law enforcement

Press release:

Genesee County STOP-DWI coordinator Matt Landers announced today that Genesee County Sheriff’s Department, City of Batavia Police Department and the Village of Le Roy Police Department will participate in a special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving.

The statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts start on Friday, Feb. 5^th, and will end on Monday, Feb. 8^th. The Super Bowl is America’s most watched national sporting event and Super Bowl Weekend is historically a deadly period for impaired driving.

New York State Police, County Sheriffs and municipal law enforcement agencies will collaborate across the state and will be out in force in this coordinated effort to reduce the number of alcohol-related injuries and deaths.

Undersheriff William Sheron reminds us: “that unlike a football game, life has no instant replay. A bad decision made while intoxicated cannot be challenged, can’t be reviewed and can’t be reversed.”

You can help to make a difference by Having a Plan! Download our new mobile app – “Have a Plan” and you will always be able to find a safe ride home www.stopdwi.org/mobileapp

Impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning. If you’re hosting a Super Bowl 50 party, designate a responsible driver before the game begins. We want fans to remember that it’s a choice. So root for your favorite team; enjoy your friends and family and remember “DON’T DRIVE, GET A RIDE!"

The STOP-DWI Super Bowl Weekend Crackdown is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association. The Statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign also targets St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day, 4^th of July, Labor Day Weekend, Halloween, and the national Holiday Season in December.

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

Deputy Jason Saile, a 10-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office, was named Officer of the Year by Sheriff Gary Maha during the department's annual awards luncheon yesterday at the Sheriff's Office on Park Road.

Dispatcher Jason W. Holman received the Distinguished Service Award.

The top longevity awards went to Chief Deputy Jerome Brewster and Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble, at 40 years each. Also awarded was Youth Officer John Dehm, who has been with the office for 35 years.

Commendations were awarded to Sgt. Eric Seppala, deputies Chad Cummings, Joseph Loftus Michael Lute, Andrew Hale, dispatchers Peggy Richardson, Steve Robinson, Michale Sheflin, corrections officers Kevin Thomas, Michale Cox, Peter Hoy and investigators Tim Weis and Kris Kautz.

Meritorious Service awards: Correction Officer Michael E. Glow, Sgt. Brian M. Frieday, Sgt. Jon R. Szumigala, Genesee Justice Case Manager Cathy T. Uhly, Sgt. James M. Meier, Sgt. Ronald E. Meides.

Weis and Szumigala were at the luncheon on their final days of duty before retirement.

Certificates of Appreciation were handed out to Julie A. Walsh, Mental Health clinical therapist for the JFCAC, Volunteer for Animals,Le Roy Officer Ryan W. Young (now a deputy),Szumigala, Weis and confidential secretary Carolyn A. Della Penna.

Here are the narratives for the awards to Saile and Holman:

OFFICER OF THE YEAR – DEPUTY SHERIFF JASON E. SAILE
Deputy Jason E. Saile has distinguished himself as a proactive, dedicated and enthusiastic Deputy Sheriff leading the “A” line shift for many years in DWI enforcement. During 2015, his 10th year with the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Saile had his best all-around year, not solely because he continued to be proactive in his enforcement, but because he emerged as a well-rounded, knowledgeable officer who is able to look beyond the laws and regulations to find answers and relief for the citizens and victims he encounters.  Deputy Saile made himself available for extra duty at a time when patrol strength was seriously depleted. He has used his certifications as a Crash Manager and Field Training Officer to enhance the services of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Saile commands respect with his knowledge, physical presence and his ability to empathize with the victims he encounters. His work has been exceptional. Deputy Jason E. Saile has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and most deserves to be named Officer of the Year.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD – SENIOR EMERGENCY SERVICES DISPATCHER JASON W. HOLMAN
Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Jason W. Holman has distinguished himself as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. For several years, Senior Dispatcher Holman has provided critical insight and assistance with upgrades, maintenance, and operational configurations of the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center computer-aided dispatch program, phone systems, and radio consoles. Senior Dispatcher Holman worked closely with the Genesee County Mutual Aid Fire Advisory Board to develop new policies and procedures to enhance and improve communications. His work handling concerns and working with the fire and emergency medical services to find workable solutions has been instrumental in the implementation of new technologies. Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher

Jason W. Holman reflects great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Holman

Hale, Loftus and Seppala receiving their awards for their conduct on the scene of the alleged murder and arson on Selden Road the morning of Dec. 1.

Robison and Sheflin receiving their awards for their conduct as dispatchers the morning of Dec. 1.

Cummings and Lute receiving their awards for rescuing a man from the storm drains under the Batavia Town Square parking lot in November.

Weis receiving his retirement badge and ID.

To purchase prints of photos, click here.

This slide show is a collection of some of the photos from 2015 of the fires, accidents, ceremonies and other events involving our first responders in 2015.

It was a year in which law enforcement responded to at least three incidents where officers' calm professionalism, despite the looming risk to their own safety, avoided rash action and prevented the situation from getting worse.

This year, we tragically lost a volunteer in the line of duty, and another had his life threatened, plus whether volunteers or paid personnel, these professionals have sacrificed time away from family, businesses and jobs to respond to both the routine and the difficult calls and they put in countless hours training.

We thank our first responders for keeping us safe and responding when we need them.

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office was awarded reaccreditation of its law enforcement bureau by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services during the New York State Law Enforcement Agency Accreditation Council meeting in Albany on Dec. 17.

The Sheriff’s Office went through an extensive reaccreditation audit back in October and was found to be in compliance with the program’s 133 standards. An accredited law enforcement agency is reassessed every five years and must show they have been in compliance with the standards during that time period. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office received its initial accreditation in year 2000.

The Law Enforcement Accreditation Program provides agencies with a method for developing and adhering to the highest standards of professionalism, efficiency and effectiveness within the field of law enforcement and to provide formal recognition of that excellence. The Law Enforcement Accreditation Program is voluntary. Of the approximately 550 law enforcement agencies within New York State, approximately 145 agencies are accredited.

“This is a testament of the professionalism of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

Deputy Debbie Snyder helps Isabell Alwardt shop for Christmas presents at Walmart during the Batavia's store first "Shop with a Cop" charity event. The Walmart Foundation provided $4,000 to the store so 40 children in the community could receive $100 each to buy Christmas presents for friends, family or themselves. The Alwardt family donated half of what they received to another family in the community.

Store Manager Shallenberger said he learned about other stores doing "Shop with a Cop" last year and started working on bringing the event to Batavia. He intends for it to become an annual event.

"I think our community needs to see how involved the police department really is in the community and the City of Batavia can see how involved Walmart in the community and that we’re able to this for the community, that we’re not just a retailer we can meet these special needs," Shallenberger said.

Gabriel Winn shops for a present with Deputy Ryan DeLong and Deputy Brad Mazur while, Joe Loconte, looks on.

The deputies, police officers and troopers who participated in the event -- there were enough uniformed officers from all of the departments so each child could shop with a cop -- were off duty and volunteering their time.

Members of City Church's youth group volunteered to wrap presents after checkout.

(Submitted photo. Pictured, from left, are: New York State Sheriffs’ Association President and Niagara County Sheriff Jim Voutour, Genesee County Chief Deputy – Road Patrol Gordon Dibble, and Saratoga County Sheriff Mike Zulo.)

Press release:

On Sept. 28, Genesee County Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble, along with 53 law enforcement supervisors from 29 Sheriff’s Offices around the state, attended the 18th Annual Law Enforcement Division Supervisors’ Continuing Education Program. Participants are provided with training in the latest advances in law enforcement. As law enforcement supervisor, the Chief Deputy of the Sheriff’s road patrol is responsible for operations and administrative matters related to the road patrol division.

(Submitted photo. Pictured, from left, are: New York State Sheriffs’ Association Executive Director Peter Kehoe, New York State Sheriffs’ Association First Vice President and Herkimer County Sheriff Christopher Farber, Genesee County Jail Superintendent William Zipfel, Rockland County Sheriff Lou Falco, and Saratoga County Sheriff Mike Zulo.)

On Oct. 2, Genesee County Jail Superintendent William Zipfel, along with over 100 county jail administrators from 51 county Sheriff's Offices attended the Jail Administrators' Continuing Education Conference. The yearly conference brings corrections professionals from around the state together to share best practices and new trends impacting their jails.

Both conferences included a discussion by Clinton County Sheriff David Favro and Franklin County Sheriff Kevin Mulverhill of the Sheriff’s response to the Dannemora escape.

Other topics discussed at the Law Enforcement Supervisors’ Conference included:

• a discussion regarding body cameras for police by Niagara County Sheriff Jim Voutour and Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo;
• an account of the Sullivan County drug bust by Sullivan County Sheriff Michael Schiff;
• a recap of an Albany County investigation into the death of a child by Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple.

Presentations at the Jail Superintendents’ Conference included:

• Field Intelligence Officer Kirk Kingsbury of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office presented on gang intelligence in county jails;
• Thomas Diina, Erie County Jail superintendent, gave a case study on mental health services in county jails along with Daniel Antonius, Ph.D., director of the Division of Forensic Psychiatry at the University of Buffalo, and Ronald Schoelerman, director of Intensive Adult Mental Health Services, Erie County Dept. of Mental Health;
• Orange County Jail Administrator Kenneth Decker presented on the use of Vivitrol in jails;
• Deputy Commissioner Justin Pruyne of the Westchester County Department of Correction presented a case study;
• Edward Bly of the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office and Chuck Newman of the Schoharie County Sheriff’s Office moderated the round table discussion “What’s New in County Jails."

These conferences are part of a training series offered each year. They were held at the Gideon Putnam Hotel in Saratoga Springs and were sponsored and organized by the New York State Sheriffs’ Association and the New York State Sheriffs' Institute. New York State Sheriffs' Association (NYSSA) First Vice President and Herkimer County Sheriff Christopher Farber presented certificates at the close of the conference along with Saratoga County Sheriff Mike Zurlo and Rockland County Sheriff Lou Falco.

Via our news partner, WBTA.

Bodycams may be in the future for Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies.

Genesee County Sheriff Gary Maha proposed the idea to the Public Service Committee for recommendation Tuesday. The Sheriff said the department "has been researching the implementation of a body camera program for our officers for about two years."    

There’s room in the department’s budget for the $495 bodycams according to the Sheriff, with a total cost of $42,000 for the 32 deputies.

Sheriff Maha also remarked that "Some people tend to act differently when they know they are being recorded and that's also a benefit to our people out in the field."

The cameras would record both audio and video and could potentially be used as evidence for both prosecution and defense.

Today, 19 law enforcement officers from throughout New York State graduated from a Drug Recognition Expert course conducted at Genesee Community College by instructor Sgt. Greg Walker, including Deputy Joseph Corona, above, with Sheriff Gary Maha, Undersheriff William Sheron, Corona, Renee Borden, NYS DRE coordinator, and Walker.

Below, members of the graduating class who were able to attend today's recognition program at GCC. Participants in the course included officers from NYPD, Central and Western New York.

Submitted photos.

The name of Frank Bordonaro, the Genesee County deputy who died at age 44 after completing a shift last year, is now etched into the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Several members of the local law enforcement community, including officers from the Sheriff's Office, Batavia PD and Le Roy PD, along with his family, are attending the ceremonies this week in Washington. Members of the group sent us these pictures.

The event, which honors fallen police officers, attracts thousands of law enforcement personnel from all over the nation and lasts several days.

Press release:

Sheriff Gary T. Maha has been informed by the Board of Directors of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund that Deputy Frank Bordonaro’s name has been approved for inclusion on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.

Frank passed away a few hours after his night shift ended on July 8, 2014, after 19 years of service with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. His name will be formally dedicated, along with other fallen officers during 2014, on May 13, 2015, during the 27th Annual Candlelight Vigil held during National Police Week in Washington, D.C.  

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 Police Week. The Memorial Service began in 1982 as a gathering in Senate Park of approximately 120 survivors and supporters of law enforcement. Decades later, the event, more commonly known as National Police Week, has grown to a series of events which attracts tens of thousands of survivors and law enforcement officers each year to honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice. National Police Week draws in between 25,000 to 40,000 attendees. The attendees come from departments throughout the United States as well as from agencies throughout the world. This provides a unique opportunity to meet others that share a common brotherhood. 

“Several officers from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office are planning on attending this event to pay tribute to Deputy Bordonaro,” stated Sheriff Maha.

Press release:

Genesee County STOP-DWI Coordinator Matt Landers has announced that Genesee County law enforcement agencies will participate in a special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving from March 13-18 in conjunction with St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

The Sheriff’s Department, City of Batavia Police Department and the Village of Le Roy Police Department are all taking part in the crackdown.

St. Patrick’s Day Weekend is historically a deadly period for impaired driving. New York State Police, County Sheriff and municipal law enforcement agencies across the state will be out in force in this across the board effort to reduce the number of alcohol related injuries and deaths.

Genesee County Undersheriff William Sheron said: “We know the history of impaired driving on and around St. Patrick’s Day. With this in mind, we will have extra patrols on duty to help ensure the safety of our highways during this time.”

The STOP-DWI St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Crackdown is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association and funded by local STOP-DWI programs as well as the STOP-DWI Foundation and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. This partnership has allowed local programs to significantly increase their enforcement and public awareness efforts.

The Statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign also targets Memorial Day, 4^th of July, Labor Day Weekend, Halloween and the national Holiday Season in December.

You can help to make a difference by Having a Plan! Download our new mobile app – “Have a Plan” and you will always be able to find a safe ride home www.stopdwi.org/mobileapp

While STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol and drug related fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving.

As a young man, Tim Hayes had every intention of being a firefighter. Born and raised in Chili, he got an associates degree in fire protection technology, but then found paid firefighting jobs were few and far between, so just for the heck of it he took the police exam.

And passed.

That opened the door to a 30-year career in law enforcement, most of it spent with Le Roy PD.

This month, Hayes closes the curtain on that career and becomes a school bus driver.

Hayes said the recent death of Deputy Frank Bordonaro caused him to reflect on the length of his career and the fact that sticking around longer wouldn't do much to increase his pension.

Law enforcement, he said, isn't very conducive to family life, especially as a sergeant and second in command.

"You can never get away," he said. "Your phone rings at night, it rings on weekends, it rings while you're on vacation. There's good benefits. It pays well. I've met a lot of interesting people, and I've had a chance sometimes to have an impact on people's lives, but it's not a family friendly schedule."

Hayes is married to Trish and they have two adult sons -- Eric, 21, a corrections officer at the jail, and Dan, 19, who is studying to be an astrophysicist.

The most memorable part of his career, Hayes said, accounts for only about 1/30th of it -- the year he spent working undercover for the Local Drug Task Force.

"You get a chance to see things you never see in uniform," he said. "I can remember being in houses for undercover buys and the kids were right there and mom and dad were puffing a crack pipe. They would sell their soul if it was another $20 for the next rock they were going to buy.

"You see what people will do to score that next hit and it makes you wonder if there isn't a better answer, because it ensnares them and they can't get out," Hayes added.

Working undercover also changed the way he dealt with people, Hayes said. As an undercover agent, he grew his hair out into a ponytail and had a Fu Manchu moustache. He looked bad. He looked mean. Even if he was the same nice guy he's always been. People would cross the street to avoid crossing his path.

"My son was sick and in the hospital and I came to find out that they were going to have security come and check me out when I went in to visit him," Hayes recalled.

It's an old lesson, but one Hayes said stuck with him. You can't judge a book by its cover.

"That's what I tried to take forward," Hayes said. "I really didn't care what you looked like, I could still treat you politely and professionally until you give me a reason not to, and then I would do what I needed to do. Just because somebody looks a certain way, you have no idea what's on the inside."

Ron Burroughs sent in these pictures of the State Police aviation unit training at the Genesee County Airport this morning.

The State Police helicopter is actually no longer stationed in Batavia, having been moved to Rochester, according to county officials. The move has cut into the county's fuel tax revenue from the airport.

Major Michael J. Cerretto has been appointed commander of Troop A, NY State Police.

Here is a brief overveiw of his career with the State Police:

Major Michael J. Cerretto, 48, is a Navy veteran with more than 26 years of service with the New York State Police. He started his State Police career in 1987, serving as a uniform trooper in Troop E, Monroe County.

Cerretto was promoted to sergeant in 1991 and was assigned to Troop K, Westchester County. In 1992, Cerretto was transferred to Troop A where he was promoted to the position of Sergeant/Station Commander serving in Wellsville and Batavia.

In 1994, he was assigned as an Investigator with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) to work in the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force. He received his promotion to Lieutenant in 1996 working as both Uniform and BCI Lieutenant in Troops A and E. He is a graduate of 190th session of the FBI National Academy, in Quantico, Va.

In March 2003, Cerretto was promoted to Captain, accepting an assignment to the Internal Affairs Bureau in Syracuse. He returned to the uniform division in 2005, taking command of the Rochester area in Troop E.

In June 2013, Cerretto returned to Troop A, as the acting Troop Commander, receiving his promotion to Major in July. He is the 22nd Troop Commander in the 96 year history of Troop A.

As Troop A Commander, Cerretto oversees the State Police patrol and investigative operations in the eight (8) counties of Western New York. Under his command will be more than 453 civilian and sworn personnel.

Photo by Howard Owens.

How long does it take a police officer to learn how to get people to blow into a plastic tube?

This isn't the set up to a joke. The fact is, the NYS Department of Health requires police officers to take a three-day course and pass a certification test before he or she can administer a breathalyzer test to a suspected drunken driver.

Seventeen law enforcement officers from as far away as Stuben County have been in Le Roy for three days earning their breath-test certification.

The class is being taught by Sgt. Michael Hare of Le Roy PD and Sgt. Brian Frieday.

Accurate results from a certified tester are needed in case the test is challeged in court.

Members of the Genesee County legal community gathered at Bohn's Restaurant on Thursday evening for the Law Day Observance & Law Enforcement Recognition Dinner.

Above, Deputy Ron Meides receives an award from Sheriff Gary Maha while District Attorney Lawrence Friedman looks on. Second photo, Investigator Leo Hunter accepts an award from State Police. Presenting the award, left, was Lt. John Aqualina of the NYSP.

Officer Emily Clark, Le Roy PD, received an award.

The four law enforcement award winners, Meides, Clark, Batavia PD Det. Paul Caffo and Hunter.

The Batavia High School Mock Trial Team, winners of the local competition for the ninth straight year. On the team (though not in picture order, nor are all members pictured): Will Ely, Chad Luce, Jenna Bauer, Evan Sutherland, Patrick Flynn, Maura Chmielowiec, Mckenzie Stevens, Zeke Lynn, Eva Reda-Kendrick, Nate Kabel, Matt Gabrielle, Taylor Sanders, Katlin Logsdon, Kaitlynn Walker and Trey Abdella. The teacher coach, back row, left, is Brandon Ricci, and the attorney coach, back row, right, is Billy Tedford.

Pastor Philip Green, center, with Sheriff Maha and Undersheriff Bill Sheron, also received a special recognition award for his work with the department. Green was the 2011 National Sheriff's Association "Chaplain of the Year."

Sarah Palermo was honored by GCASA for her anti-DWI contributions.

UPDATE: To purchase pictures, click here.

Full press release for the law enforcement awards after the jump:

Kiwanis President Lawrence Friedman announced the awards during a dinner held at Bohn’s Restaurant on Thursday, April 28, 2011. The awards dinner was held in partnership with the Genesee County Bar Association during their observance of Law Day. The honored speaker at the dinner was Victor I. Vieth, JD, Director of the National Child Prevention Training Center, Winona State University, Winona, Minn.

Background Information about the Award

The purpose of the Law Enforcement Recognition Award is to honor those members of our local law enforcement agencies who have demonstrated principles and ideals consistent with those promoted by the Kiwanis Club of Batavia.

Nominations for the award were evaluated based upon the candidates’ actions and achievements, in their personal and professional lives, which demonstrate precepts consistent with those of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia, specifically: - A commitment to human and spiritual qualities, rather than material values. - Adoption and application of high social, business and professional standards. - Citizenship and service to the community and their agency. - A desire to create and maintain sound public opinion and high idealism, which promotes compassion, justice, patriotism and goodwill.

All sworn and civilian employees serving in local law enforcement agencies within Genesee County are eligible for this award.

2011 AWARD RECIPIENTS

Detective Paul B. Caffo, City of Batavia Police Department Detective Paul B. Caffo has been a member of the City of Batavia Police Department for 18 years. Detective Caffo grew up in Batavia and graduated from Batavia High School in 1986. During his career with the Batavia Police Department, Detective Caffo has received numerous commendations for his work as a police officer and detective. The overwhelming theme in Detective Caffo’s work is his spirit of cooperation with members of his department and other law enforcement agencies. Detective Caffo is currently assigned to the Local Law Enforcement Drug Task Force and makes himself available to officers seven days a week and 24 hours a day. Even with this demand on his time, Detective Caffo still assists the Detective Bureau with criminal investigations and rotating with the on-call schedule. Detective Caffo resides in the Town of Batavia with his wife, Kelly, and was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Police Chief Randy Baker.

Deputy Ronald E. Meides – Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Ronald E. Meides is a 20-year veteran with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. He started as a Corrections Officer in 1991 and was appointed a Deputy Sheriff in 1993. Deputy Meides is currently assigned to road patrol and works out of the Sheriff’s Darien Satellite station. Deputy Meides is a dedicated, compassionate and professional law enforcement officer and performs his duties with enthusiasm. He has had extensive training during his tenure with the Sheriff’s Office and was the 2009 Officer of the Year. Deputy Meides assists his community in many ways. He is an active member of the Darien Fire Department and has coached T-ball and fall soccer for the Bennington Town Youth Athletics. He is also a soccer coach for the Attica Youth Athletics. Deputy Meides has assisted the Boy Scouts by participating in the 2007 Merit Badge College Event in the areas of traffic safety and fingerprinting. Annually, Deputy Meides instructs at Darien Lake with regard on how to recognize fraudulent or altered drivers’ licenses. Deputy Meides is very aggressive in DWI enforcement and in 1995 was recognized by the Genesee County Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his outstanding efforts. Deputy Meides is the recipient of two Commendation Awards and two Meritorious Service Awards and has received numerous letters of appreciation from the citizens he serves. Deputy Meides resides in the Town of Darien with his wife, Mary Beth, and their children. Deputy Meides was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

Police Officer Emily J. Clark, Village of Le Roy Police Department Police Officer Emily J. Clark has been a member of the Village of Le Roy Police Department for six years. She is currently assigned as a patrol officer and also works with the Local Law Enforcement Drug Task Force. Officer Clark is known for her positive attitude and has a determination to do the job right. She tries to make her work with the public a good experience and is always courteous and professional. Last year, Officer Clark assisted the Local Law Enforcement Drug Task Force for several months, which led to the arrests of several individuals for methamphetamine distribution within the county. Recently, she investigated a forged prescription case and worked with the Drug Task Force, which led to the arrest of an individual being charged with 100 felonies. Officer Clark also has a great rapport with the teenagers in the community, to a point where they feel comfortable in talking with her about police and non-police related matters. As a result of this rapport, she has developed many leads on open cases, but more importantly, she is a resource for some of the community’s more troubled young people. Officer Clark resides in the Village of Le Roy and was nominated for this award by her commanding officer, Police Chief Christopher Hayward.

Investigator Leo M. Hunter, New York State Police Investigator Leo M. Hunter is a 28-year veteran with the New York State Police. Investigator Hunter is currently assigned to the Bureau of Criminal Investigations and works out of the State Police Batavia Headquarters. His primary duties include the investigation of felony-level crimes, including crimes against children, sexual offenses, burglaries, assaults, etc. Investigator Hunter has been involved in thousands of investigations for the citizens of Genesee County. Investigator Hunter is a lifelong resident of Genesee County, has raised six children and currently resides in the City of Batavia. Investigator Hunter was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Major Christopher L. Cummings, Troop “A” Commander.

Kiwanis President Larry Friedman presented the awards on behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia.

CHARLES L. MANCUSO AWARD

The “Charles L. Mancuso Award” was presented to the members of the Batavia High School Mock Trial Team as winners of the 2011 GLOWS (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, Wyoming and Steuben 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 five years ago. The BHS team members honored at the dinner included: Will Ely, Chad Luce, Jenna Bauer, Evan Sutherland, Patrick Flynn, Maura Chmielowiec, Mckenzie Stevens, Zeke Lynn, Eva Reda-Kendrick, Nate Kabel, Matt Gabrielle, Taylor Sanders, Kaitlin Logsdon, Kaitlynn Walker and Trey Abdella. The team, coached by Social Studies Teacher Brandon Ricci and Attorney William Tedford, has competed in, and won, the local tournament for each of the past nine years.

Genesee County District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, who serves as president of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia and coordinator of the local Mock Trial Program, and Genesee County Bar Association President Durin Rogers presented the award.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION - 2011 NATIONAL SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION CHAPLAIN OF THE YEAR AWARD

A Special Recognition Award was presented to Pastor Philip A. Green who was selected by the National Sheriffs’ Association as its “2011 Chaplain of the Year." Pastor Green volunteers as Chaplain for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and makes himself available whenever needed. He assists officers when making death notifications to victims’ families and during other traumatic events. Each year he sponsors and organizes “Red and Blue Sunday” at his church, whereby he and his congregation recognize and express their appreciation to first responders and elected officials within the county. Pastor Green will be presented the “Chaplain of the Year” award by the National Sheriffs’ Association this June in St. Louis. Pastor Green is senior pastor for the First Baptist Church in Pavilion, NY, where he resides with his wife, Marun, and their three children.

The Special Recognition Award was presented by Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

KATHY SEYMOUR VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD

The Genesee Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (GCASA) presented its Kathy Seymour Volunteer Service Award during the dinner. This award is presented to a citizen, volunteer, law enforcement officer or emergency medical service provider whose actions and commitment have helped to make our community a safer place. This year’s award was presented to Sarah Palermo. Sarah is a volunteer on the DWI Victim Impact Panel.

The award was presented by Laura Ricci, Prevention Educator/VIP Coordinator, GCASA.

Starting New Year's Day, if you see an emergency vehicle with lights flashing, proceed with caution.

Of course, that's always been true -- if you have any thought of your own safety or the safety of emergency personnel -- but now, failure to do so could lead to a hefty fine.

Sheriff Gary Maha issued a press release today drawing attention to a new law that makes it mandatory for drivers to move over to the traffic lane furthermost from a stopped emergency vehicle that has flashing lights.

On single-lane roads, drivers are required to slow down and provide plenty of distance when passing stopped emergency vehicles.

While not specifying the amount of the fine, Maha said it is substantial and drivers will also get points on their record.

The law, called the "Move Over Act," was passed by the state Legislature in response to a pair of fatal accidents involving law enforcement officers. 

One accident took the life of Trooper Robert Ambrose and the other of Onondaga County Sheriff's Deputy Glenn Searles. 

Ambrose was killed when his patrol unit was rear-ended on the Thruway in Yonkers. Upon impact, his car burst into flames. The driver who struck his car was drunk and traveling at 80 mph. 

Searles was killed while assisting a stranded motorist. Another driver lost control of his car, pinning Searles against his patrol vehicle.

Maha: "Every driver has a vested interest in cooperatively keeping county roads safe. The men and women of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office remain determined to impartially and respectfully enforce the law to protect life and property of all citizens."

Top Photo, from left: Miller, Camp, Dibble, Harmon.

Four local cops were honored Thursday night by the Genesee County Bar Association and the Batavia Kiwanis Club for their dedication and good work during the past year.

Recognized in the annual awards ceremony at Bohn's Restaurant were:

• Officer Eric Miller, Village of Le Roy Police Department;
• Patrolman Christopher Camp, the Batavia Police Department;
• Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble, Genesee County Sherriff's Office;
• Sgt. Cory Harmon, New York State Police.

Also honored during the annual Law Day celebration was Daniel A. Rybak, who was named Attorney of the Year.

The mock trial team of Batavia High School received the Charles L. Mancuso Award. The team won the 2010 GLOW region Mock Trial Tournament.

William J. Hochul Jr., United States Attorney for the Western District of New York, served as the keynote speaker. 

The WNY native was promoted to his current post about a month ago. Previously, he served as a counter-terrorism attorney for the U.S. Attorney's Office. Hochul spoke about the role that all members of the legal community -- law enforcement, prosecutors and defense attorneys -- play in helping the United States fight terrorism, especially within our borders.

"Each of us in this room – men, women, children, high school students -- have a critical role to ensure that the American legal system remains as a tool to us to fight terrorism," Hochul said.

Hochul said local law enforcement plays is the first-line of defense against domestic terrorism.

"The federal government can’t be everywhere domestic terrorists might be living," Hochul said. "Nationwide, worldwide, really, there’s only 10,000 or so FBI agents."

Without local law enforcement, he said, "we wouldn’t be able to even see the domestic terrorism threat, much less address it.”

Because maintaining the rule of law is vital to keeping our justice system working, Hochul said, defense attorneys who challenge prosecutions' theories and assertions help keep the necessary balance to the system.

"My message to you all is let’s follow the rule of law," Hochul said. "Let’s use the system we have, and where appropriate, my office, the Western New York Office of United States Attorney, stands ready to help."

Inset, Hochul. Above, members of the Batavia High mock trial team.

After the jump are pictures and information on each of the award winners:

Photo: Chief Randy Baker and Officer Camp.

Patrolman Christopher Camp, City of Batavia Police Department
Patrolman Christopher Camp has been a member of the City of Batavia Police Department for four years. He is a 2002 graduate of Attica High School and attended Genesee Community College.

Officer Camp is assigned to road patrol and is a member of the Emergency Response Team. He is a certified scuba diver and has received training in CPR and First Aid. Officer Camp also serves as a Field Training Officer and has volunteered to serve as an honor guard member. During this past year, Officer Camp has demonstrated his professionalism, dedication and service to the community with regard to several incidents he has handled.

During May 2009, Officer Camp, along with other officers, was successful in taking into custody, without injury, an individual who was displaying mental issues who drove a large piece of agricultural equipment into the City of Batavia and damaged several vehicles.

During August 2009, Officer Camp and another officer were able to take into custody a woman who had threatened suicide and cut her wrists with a large knife, and during November 2009, Officer Camp was confronted and attacked by a distraught individual who was subsequently taken into custody without serious injury.

During February 2010, Officer Camp responded to the scene of a house fire and at great risk to his own personal safety attempted to enter the house to save a citizen.

Officer Camp has assisted with coaching the Batavia Youth Soccer team and resides with his family in Attica, New York. He was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Chief Randy Baker.

Photo: Sheriff Gary Maha with Dibble

Chief Deputy Gordon L. Dibble, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
Chief Deputy Gordon L. Dibble is a 35-year veteran of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Chief Dibble oversees the operations of the Road Patrol Division of the Sheriff’s Office and is a member of the Sheriff’s Administration staff.

Chief Dibble is a lifelong resident of Genesee County and a graduate of Pembroke High School. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Corrections from Aurora College in Illinois in 1974.

He joined the Sheriff’s Office in 1975 and was assigned to Corrections. In 1977, he was transferred to the Criminal Division and worked as a road patrol officer until 1980, when he was appointed a Youth Officer. He became the agency’s first certified D.A.R.E instructor and gained the trust and respect of school administrators, students and educators.

As Youth Officer, Chief Dibble instituted several youth-safety programs including the use of a small robot car named “Shadow," which was purchased by the Kiwanis Club of Batavia in 1989. Chief Dibble spends an enormous amount of time helping employees and citizens of Genesee County in his day-to-day duties as supervisor of the Road Patrol Division.

He is a professional, dedicated officer who is committed to the law enforcement profession and is willing to assist whenever and wherever needed. Chief Dibble oversees traffic details during the concert season at Darien Lake and has worked tirelessly with Darien Lake officials and other stakeholders to improve traffic safety in that area.

Chief Dibble is the recipient of two Commendations, three Meritorious Service Awards and was named Officer of the Year in 1984. He has been recognized by the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers for his efforts in combating DWI and in 2009, was awarded the New York State Sheriffs’ Association’s Carl Draxler Award for Meritorious Service. Chief Dibble and his wife, Peggy, reside in the Town of Pembroke and have three boys: Eric - age 29, Russell - age 24 and Jeffrey - age 19. Chief Dibble was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

Photo: Le Roy Chief Chris Hayward with Miller.

Police Officer Eric H. Miller, Village of LeRoy Police Department Police
Officer Eric H. Miller is a 14-year veteran with the Village of LeRoy Police Department. For the past seven years, Officer Miller has been serving as a School Resource Officer for the LeRoy School District.

Officer Miller has built relationships and trusts to make the school district a safe and comfortable atmosphere for the children of the district and has always been at ease with school-age children and the respect they have for him is evident in his day-to-day contact with them.

High School Principal Joseph Englebert wrote: “Eric works very closely with the youth in our community as a School Resource Officer. He works throughout the school district with administration to keep our students and staff safe. He develops relationships with students that assist the administration in being proactive when dealing with discipline issues, instead of being reactive.

He goes into the classroom to educate students on safety and legal issues and he is present at school events, adding an extra layer of security, so that community members can feel safe and enjoy themselves. He is a liaison to other law enforcement organizations and the LeRoy safety networks. His presence throughout the district makes a difference on a daily basis.”

Officer Miller was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Chief Christopher Hayward.

Photo: Major Christopher Cummings with Harmon.

Sergeant Corey S. Harmon, New York State Police
Sergeant Corey S. Harmon has been a member of the New York State Police for 11 years.

Sergeant Harmon is a Station Commander and supervises the State Police Batavia road patrols and is responsible for coordinating DWI, Aggressive Driving and Traffic Corridor details.

During this past year, Sergeant Harmon has distinguished himself in many ways. In June 2009, Sergeant Harmon was instrumental in the capture of three armed bank robbers stemming from the robbery of the M&T Bank in Elba, NY. His quick response allowed him to identify the suspect vehicle as it fled the scene, and his assistance in coordinating the large scale search detail resulted in the successful apprehension of the three suspects involved. His actions earned him a State Police Superintendent’s Letter of Commendation.

Additionally, Sergeant Harmon is credited with having supervised and motivated a number of State Police members, instilling in them the goals of promoting justice and goodwill to those they serve. His leadership led to a marked increase across all enforcement categories.

Sergeant Harmon’s exceptional ability to plan and schedule was also highlighted during this last year with regard to the Darien Lake Concert season. Traffic-related initiatives include DWI checkpoints and multi-agency Under Age Drinking details.

Sergeant Harmon oversaw the 2009 Genesee County Traffic Corridor, which targeted erratic operation occurring along State Route 63 in a quest to reduce motor vehicle accidents. In doing so, he managed both the resources and overtime associated with the 48 traffic details that were responsible for issuing 499 traffic tickets over a six-month period, creating a safer environment.

Sergeant Harmon was the 2009 Troop “A” Zone One recipient of the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Special Recognition Award. Sergeant Harmon resides in the Town of Wilson, Niagara County, with his wife, Allison, and their 1-year-old son, Max.

Sergeant Harmon was nominated for this award by his commanding officers, Major Christopher Cummings and Captain Craig Hanesworth.

CHARLES L. MANCUSO AWARD
During the dinner, the Genesee County Bar Association presented the fourth annual “Charles L. Mancuso Award” to Batavia High School, the 2010 winner of the GLOW (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming) District Competition in the New York State 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 four years ago. The BHS team members honored at the dinner included: Patrick Flynn, Tim Redband, Adi Marino, Kaitlyn Logsdon, McKenzie Stevens, Jenna Bauer, Maura Chmielowiec, Sahil Jain, C.J. Shultz, Will Ely, Kristen Klein, Chad Luce, and Evan Sutherland. The team, coached by Social Studies Teacher Tim Stevens, has competed in, and won, the local tournament for each of the past eight years.

2010 ATTORNEY OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Genesee County Bar Association presented their “2010 Attorney of the Year Award” to Daniel A. Rybak, a Batavia attorney.

Mr. Rybak graduated from Notre Dame as an undergraduate in 1967 and Notre Dame Law School in 1970. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in February 1971. Mr. Rybak was hired as an associate with Stakel, Suttell and Found, and a few years later he became a partner – Stakel, Suttell, Found and Rybak.

The practice is now Rybak, Metzler and Grasso. Mr. Rybak has been very involved in the community including serving as past president of the board for the Batavia Area YMCA; past board member of the St. Jerome Hospital Foundation; Notre Dame high school board of trustees; member of the Peace and Justice Commission of the Diocese of Buffalo; member of the Genesee County Bar Association Grievance Committee; member of the Grievance Committee, 4th Department, 8th Judicial District; and member for several years of the House of Delegates of the New York State Bar Association, representing attorneys from all of New York State.

Mr. Rybak is a native of Perry and now resides with his wife, Lorraine, in the City of Batavia.

Additional pictures from the evening below:

Last photo: Camp with Lt. Henning.