcement with wellness resources and protective equipment so we may comprehensively enhance the safety of police officers.

S. 546, the Recruit and Retain Act, expands the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant program to include recruitment and retention efforts and establishes the COPS Pipeline Partnership Program to support partnerships between local schools and law enforcement agencies to improve recruitment.

H. Res. 1213 addresses violence against law enforcement officers by condemning calls for defunding police and anti-police sentiment that have increased violence against police, acknowledging the mental and physical impacts such violence has on police, and expressing condolences and appreciation to the families of fallen law enforcement officers.

H. Res. 1210 condemns President Biden’s border crisis and the dangers and burdens it has created for America’s law enforcement officers and urges the Biden Administration to support the law enforcement officers defending our homeland.

“Our courageous law enforcement officers risk their lives every day for our communities, and they deserve to have the tools, legal protections, and support they need to do their jobs safely and efficiently,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Yet thanks to the ‘defund and demoralize the police’ movement perpetuated by President Biden and the Left, assaults on our law enforcement officers have hit a ten-year high. President Biden and Congressional Democrats have abandoned these brave men and women, choosing instead to support dangerous illegal immigrants and criminals. During National Police Week, House Republicans reiterated our support for our men and women in blue and passed multiple bills dedicated to combating skyrocketing crime and protecting our police officers. I will always Back the Blue and support our nation’s law enforcement officers!”

Bryce Bordonaro, a Le Roy High School graduate and son of the late Deputy Frank Bordonaro, graduated on Wednesday from the New York State Police Academy.

Bordonaro begins field training in Lockport on Friday.

Frank Bordonaro, 44, suffered a line-of-duty death in July 2014. Within a 24-hour period, the 19-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office was the responding officer to a fatal accident involving a pea harvester and a major house fire on North Road in Le Roy.  He died of an apparent heart attack at home after ending his last duty shift.

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 TOP-DWI posters.

Batavia Police Officer Joseph Weglarski, Genesee County Sheriff Deputy Zachary Hoy and Village of LeRoy Police Department Officer Jordan Wolcott were honored for their top performances in DWI arrests and their dedication to keeping the community safe.

The poster contest is divided into three categories. There are 1st-3rd place winners in two grade categories, 6-8 and 9-12, as well as a Computer-Generated Art Winner.

6th - 8th grade winners: 

• Alyssa Bailey, 
• Jameson Hargrave, 
• Deborah Heineman, 
• Taylor Louis and 
• Peyton Gay. 

9th - 12th grade winners: 

• Taelynn Bragg, 
• Savannah Meyer and 
• Aiden Vallett. 

The grand prize winner is Marley Santos.

To view all of the winning posters, click here.

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.

Press release:

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.

Press release:

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.

Press release:

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

Press release:

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.

Genesee County Police Reform & Reinvention Committee Meeting Jan 19, 2021. The committee will review its draft report.

Sgt. Greg Kellogg, Le Roy PD, and troopers Ben Hersee, Stephanie Grimaldi and Bill Franz, show off some of the toys collected at Target today for the annual Stuff the Cruiser event.

Local law enforcement gathers for the event each year to collect donations for children who might not otherwise fund many presents under their Christmas trees. Besides Le Roy PD and State Police, participating this year were the Sheriff's Office, Batavia PD, Corfu PD, GC Probation Department, and the Department of Environmental Conservation.

Brooke Fisher, 5, drops off a toy with Le Roy PD Officer CJ Miller and Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, Sheriff's Office.

Photo submitted by Greg Kellogg of the final haul of presents.

Photo from left: Correction Officers Michael A. Strumpf, Christopher L. Seelbinder, Austin J. Davis, Matthew M.J. Luce, and Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur.
Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. announces the graduation of Correction Officers Michael A. Strumpf, Christopher L. Seelbinder, Austin J. Davis and Matthew M.J. Luce.

These Correction Officers recently graduated in a class of 18 from the Livingston County Basic Corrections Academy. Correction Officer Davis was one of two team leaders of the class. The six-week training included instruction in the care and custody of inmates, inmate supervision, defensive tactics, firearms training, and other topics pertaining to corrections.

“Congratulations to Correction Officers Strumpf, Seelbinder, Davis and Luce and welcome to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office family,” Sheriff Sheron said.

More than 200 motorcycle club members from throughout the region came together Sunday afternoon to ride to the headquarters of various police agencies as a show of support for local law enforcement.

Organizer Jesse Underwood said it was a chance for members of Genesee ABATE to remind people that most cops are good cops and that they jeopardize their lives to protect and serve.

"They've got a tough job to do right now," Underwood said. "They get up in the morning and put on their badge and head out to work and they may not make it home again."

These photos are from the group's stop at the NYSP headquarters on West Saile Drive. The riders also stopped at the Sheriff's Office and Batavia PD before heading to Orleans County.

Press release:

The City of Batavia Police Department is proud to introduce the newest member of the Department, K-9 “Hank,” with handler Officer Stephen Quider. “Hank” is a 1-year old Belgian Malinois/Shepard mix from Holland.

He was purchased from Upstate K-9 with asset forfeiture funding from the Department of Homeland Security Investigations in Buffalo. “Hank” and Officer Quider have begun their training in Monroe County. “Hank” will be trained as a dual-purpose Police K-9. He will be trained in narcotics detection, tracking and apprehension.

The Police Department conducted an initial fund-raising effort last year to help offset some of the costs associated with the program and received overwhelming support, raising more than $11,000 to date. All donations go toward food, toys and medicine to ensure “Hank” remains healthy and happy.

The Department continues to accept donations to assist in supporting the program, anyone wishing to donate can contact the City Police Department at (585) 345-6356.

From Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy, president, New York State Sheriffs’ Association on behalf of the Sheriffs of New York State:

As professional law enforcement officers who have dedicated their careers to saving lives and helping people in need, the Sheriffs of New York State condemn the senseless, shocking action of the officer who unjustifiably took the life of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.

It was against everything we stand for, everything we train for and everything we demand and rightfully expect from our police officers.

We also condemn those who, since then, have used that great injustice as an excuse to commit other senseless, brutal acts which unjustly deprive more innocent people of their lives, their livelihood, their life savings and their livable communities.

Conservators of the Peace Sworn to Uphold the Constitution

We are sworn to uphold the Constitution and we fully support the Constitutional right of all citizens to peacefully assemble, protest and petition their government for desired change.

As Constitutional officers who have been given the duty of Conservators of the Peace in the counties, we know that conserving the peace does not mean just keeping everyone calm. It means assuring an atmosphere where all citizens can enjoy their rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness without having those rights unduly infringed upon by others.

Thus while we will do all we can to accommodate and protect those who feel compelled to publicly display, in a peaceful way, their justifiable outrage at the way George Floyd died, we will not condone or accommodate in any way those who would deprive others of their rights by hijacking those legitimate displays of concern to turn them into opportunities to assault, murder, loot, burn and spread anarchy.

We Ask Politicians and Leaders to Refrain from Incendiary Comments

We also must ask those politicians and other leaders in the communities who continually speak of “systemic racism” in our police agencies for their own political advantage to refrain from such unfounded and incendiary comments. It is disgusting conduct, which itself fuels racism on all sides, and leads to worse, not better race relations in this country. Instead we would welcome them to engage with us in open and honest discussions on how we can enhance community relations while regaining the public’s trust in law enforcement through fact-based studies and training.

Deputy Sheriffs and all law enforcement officers suffer because irresponsible leaders paint them with a broad brush. There are 800,000 police officers in this country. The inexcusable action of one police officer in Minneapolis cannot be used to justify labelling all 800,000 dedicated, hard-working police officers as racist. We know of no police officer who condones the actions of that one rogue cop in Minneapolis.

They, like most citizens, were sickened to see that video, but we also know that it is not representative of the 53.5 million contacts that law enforcement has with civilians annually. We know of no police officer who joined the force because they saw it as a license to kill or abuse others. Most police officers join out of a simple desire to help people… of any race. Most police officers have shown more helpfulness, and personal compassion and kindness toward down-and-out citizens… black, brown, yellow or white… than have any of the self-righteous politicians and others who sow hatred and distrust of the police with their irresponsible rhetoric.

Those politicians, when they finish their rants, can then go home to their mansions and comfortable homes, secure in the knowledge that the police officers which they just maligned will continue to do their duty to protect them and all the citizens of their communities, even though their job has been made doubly more difficult by race-baiting rhetoric.

Sheriffs Work Hard to Build Public Trust

There is one thing upon which we and critics of the police can agree: there is distrust of the police in many minority communities. We Sheriffs work hard to build public trust in law enforcement. The training of our Deputy Sheriffs includes extensive training in community relations, anti-racism, recognizing implicit bias, and proper use of force. This training results in officers who are sensitive to the need for racial neutrality in enforcing the law, and their enforcement decisions are based upon a person’s conduct, not their color. That plain fact is, of course, contrary to the popular narrative.

In conclusion, the Sheriffs of New York make a commitment to our communities. We, and our citizens, desire a society where we can all live in true peace. While each of us has Sheriffs have outreach, in some form, to community and religious groups and to minority organizations and minority communities, it is clear that more has to be done to combat the false view of police as the oppressors, which has been inculcated into many minority communities, and which allows opportunists to take advantage of such things as the George Floyd tragedy to foment more hatred and more chaos.

The Sheriffs of New York, through our New York State Sheriffs’ Association, will immediately undertake the task of strengthening, in an organized way, the ties between Sheriffs’ Offices and minority communities and organizations in the counties across the State, with a goal of affirmatively demonstrating that our desire is to serve all citizens, and as the Conservators of the Peace in the counties, to secure to those citizens true peace, which means the opportunity to enjoy life, liberty and happiness in a just world.

Le Roy Police Department is putting on a special charity event on Saturday, Nov. 30, to help Genesee County families in need this holiday season.

Le Roy PD will be joined by New York State Police - Troop A in Batavia, New York State Environmental Conservation Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia Police Department, Corfu Police Department, Genesee County Probation and Rotary International.

"Stuff the Cruiser" will take place 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the Target parking lot at Towne Center at Batavia on Veterans Memorial Drive.

Bring unwrapped toys, new clothing and nonperishable foods to stuff in a police vehicle. This is a kid friendly event, fun for the whole family.