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Sheriff's Office

William Sheron takes oath of office for second term

By Press Release

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Press release:

William A. Sheron Jr. was administered the oath of office yesterday by the Honorable Thomas A. Graham for his second term as Genesee County Sheriff. Sheriff Sheron began his career in 1977 as a 9-1-1 Dispatcher and rose through the ranks, including 21 years as Undersheriff before being first elected Sheriff in 2016. 

Sheriff Sheron has appointed Bradley D. Mazur as his Undersheriff. Mazur began his career in 1999, and has held several positions, which include Deputy, Sergeant, and Undersheriff the past two years.              

“I look forward to serving the citizens of Genesee County for the next four years as Undersheriff and working alongside our sworn and non-sworn members of the Sheriff’s Office to continue to provide a very high level of professional service,” said Undersheriff Mazur.

Sheriff Sheron said, “I am humbled by the confidence that the citizens of Genesee County have expressed by reelecting me to a second term as their Sheriff. I pledge to continue to lead and serve with honesty, integrity, compassion and respect and am extremely proud to be associated with the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office.”

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Genesee County sheriff pledges to strengthen connection to the community

By Mike Pettinella

As the Genesee County Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative checks off the items it needs to cover per Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Executive Order 203 on community policing, Sheriff William Sheron is taking it a step further by adding increased community input to the list.

Sheron addressed three more topics mandated in the executive order during Monday night’s Zoom videoconference meeting – hot spot policing, focused deterrence and crime prevention through environmental design – but also spoke at length about his department’s need to connect with the public.

“One of the things that needs to come out of this project is to develop a program to meet on a regular basis with the citizens of our county to identify their concerns about criminal activity,” Sheron said.

During the 40-minute meeting, the sheriff outlined several areas that could be improved by regular communication with government and civic leaders as well as residents.

  • Annual Crime Statistics Report

Sheron said the plan is to put out a report within the next few months for 2020, detailing the types of crimes by town.

“I think it is very important that we get that out there so the citizens have a clear understanding of what the community is like, what kind of crimes that we are investigating. It’s transparency and I hope to resurrect that for 2020.”

  • Regular Town Hall Meetings

Sheron said he looks to meet with community leaders and citizens to find what areas the community would like officers to focus on.

“We don’t formally hold meetings, but again that is an area of improvement. Typically, (we connect through) phone calls, emails, posting on our Facebook page or web page.”

  • Speaking at Town & Village Board Meetings

Sheron said he hopes to contact town and village boards to have a spot on their meeting agendas to let them know what activities that are going on in their communities and to get some feedback and suggestions.

“That is something that I would include in the report (to the state by April 1) as that’s an area where we can improve,” he noted.

  • Promoting the Tipline ((585) 343-3020) and a Webpage Link for Suggestions

The sheriff said the department receives calls on a regular basis about drug activity and other crimes, but agreed that it needs to be reinforced through public service announcements and other initiatives.

He also said that prior to the next committee meeting on Jan. 4, a link will be added to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department website that citizens may utilize to submit comments, suggestions, complaints, etc., directly to the agency.

“I think that’s a great idea,” he said. “(Now, we really don’t have an area for suggestions and complaints. We will have a link on there for citizens to ask questions and provide information – good, bad and indifferent – and then we can follow up on that.”

HOT SPOT POLICING

Sheron defined hot spot policing as identifying and analyzing specific crime problems and locations and targeting resources toward solving those problems.

“We’re a little bit different in that we cover mostly a rural area opposed to an urban area, so our hot spot policing usually gets developed from citizen complaints – many to do with drug activity, a lot of vehicle and traffic complaints, or that we may be seeing an increase of burglaries or so forth,” he said.

Tools used in this regard, he said, including the Genesee County Drug Task Force (in conjunction with the other county police agencies), confidential informants, the City of Batavia Neighborhood and Enforcement Team, Police Traffic Safety grants, STOP-DWI, Monroe Crime Analysis Center and dedicated patrols in areas of potentially high drug, theft and traffic activity.

“We also have a patrol assigned to a 'hot spot' which is the core detail – Veterans Memorial (Drive) and that area with all the big box stores … where there is tremendous amount of traffic and considerable amount of theft in that area,” he offered.

“Again, this is much different than what you would see in an urban area like Rochester or Buffalo, where they have concentrations on violent crimes, shootings. We don’t have that in this area, thank God, but we do have ‘hot spot’ policing for specific situations."

FOCUSED DETERRENCE

Focused deterrence is a crime-reduction strategy, which aims to deter crime by increasing the swiftness, severity and certainty of punishment, usually directed at a specific crime problem such as gun violence, and primarily administered through prosecution and the courts, Sheron said.

Initiatives utilized in this area include KOPER Patrol, officers assigned to specific areas of suspected criminal activity; cooperation with the district attorney’s office, and the Genesee County Drug Task Force.

“Over the years, county court judges have been harsh with their punishment -- very stern with their sentences – and it sends a message clearly to those individuals that are coming in from outside this area to deal drugs in our communities,” he said.

CRIME PREVENTION/ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN

The sheriff explained that attention to environmental design can help to increase the probability that an offender will be caught. Studies show that increased probability of capture tends to deter the commission of crime.

Examples of crime prevention through environmental design would be better lighting in crime-prone areas, conspicuous placement of security cameras with attendant conspicuous signage, elimination of shrubbery where it could serve as a hiding place for an attacker, etc.

In Genesee County, the Sheriff’s Office works with businesses, schools and individuals on crime prevention and personal safety issues; employs Civilian Response to Active Shooter Training, Neighborhood Watch, school resource officers, information about scams against the public, compliance checks at establishments that sell or serve alcohol and responsible server training.

He mentioned that cooperation among all law enforcement agencies in Genesee County goes a long way in the success of these programs.

“We do have a tremendous sharing of information and cooperation between the city and county,” Sheron said. “Genesee County as a whole … I don’t know if I’ve ever seen the cooperation as good as it is now.”

Emergency Services Dispatcher exam to be given Jan. 16, apply by Dec. 9

By Press Release

Emergency Services Dispatcher Exam

The open competitive Genesee County Civil Service Exam for the position of Emergency Services Dispatcher is being given Jan. 16.

Please visit the Genesee County website for a full job description, minimum qualifications, and instructions on how to submit your application by the deadline of Dec. 9.

Sheriff supports more training on implicit, racial bias; applauds success of school resource officers

By Mike Pettinella

Implicit bias is, according to dictionary.com, a predisposition that results from the tendency to process information based on unconscious associations and feelings, even when these are contrary to one’s conscious or declared beliefs.

That concept has been widely discussed and analyzed in recent weeks in the context of social justice and policing, and it came up tonight during a meeting of the Genesee County Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative via Zoom videoconferencing.

Laura Williams, a Social Studies teacher at Elba Central School and committee member, asked Sheriff William Sheron if his department is doing anything to address implicit bias.

“As part of being a teacher, I feel like I have very open blinders and I have for many years, and since March, I have been doing a lot of reading about this movement of Black Lives Matter and police force … (and) one thing that I dove very deep into is this notion of implicit bias and it really opened my eyes, even though I thought my eyes were very open about this notion of implicit bias,” Williams said.

“Is there any more training that you’re doing with your staff and everybody in your department to revisit again this idea that we all have this bias and we all need to reimagine everything the way that we address every single issue that we’re handling?”

Sheron, after noting that Julie Carasone, another committee member, did a presentation for county management people on bias, said that “is an area where we could definitely use more training.”

Mandatory Training in the Works

“The officers do receive training in the basic academy … and there’s really not much follow-up to it. So, we have mentioned that as one of the things – and I am sure the Division of Criminal Justice Services, through the Municipal Police Training Council, is going to make that a mandatory in-service training, probably on an annual basis,” he said. “It’s absolutely an area we need to focus on as we move forward.”

He then mentioned systematic racial bias, stating that although he had no studies specific to Genesee County to report, he didn’t think his agency has the “degree of issues that maybe your inner city or your larger city departments have.”

“I think that not only the Sheriff’s Office but the Batavia PD, Le Roy PD – we’re very well supervised and scrutinized, and quite frankly, officers don’t put up with that.”

Still, he said he believes that increased awareness and education regarding implicit and racial bias should be part of ongoing in-service training.

Williams commended Sheron on running a department that has taken steps to foster community relationships.

“I have been having those conversations with friends of mine in Le Roy and in Elba, where I work, that the reason that it is so difficult for many of us in Genesee County to grasp the conflicts going on across the country is because, I think, we really don’t have this enormous issue with our police force and our Sheriff’s department,” she offered.

Very Few Complaints Against Officers

Sheron said he has received very few – “seven or eight this year,” he said – complaints about officer behavior and very few, if any, about excessive force.

On interaction with the public, he acknowledged that there is always room for improvement.

“Some officers have a very good demeanor with the public; some officers can use improvement,” he said. “Again, it’s give-and-take. You give respect; you get respect. But even if you don’t get that respect, you (police officer) still have to be professional and just do your job.”

He said complaints are dealt with immediately.

“We have a complaint form that is given to the individual to file a complaint and we start looking at the body cam video right away. We do not accept performance by an officer that is less than par,” he said.

Rachel Gelabale, international student at GCC and committee member, asked about the Sheriff’s Office’s interaction with the community through activities and events, particularly a shopping day with kids around the Christmas season.

“Yes, we do. That’s called Shop with the Cop,” Sheron said. “We’ve always hooked up with Walmart to do that for the kids. Unfortunately, from what I’m being told, this year Walmart will not be taking part in that.

Program for Needy Kids is on 'Target'

“However, Target has a program that they have started, called Stuff the Cruiser, and each of the police agencies here in Genesee County will have a patrol vehicle out in front of Target and individuals can buy toys and so forth for the needy here in the county and we will distribute them.”

Tonight’s meeting also touched upon de-escalation training and practices, and law enforcement assisted diversion programs.

Sheron said his department doesn’t have a de-escalation policy, but refers to guidelines in the use of force policy.

“I believe the DCJS and MPTC is going to come out with a mandatory in-service training for a year,” he said. “We do go through a use of force training every year in conjunction with our firearms training.”

The ability of deputies on road patrol to bring a situation under control is vital to successful police work, Sheron said.

“Genesee County is very rural and our patrols are spread thin. It’s well known and accepted by our officers out there on the street that they better be able to de-escalate because their backup may be 15 to 20 minutes away. And they’re very good at it,” he said. “I always say you’re going to do more with your mouth than you’ll do with your fist. They need to talk. They need to communicate with people.”

He said his agency will be forming a de-escalation policy after receiving a model policy from New York State.

“As an accredited agency, it’s much easier to follow exactly what they want us to do and the boilerplate they give us to work with than to try and reinvent the wheel,” he said.

A Model for Restorative Justice

Genesee Justice has been a model for restorative justice and diversion for many years, and continues to play a huge role in the community, said Catherine Uhly, the agency’s director.

Uhly outlined through PowerPoint slides the various components of the program that utilizes community sectors to ensure that the victim is heard and the offender has a chance to make amends, in most cases, without being incarcerated.

“You’re giving the voice to the victim, you’re giving the offender some accountability for what they have done, but you’re also giving them some competency development,” she said. “Our program is not just punishment … go to jail and you get out. Our programs try to develop some competency in the offender so they go on in their lives and do not recommit crimes. And encompassing it all is community safety.”

Uhly said Genesee Justice currently is working with 439 victims, including a large group affected by a breach-of-services case of a local funeral home director.

Genesee Justice also is working with 127 people in the DWI Conditional Discharge program for first-time offenders, 60 people in the Released Under Supervision and another 25 in the Pre-Trial Release programs (both alternatives to jail time) and 49 people in Ignition Interlock Supervision that aren’t part of DWI Conditional Discharge.

Community service is a longstanding part of Genesee Justice, with 165 offenders -- including those in the DWI Conditional Discharge track -- currently performing volunteer hours at nonprofit organizations throughout the county.

Uhly said GJ has a “high success rate” when it comes to those not violating while under supervision, but she did not have statistics on the rate of re-offending after completing the program.

When moderator Robert Bausch asked for some suggestions about how police officers can improve community relations, the subject of school resource officers came up.

SROs Forging Positive Relationships

“I think that is one of the big things with the SRO program,” Sheron said. “The relationships that we have made in the schools … sometimes you have to lay the law down, but more often than not, the relationships that we have made with the children are just phenomenal.

“They look up to the police officers again and they recognize that we are human beings and that we have families, too, and that we have made mistakes in our lives – and there’s really nothing we can’t get through if we all work together.”

He said all schools except Elba have SROs, and he speculated that cost could be a contributing factor in that district’s decision to not have one.

That prompted Williams to express her opinion on the matter.

“I work at that school and I think that that is part of it, but I also think that there’s a whole other aspect that’s sort of along the lines of what we are talking about here,” she said. “I think there are two methods of approaching this and bridging the gap between officers and, in this case, kids.

“… I think there’s a whole other audience we need to tap into as well. I think that there are some people who are hesitant to bring officers into a building for fear of scaring kids rather than acclimating kids to the positives that can come out of having an officer more directly in their lives. I’d be willing to help you with that.”

Sheron said he would appreciate any help.

“What you said, yes, I have heard that,” he said. “I was hoping that the SRO pretty much sells itself -- once you get the officer in there and they see what a good service it is, and how much the kids really enjoy it. And there’s the safety factor also.”

The group’s next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 7, with discussion expected to revolve around restorative justice practices, community-based outreach and conflict resolution, and problem-oriented policing.

Bill Sheron wins re-election as Genesee County Sheriff

By Howard B. Owens

In results tabulated by Genesee County election officials, though still unofficial, incumbent Sheriff William Sheron beat challenger David Krzemien 17,096 to 6,067 votes.

With a more than 11,000-vote lead and too few absentee ballots left to count, Sheron said tonight he felt comfortable declaring victory.

We were unable to reach Krzemien tonight. 

Sheron said, "I'm very pleased with all the people who supported me. Genesee County is my home. I love the community and I believe it's the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Law enforcement has been calling for me from a very young age. Of course, I've been able to surround myself with great people. I'm thrilled with the results."

Krzemien ran an aggressive race, which Sheron recognizes.

"Any time you have a challenger, people told me, you need to take them seriously," Sheron said. "I wouldn't say I was nervous. It was concerning. But any time you have opposition you have to take it seriously."

Sheron vowed to continue the tradition in Genesee County of providing outstanding law enforcement to local residents.

Sheron thanks those who have supported, endorsed and voted for his reelection bid for GC Sheriff

By Press Release

From Sheriff William A. Sheron, candidate for reelection:

ELECTION DAY IS HERE! 

With sincere gratitude, I’d like to acknowledge my community of supporters and those of you that have already cast your early vote for my reelection. 

As others head to the polls today, I remind you of my commitment to lead and serve with honesty, integrity, and respect. With your vote, Undersheriff Brad Mazur and I will continue to build upon the accomplishments of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and responsibly prepare to meet the future. 

A special thanks to those endorsing our campaign:

  • Genesee County Sheriff’s Employee Association (SEA)
  • Christopher K. Hayward, Village of Le Roy Chief of Police
  • Scott Fraser, Chapter Vice President -- FBI National Academy Associates NYS/Eastern Canada Chapter
  • Mark R. Gates, Past President - FBI National Academy Associates NYS/Eastern Canada Chapter
  • Gordon L. Dibble, Genesee County Legislator and Chief Deputy (Ret) Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
  • Jerome E. Brewster, Chief Deputy, CID (Ret) Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
  • R. Pete Welker, Investigator -- Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
  • Eugene Jankowski Jr., City of Batavia Council President and Lieutenant (Ret.) City of Batavia Police 
  • Gary T. Maha, Genesee County Legislator and Sheriff (Ret) Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
  • Pastor Marty Macdonald -- City Church, Batavia
  • Scott D. German, Genesee County Treasurer
  • Robert Bausch, Former Genesee County Legislator Chair and Chair of the Ways and Means Committee
  • Gary Russell, Sergeant (Ret) Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and former partner on Genesee County Drug Task Force
  • Members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Supervisory and Management Staff -- Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello, Sergeant Andrew B. Hale, Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp, Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Michael T. Sheflin, Communications Coordinator Russell L. Lang, Sergeant Jason E. Saile, Sergeant Michael J. Lute, Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer II, Sr. Correction Officer Jason R. Queal, Sr. Correction Officer Caleb C. Chaya, Sr. Correction Officer Peter M. Hoy, Sr. Correction Officer Matthew R. Burgett, Sr. Correction Officer Kevin D. Wolff, Sr. Correction Officer James M. Smart, Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Jason W. Holman.
  • County Sheriff’s Office Administrative Staff – Chief Deputy Joseph M. Graff, Chief Deputy Brian M. Frieday, Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel, Confidential Secretary Carolyn A. Della Penna, Director of Emergency Communication Steven C. Sharpe, Assistant Director of Emergency Communications/Operations Francis A. Riccobono.

Sheriff candidate Krzemien shares his vision for our community

By Press Release

From David H. Krzemien, candidate for Genesee County Sheriff:

Dear Neighbor,

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to share my vision for our community. I have more than 20 years of service in law enforcement and currently serve and the Darien Deputy Town Supervisor. These experiences uniquely qualify me to handle the duties of Sheriff.

I have selected Christopher Parker (Republican) as my choice for Undersheriff. Christopher is currently an Investigator at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, where he has had a long, respected career. His expertise and dedication to our county will make him a great Undersheriff, as a trusted advisor.

Earlier this year, I accepted the endorsement from our local Democrat Party, and created the Pro 2nd Amendment party line. We worked to create this secondary party to demonstrate our passion for the constitution and individual rights of our fellow community members. I am very fortunate to have endorsements from the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association (NYSTPBA) and the New York State Law Enforcement Officers Union, Council 82.

I believe now, more than ever, we must hold our elected leaders accountable, regardless of party. I am committed to keeping our community and our deputies safe, while listening to the needs of the people I serve. I pledge to be a voice for those who may be silent, to provide an open door where there is a blockade, and to bring honor and integrity to the office of Sheriff.

It would be a distinct privilege to serve as your Sheriff, however I cannot do this alone. With your help, I know we can magnify the strengths of our community, while building upon our weaknesses. I hope I can count on your vote on Election Day!

Please feel free to call me any time with questions or concerns. Thank You!

Phone:   (585) 483-8741

Email:   krzemienforsheriff@gmail.com

Mailing Address:   P.O. Box 1427, Batavia NY 14020

Website:   http://KrzemienForSheriff.com

Five questions with William Sheron and David Krzemien, candidates for Genesee County Sheriff

By Howard B. Owens

William Sheron

Why are you the best choice for Sheriff?
I am the best-qualified candidate for Sheriff of Genesee County. My vast law enforcement experience spans 43 years with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. I began my career at the age of 18 as a 9-1-1 Dispatcher and advanced through the ranks of Jail Deputy, Road Patrol Deputy, Road Patrol Sergeant, Investigator Genesee County Drug Task Force, Chief Deputy Road Patrol, Undersheriff for 21 years, and Sheriff the past four years. In addition, I was honored to have been selected to attend and graduate from the prestigious FBI National Law Enforcement Academy in Quantico, Va.  

This experience and training provide me with a complete understanding of the demanding administrative responsibilities associated with the position of Sheriff. In this position, I have oversight of multiple divisions and personnel of the Sheriff’s Office which include Road Patrol, Criminal Investigation Division, 9-1-1 Emergency Services Dispatch Center, County Jail, Civil Bureau, Genesee Justice, Justice for Children Advocacy Center, Court Security, and Animal Control. I also serve as an active member with local and New York State agencies and committees working with officials on numerous matters to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal requirements. Administrative duties also include the management of a nearly $15 million Sheriff’s Office budget.

The position of Sheriff is demanding and serves as the highest-ranking law enforcement officer in the county. It requires transparency to create accountability and build trust. For that reason, I released my entire, unredacted personnel file to the public to provide confidence in my honest work ethic and as evidence of my exemplary professional career.  

If elected, what reform or changes would you undertake during your term?
We have made great strides in my term as Sheriff and I will continue my work to keep the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office services at the level the county deserves. This requires continual training, accountability and transparency.

I will collaborate with County officials and the citizens of Genesee County to meet the requirements of NYS Governor’s Executive Order 203 (Reinventing Policing). Open and honest dialogue with members of our community is extremely important to develop best practices in policing. I welcome constructive feedback and encourage input to identify ways to improve our strategies.

I will continue to work with the Genesee County Legislature and the NYS Commission of Corrections on the construction of a new jail that meets our needs in the most economical way feasible.

I will continue efforts to push our state officials and Governor to repeal bail reform and provide judges the ability to confine dangerous criminals that jeopardize the safety of our citizens.

I will further my work with mental health officials and the specially trained officers of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) to expand and offer Mobile Intervention Team (MIT) services to assist individuals with mental health illness on the scene during their times of crisis.

Substance abuse is one of the leading underlying factors of incarcerated individuals. We are working on an inmate reentry program for individuals that suffer from addiction. These programs are designed to assist incarcerated individuals with a successful transition to their community after they are released. Improving reentry is a critical component to reducing drug use and its consequences.

Domestic violence continues to plague our society. I will hold abusers responsible for their actions while providing specialized officer training, and access to support for domestic violence victims.

Nationally, law enforcement conduct has been under scrutiny for several years. In reviewing the in-custody deaths that have sparked controversy and protest, which of them do you believe are potentially examples of police misconduct, and which of them do you think the police conduct might be justified?
Based solely on information reported through the media, it appears that the in-custody death of George Floyd in Minnesota represents an example of excessive force and police misconduct. Conversely, in the recent incident in Philadelphia in the death of Walter Wallace Jr., again, based solely on reported media, it would appear that the amount of force used was justified.

I would like to emphasize that before any final determinations can be made regarding any such incident, the entire evidence and factual information needs to be presented through our judicial system.  

You attended the March for Justice in Batavia over the summer. Some of your deputies have been critical of your attendance. Why did you think it important to attend this event?
As Sheriff of Genesee County, I represent ALL the citizens of our county. I welcomed the opportunity to listen to the concerns presented by individuals regarding policing and changes that may be needed. I believe that open exchange and discussions between citizens and law enforcement officials are critical to maintaining a free and fair society. It is an ever-changing world, we all have to be willing to make changes needed to live peacefully and productively.

What three books first published in English since the Enlightenment has informed you, influenced you or inspired you?
While books are certainly informative, I personally find relationships to be the most influential.

I am extremely fortunate to have worked with numerous dedicated, professional law enforcement officers throughout my career. I have learned a great deal from these officers and their guidance has influenced me tremendously. Through these relationships and experiences, I’ve learned that serving in law enforcement demands courage, knowledge, and integrity.

I am inspired to provide the citizens of Genesee County with a safe environment in which to live, work, and raise their families. I receive letters, phone calls, and emails of appreciation from county residents that remind me of this purpose, and affirm the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is doing great work.

I’m proud to serve as Sheriff for the citizens of Genesee County. I am influenced and inspired most by the dedicated men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement and emergency service agencies who consistently go above and beyond to keep Genesee County safe.

David Krzemien

Why are you the best choice for Sheriff?
I am the best choice for Sheriff because I have passion, leadership and drive. I plan on being present and active in the county and within the Sheriff’s Office. I want to learn the inner workings of the Sheriff’s Office to make improvements and unite all employees, this includes road deputies, jail staff and dispatchers. Not only am I looking to create a better work environment for the employees of the Sheriff’s Office, but I am also looking to improve the community as a whole. I want safe and secure communities where people can be proud to raise their families. I want to close the gap between law enforcement and the community, we need to be open and honest with each other so that we can create safer communities.

If elected, what reform or changes would you undertake during your term?
If elected I plan to implement the following:

  • Front Desk Position: I want the front desk manned for the majority of the day by a public servant to take walk-in complaints. We need to be available to the public when they need our assistance and this position will help ensure those voices are heard.
  • Task Force: I want to create a team of members of the Sheriff’s Office and social work professionals in the county. This task force will respond to and follow up on domestic violence or mental health-related incidents. This team will offer support to both the victim and the aggressor to ensure each side is receiving the proper support/help they need.
  • Annual Review Panel: Internally for our annual review, I would like to create a panel to rate the employees of the Sheriff’s Office. The panel will be made up of supervision and mentors to ensure that road deputies, jail staff and dispatchers are given the proper guidance to advance their careers.
  • Use of Force Follow-up: Any time an officer has to use force in the field I want a review of the incident done shortly thereafter. By reviewing the incident we are able to learn from these scenarios, teach others, and take practical steps to ensure the safety of all moving forward.
  • Connecting to the Community: I want to hear the concerns and comments our citizens have regarding law enforcement. To open up lines of communication between the public and law enforcement will aid in understanding the expectations that each side has of the other. Communicating and connecting with the community will bridge the gap between law enforcement and the public so we can work together to fight crime and create safer communities.

Nationally, law enforcement conduct has been under scrutiny for several years. In reviewing the in-custody deaths that have sparked controversy and protest, which of them do you believe are potentially examples of police misconduct, and which of them do you think the police conduct might be justified?
To be very frank, we do not have all the facts regarding the cases that have most recently sparked controversy. I am in no position to judge what happened based on secondhand knowledge or what the media is saying. No police officer goes to work with the intent to endanger the lives of another person. Most law enforcement agencies have been looking for ways to improve or change the way they police, all of this reform may actually help that come to fruition. We need to be forward-thinking when it comes to policing and how officers are being trained as opposed to how they were trained even 10 years ago. Officer safety is just as important as the safety of the citizens, we need to work together to bring change to our communities.

You did not attend the March for Justice in Batavia over the summer. Why not? If elected and a similar event were held in Batavia again, would you attend?
I did not attend the March for Justice out of respect for those peacefully protesting. I did not want people to think I was using the event for political gain/attention. People have a right to peacefully protest and if I were to have attended I believe I would’ve detracted from the people’s message. If a similar event were held while I was Sheriff, I would attend the event to ensure everyone’s safety. I would ensure all attendees were peaceful, and if there was a threat to that peace I would take action to protect the voice of the peaceful protesters.

What three books first published in English since the Enlightenment has informed you, influenced you or inspired you?
I’ve read "Effective Police Leadership" by Thomas Baker and used the text as a source of inspiration. I enjoy reading about leadership to learn new ways to be an effective and respected leader. I also read "Capital Gaines" by Chip Gaines and was inspired by the way the author Chip followed his dreams. He had the drive and passion to overcome obstacles to become a successful entrepreneur and leader of his family. Because of his experience, he is able to lead others to be just as successful. The most recent reading I’ve done is of the NYS Penal Law and the NYS Criminal Procedures Law, specifically article 245 regarding bail reform and discovery. Being up to date on the expectations of law enforcement with regard to criminal prosecution is vital to the Sheriff’s Office. To be the best leader I can be I need to know what is necessary for prosecution and be able to educate the deputies on how to best do their job in the field to result in a favorable outcome within the court system.

GC treasurer and former legislature chairman endorse Sheron for Sheriff

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. receives endorsements from Genesee County Treasurer Scott German (top photo, right) and former Genesee County Legislature Chair Robert Bausch.

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From Scott D. German, Genesee County Treasurer:

I have known Sheriff Sheron for about 25 years and know him to be a true law enforcement professional.  Sheriff Sheron had the opportunity to learn from the best, from the retired Sheriff Gary T. Maha, whom Bill had the pleasure to work for as Undersheriff for 21 years. Sheriff Sheron has 43 years of law enforcement experience working for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the last four as our Sheriff.  

Bill knows our Genesee County community, and he knows how to keep us safe at an economical cost to the taxpayers.  For the past 17 years as County Treasurer, I have worked with Bill regarding the finances of the Sheriff’s Office. He is acutely aware of the costs of law enforcement on the taxpayers, and he does keep that in mind when making decisions. Under Sheriff Sheron’s leadership, the department has continued to be in compliance of all 110 standards and has continued to be an accredited department since 2000.

Sheriff Sheron merits another four-year term as Genesee County Sheriff, and I fully endorse him for this position. Please join me in voting for William A. Sheron Jr. for another term as our Sheriff.

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From former Genesee County Legislature Chair Robert Bausch:

As a former Genesee County Legislature Chair, Legislator, and Chair of the Ways and Means Committee, I worked with Bill in his capacity as Undersheriff and Sheriff on a very real-time basis.   

Without a doubt, he is very professional, experienced and strongly committed to the safety and welfare of the citizens of Genesee County and our many visitors.  His foresight and desire to continually improve all areas of responsibility of the Sheriff’s Office is commendable.  

Bill Sheron has earned, and deserves, our support on Election Day.

Sheriff Sheron receives endorsement from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office Administrative staff

By Press Release

Press release:

I am sincerely humbled by the endorsement of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office Administrative staff. I thank them for their support of reelection to Sheriff of Genesee County and for their complete dedication to the citizens of Genesee County.

I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such true professionals that consistently go above and beyond to meet the demands associated with the administration of the Sheriff's Office.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

~Sheriff Bill Sheron

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Dear Genesee County Residents,

The current Genesee County Sheriff’s Office administrative staff offer this letter in support of the reelection of Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. Sheriff Sheron is a steadfast leader who demonstrates the values consistent with the type of Sheriff that Genesee County deserves. He is a man of honesty and integrity and is representative of the quality of the individuals that make up the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Sheron sets an expectation consisting of the highest standards in order to maintain the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office reputation of professionalism and respected service to the community.

Sheriff Sheron has dedicated his entire professional 43-year career to the citizens of Genesee County and has served in numerous roles within the Sheriff’s Office. This experience provides invaluable insight into the many facets of operations within the Sheriff’s Office, and also offers the experience of earning a true and genuine appreciation for the work performed each day by every individual at the Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Sheron’s experience is unquestionable and when difficult decisions need to be made, we know him to be a person of reason. He is open to differing opinions for consideration and discussion in an effort toward a sound resolution.

Sheriff Sheron carefully selected Bradley D. Mazur to serve as his Undersheriff. Undersheriff Mazur is a person of humility and uncompromising character who offers a 21-year career of consistent police work as a foundation for his work ethic and reputation. He holds a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and is very well-respected in the community. We know Undersheriff Mazur to be a thoughtful, rational leader who has assumed the role of Undersheriff promoting a fair standard.

During a time when the issue of trust has come into question in law enforcement, the dignity and integrity of each member of the Sheriff’s Office has never been more important. As members of the administrative team, both Sheriff Sheron and Undersheriff Mazur have earned our trust and proven themselves as the most-qualified candidates for the roles of Sheriff and Undersheriff of Genesee County.  

Please join us in support of Sheriff Sheron and Undersheriff Mazur in this year’s election. Each vote will make a difference.

Respectfully submitted,

Chief Deputy Joseph M. Graff

Chief Deputy Brian M. Frieday

Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel

Confidential Secretary Carolyn A. Della Penna

Director of Emergency Communications Steven C. Sharpe

Assistant Director of Emergency Communications/Operations Francis A. Riccobono

Investigator Chris Parker retires from Sheriff's Office after 23 years

By Howard B. Owens
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After 23 years in law enforcement, Investigator Chris Parker hung up his badge today and was given a salute send-off by his fellow deputies along with troopers and Batavia police officers as he walked out of the Sheriff's Office.

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Group photo: GC Sheriff's Office supervisors and managers show support for Sheron's reelection

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Undersheriff Mazur and I were invited to join the Genesee County Sheriff's Office supervisory and management staff for a photograph to show their support for my reelection. I sincerely appreciate their support and recognition of the administrative responsibilities associated with the position of Genesee County Sheriff.

Together, we make a great team in overseeing the operations of the Sheriff's Office.

Thank you.

Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Supervisory and Management Staff

Support Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. for Reelection

 

Photo from left:

Chief Deputy Criminal Investigations Joseph M. Graff

Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello

Sergeant Andrew B. Hale

Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp

Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Michael T. Sheflin

Chief Deputy Road Patrol Brian M. Frieday

Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr.

Communications Coordinator Russell L. Lang

Sergeant Jason E. Saile

Confidential Secretary Carolyn A. Della Penna

Sergeant Michael J. Lute

Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer, II

Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur

Asst. Director of Emergency Communications/Operations Frank A. Riccobono

Sr. Correction Officer Jason R. Queal

Sr. Correction Officer Caleb C. Chaya

Sr. Correction Officer Peter M. Hoy

Sr. Correction Officer Matthew R. Burgett

Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel

Sr. Correction Officer Kevin D. Wolff

Also in support but not pictured: Sr. Correction Officer James M. Smart and Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Jason W. Holman.

Pastor Marty Macdonald endorses Sheriff Sheron for reelection

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. receives endorsement for reelection from Pastor Marty Macdonald.

"I am truly honored and blessed to have received an endorsement from Pastor Marty Macdonald," Sheron said.

Dear Sheriff Sheron,

As Pastor of The City Church and St. Anthony's in Batavia, it is with great pleasure that I endorse you for reelection as Sheriff of Genesee County, NY.

As a lifelong resident of Genesee County, Bill Sheron's name has been synonymous with integrity, devotion, and great honor. Bill has proven his leadership in every sphere that he has dealt with. I am more than confident that he is the right person to be our Genesee County Sheriff.

As a member of Genesee County's Criminal Justice Advisory Council, I have observed Bill's devotion to his county and the people of it, as well as showing high regard to those who serve with him keeping our county safe.

As a Genesee County resident, I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to endorse Bill Sheron.

With gratitude,

Pastor Marty Macdonald

Batavia, NY 14020

Retired Sheriff Gary Maha endorses Sheriiff Sheron for reelection

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. has received a letter of endorsement from retired Genesee County Sheriff Gary T. Maha.  

"I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with Sheriff Maha for nearly 40 years with 21 of those years as his Undersheriff," Sheron said. "This provided me with the experience and knowledge to meet the demands associated with being Sheriff of Genesee County. Thank you Sheriff Maha for your support."

 

Dear Genesee County Voters:

I have known Sheriff Bill Sheron on a professional level for over 40 years. He served as my Undersheriff (second in command) for 21 years, and I can attest that he is a dedicated, compassionate, and professional law enforcement executive. Bill Sheron is highly qualified to continue as your Sheriff. 

He is a lifelong resident of Genesee County, raised his children here, and has resided in the City of Batavia his entire life. He graduated from Notre Dame High School and received his A.A.S Degree from Genesee Community College. Bill attended the prestigious F.B.I. National Academy, Quantico, Virginia, and attended the F.B.I. Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar. He is a Past President of the New York State/Eastern Canada chapter of the F.B.I National Academy Associates. In addition, he has over 27 years of experience in law enforcement/corrections administration with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. He came up through the ranks of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and knows all facets of the agency.

I encourage you to support and reelect Sheriff William A. Sheron.

Sincerely,

Gary T. Maha

(Sheriff-Retired)

Transit Authority Police Benevolent Association endorses David Krzemien for GC Sheriff

By Press Release

Press release:

Candidate for Sheriff David Krzemien announces the Transit Authority Police Department PBA has endorsed his campaign for Genesee County Sheriff. Krzemien spent most of his law enforcement career with the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority (NFTA) Police Department.

He worked in and around Erie, Niagara and for a short time Genesee County. Having the support of the Union that Krzemien was once president of is both humbling and an extreme honor. He is thankful for all of the support and well wishes as it gets closer to Election Day!

Letter from the Transit Authority Police Benevolent Association Inc.

The Transit Authority Police Benevolent Association Inc. is proud to announce the endorsement of David Krzemien for election as Genesee County Sheriff.

It is with great pleasure that the TAPDPBA is endorsing David Krzemien for election as Genesee County Sheriff. The challenges facing members of the law enforcement community are greater than ever before, and we need people like David Krzemien in a leadership position to help law enforcement officers better serve the residents of Genesee County.

As a retired member of the TAPDPBA, David proudly served the Western New York community as a police officer for over 20 years. During this time with the department he led the Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), working closely with local, state and federal agencies to monitor potential terroristic threats made to our border. David was promoted to Detective where he worked alongside the FBI, DEA and DA's Office for four years. David also served as the PBA Union President for three years and served on the union board for seven years.

Again, it is our pleasure to endorse David Krzemien for election as Genesee County Sheriff.

In Solidarity,

President Nick Cacciatore on behalf of the Transit Authority Police Benevolent Association

(Associated with the Police Conference of New York & the Western New York Police Association.)

GC Sheriff: K-9 teams 'bonding well' and making 'significant progress'

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. is pleased to provide an update on the Office’s two K-9 teams (Deputy James Stack / K-9 Rayzor, left, and Deputy Andrew Mullen / K-9 Frankie).  

Both K-9 teams are bonding well and are making significant progress through their training program and will be Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) patrol certified soon.

Patrol certification includes tracking, criminal apprehension, handler protection, building searches and obedience. Additional training at narcotics school will begin Nov. 2 and be completed Nov. 27 at which time both teams will be in service and fully trained.

“We greatly appreciate the remarkable public support received for this valuable program,” Sheriff Sheron said.

Jankowski pens letter of endorsement for Sheron's bid for reelection

By Press Release

Genesee County Sheriff Sheron is proud to announce the endorsement from Eugene Jankowski Jr., retired City of Batavia Police Lieutenant and current president of the Batavia City Council.

Letter of Endorsement for Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr.

As a retired Police Lieutenant from the City of Batavia Police Department, I officially endorse William Sheron Jr. for the Office of Genesee County Sheriff.

I've worked with William Sheron Jr. most of his 43 years of law enforcement service. We both started our law enforcement careers at the Genesee County Sheriff's Office as new employees. Later on we worked together as law enforcement supervisors in neighboring departments. The present day finds us working together, once again, Bill as Sheriff and I as a Batavia City Council member, providing public safety services for the City of Batavia and Genesee County.

I know Sheriff Sheron is a strong supporter of the U.S. Constitution and will enforce the laws fairly without bias. In these uncertain times, we need a Sheriff with knowledge, integrity, experience, transparency, and strong leadership. It's for those reasons I endorse William Sheron Jr. as the most-qualified person to serve as Sheriff of Genesee County.

Respectfully,

Eugene Jankowski Jr.

Lieutenant, City of Batavia Police Dept. (ret.)

Veteran GC Sheriff's Office investigator endorses Sheron

By Press Release

From Genesee County Sheriff's Investigator R. Pete Welker:

Genesee County Residents:

I am writing in support of re-electing William A. Sheron Jr. as the Sheriff of Genesee County.

I am a 25-year veteran of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, having served as a Corrections Officer, as a Uniformed Deputy Sheriff and, for the last 20 years, as an Investigator.  

With the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office being a relatively young department, including many officers in new supervisory positions, combined with all the new challenges due to New York State reforms being thrust upon the law enforcement community, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office doesn’t need change; it needs stability that comes through experience and proven leadership. Leadership that comes from 43 years of experience within the same department; leadership that comes from serving 20 years as the Undersheriff; and leadership that comes from already serving as Sheriff for over 3 years now.

During my entire career here at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Sheron has served in multiple supervisory positions: first as Chief Deputy (Road Patrol), then as the Undersheriff for 20 years (with former Sheriff Gary Maha), and finally as the Sheriff since January 1, 2017. Before my time here, Sheriff Sheron also served as a Dispatcher, a Deputy (Jail), a Deputy (Road Patrol), a Sergeant (Road Patrol/Drug Task Force), and as an Investigator.

With 43 years of law enforcement experience, all served within the same department, and after climbing through the ranks, Sheriff Sheron has acquired comprehensive knowledge regarding every aspect of the daily operations at our office. Sheriff Sheron oversees well over 100 employees from the Sheriff’s Office, the Jail, the Dispatch Center, the Animal Shelter, Genesee Justice, and the Justice for Children Advocacy Center.  

In addition to all of this, Sheriff Sheron also made a sound decision naming Brad Mazur as his Undersheriff. Brad Mazur served for 20 years at the Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy and then as a Sergeant and was consistently one of our most productive officers. Undersheriff Mazur exhibited great leadership qualities during his time as the Sergeant in charge of the Criminal Investigation Division as well as the Drug Task Force. Brad Mazur has impeccable character and has shown constant professionalism throughout his 20-year career. Brad is not only well respected within the divisions that fall under his supervision, but also within the community. I cannot think of anyone within our department that is better suited or more qualified to hold the position of Undersheriff than Brad Mazur.  

As a result of numerous retirements in recent years, the Sheriff now leads a very young department. We have a great group of outstanding new Deputies and about half of them were hired within the last 5 years. The most noteworthy changes came in the last two years when our two Chief Deputies retired with over 80 years of experience between them.

There are also new challenges facing law enforcement with the new bail and discovery reform laws in New York State. It won’t be a simple task learning to navigate through this new set of complications for law enforcement. It will not only affect the day-to-day operations of our patrols, but will also present new budgetary concerns due to the need for added personnel to handle the new discovery demands. With the time that these challenges will demand, it will be imperative that the person occupying the position of Sheriff already possess a proficient working knowledge of all the normal day-to-day operations of the multiple divisions that fall under the supervision of the Sheriff.  

I encourage the citizens of Genesee County to continue to support the professional law enforcement leadership in Genesee County by re-electing William A. Sheron for Sheriff.

Respectfully,

Investigator R. Pete Welker

Krzemien announces endorsement by UAW

By Press Release

Press release from David Krzemien:

I am honored that the UAW (United Auto Workers) Union, Region 9 has endorsed my campaign for Genesee County Sheriff! Throughout my careers I have been involved in unions. Looking out for and protecting the interests of others is something I take great pride in. We need to support American made and locally owned businesses, together we are stronger!

Text of the letter:

Dear David:

We are pleased to inform you the Western New York Community Action Program (CAP) Council, UAW Region 9, has endorsed your candidacy in this year's election for Sheriff of Genesee County.

Enclosed is the UAW's Union-Built, American-Made, vehicle guide for 2020. Please consider this list when purchasing your next vehicle.

Good luck for a successful campaign, and we look forward to helping you win on Election Day! If you have any questions, please call our office at (716) 632-1540.

Sincerely,
 
Jeff Binz, Director UAW Region 9
Tom Ashton Asst. Director UAW Region 9
Ed Balukas, National Cap Rep. UAW Region 9
Wence Valetin III, Chairperson WNY CAP, UAW Region 9

Sheriff's Office employees union endorses Sheron

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Employee’s Association, the Sheriff Office’s largest union, proudly announces our endorsement for the Republican candidate for Sheriff, William A. Sheron Jr.

In these trying times of misinformation and anti-law enforcement, we need a Sheriff with strong leadership, knowledge, experience, and integrity. William Sheron checks off all these boxes. He has worked in all aspects of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and has served in multiple supervisory capacities throughout his 43 years within the department, including 21 years as Undersheriff. He is also a lifetime resident of Genesee County.

William Sheron is the most qualified person for this position and is the clear-cut candidate. His proven leadership offers the stability, transparency, and integrity that Genesee County residents demand and deserve going forward.

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