Sheriff's Office

Genesee County sheriff candidate David Krzemien on Monday night said that an internal investigation by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Police Department, his former employer, revealed that he was not part of a double-dipping scheme brought to light by an Office of the New York State Comptroller audit in 2010.

“I was never charged by the Comptroller’s office or anything like that. This is an investigation that is done by the NFTA. They found no findings of me getting paid from two sources,” Krzemien said by telephone in response to a request by The Batavian for comment about the report dated Sept. 27, 2010.

The audit issued by the comptroller’s office Division of State Government Accountability indicated that Krzemien and 10 other NFTA officers, over a three-year period, “abandoned their assigned duty posts to go to work at other jobs while being paid by the Authority.”

The 10-year-old report was provided to The Batavian by multiple people who are supporters of Sheriff William Sheron, Krezmien's opponent in the November election.

According to the report, this practice of falsifying time sheets to show employees on the clock at two different jobs was condoned for years by NFTA senior level police officers, who also “participated in cheating the public out of a full-day’s work.”

Signed in at Two, But Paid for One

The comptroller’s audit stated that the NFTA, in July 2009, conducted an internal investigation into the allegations, with Patrick Dalton, director of internal audit, finding that Krzemien “was signed in at the Transportation Authority and the Village of Blasdell Police Department at the same time. Despite this finding, the police officer was not disciplined.”

Krzemien, however, who worked part time for the Village of Blasdell Police Department while employed by the NFTA, maintains that he did not double-dip – and points to a letter from the NFTA to the comptroller’s office in reply to the audit to support him.

The letter, signed by NFTA Acting Chairman Henry Sloma, refers to page 10, paragraph 5 of the audit report, specifically that “Mr. Dalton did determine that Officer Krzemien was signed in at both the NFTA and the Village of Blasdell. However, he did not get paid for any time concurrent with the time worked at the NFTA and therefore is not subject to any disciplinary actions as he did not violate the union contract.”

Krzemien, who retired from the NFTA Police Department in 2018 after a 20-year career, said an overlap of shifts occurred because he was working overtime for the NFTA.

“I couldn’t change the schedule hours with Blasdell, so the guy who was working the shift before me covered for me, and (he) got paid for those hours,” Krzemien said. “So, according to the Comptroller, I was not double dipping. I was never disciplined from any of it.”

Comptroller: It Went on For Years

Per the state report, an anonymous letter prompted the investigation into double-dipping, and led to the comptroller’s office to conclude the following:

This double dipping was allowed to occur for several years because senior level police officers condoned and participated in this fraudulent activity. As a result, the citizens of Erie and Niagara counties did not have the police coverage that was planned and paid for.

We urge Transportation Authority officials to change the culture in the police department. Transportation Authority officials should also properly monitor to ensure officers are working their shifts and in the locations they are assigned.

We provided our findings to the Office of the State Comptroller’s Division of Investigations for referral to law enforcement for possible criminal prosecution.

Click here to view the report.

Krzemien said the investigation stemmed from some school resource officers working a football game at Bennett High School.

Krzemien: SROs at the Turkey Bowl

“A bunch of our SROs who work for the NFTA Police Department on Thanksgiving Day what they did was – they were working for the NFTA, now I was not part of the school resource officers, OK. We’ll make that clear,” he said.

“So, our SROs worked a football game for Bennett High School – they had a thing they called the Turkey Bowl. They were working for the NFTA and they were also collecting money from the Turkey Bowl, from the school. So, they got caught double-dipping.”

He said that prompted the NFTA to go “through everybody’s second front employment status, and they came across my paperwork. I was working for the Village of Blasdell.”

Krzemien said the NFTA started its inquiry, but he wasn’t part of the original findings of the comptroller’s office.

“It was those guys who were working that school,” he said. “But because the NFTA had gotten the complaint, they went into everybody’s second front employment status. And when they got the records from Blasdell, they investigated further because I was forced to work overtime with the NFTA (and) it overlapped my shift in Blasdell.

Someone Else Worked Those Hours

“When I left (my shift at) the NFTA, I did go to Blasdell and worked my second job but I never got paid for that. So, in turn, that’s not double-dipping.  Someone else got paid for those hours, not me, because I wasn’t working.”

Krzemien said the SROs who were involved in the double dipping from the high school football game were “suspended for, I think, 30 days without pay – but that was not me. John Herritage, I know, was one of them. He was a lieutenant that was actually running it with Mike Difranco, who was another lieutenant that was running it.”

The audit reported that, in 2008, Krzemien earned $51,437 in base salary and $19,493 in overtime – ranking 50^th in the police department that year in overtime.

While double-dipping in connection with the NFTA investigation is illegal, it is not against the law for public officials to receive a pension and collect full salary for a job being performed after retirement.

Such is the case with Sheron who retired on Dec. 31, 2016 and is collecting a NYS Employees Retirement System annual pension of $60,326 as well as his current salary of $105,518.

Separate Case: Judge Dismisses Charges

In an unrelated legal proceeding brought to the attention of The Batavian by a reader, a felony charge of Assault on a Police Officer against James Patterson stemming from an Aug. 27, 2007 incident involving Krzemien was dismissed nearly a year later by Erie County Acting Supreme Court Justice M. William Boller (People v Patterson 2008 NY).

According to testimony of Krzemien and Officer Michelle Pettys at a May 2008 hearing, they responded to a call of passengers drinking on a Metro rail train at the Amherst Street Station, a petty offense in violation of a Buffalo city ordinance.

The defendant was heading up the stairs to leave the station when asked to stop by Krzemien. Patterson did not stop and muttered a vulgarity, prompting Krzemien to grab his shirt and arm. A struggle ensued and the defendant eventually subdued and handcuffed to the railing. While handcuffed, Patterson kicked Krzemien in the shoulder area.

The judge ruled that Krzemien did not perform a “lawful duty” when he used force to keep Patterson from exiting the station in light of testimony that neither officer intended to arrest the defendant. Citing precedent, the judge ruled the defendant did not have to stop or respond to Krzemien and that the “detention of the defendant was not in the performance of a lawful duty.”

Krzemien: Misdemeanor Charge was There

To this day, Krzemien believes that he had sufficient cause to detain Patterson because of his intention to file a theft of service charge – a misdemeanor – for failure to provide proof of purchasing a ticket to the rail train.

“There were additional charges put on him because what happened was we got a call one morning – and I’ll give you the whole scenario that took place,” he said. “We got a call one morning of intoxicated people being disorderly on a train. We responded to the call and we went down there and we did come across unruly, intoxicated people on the train. There were bottles of champagne. They had glasses and the champagne in their hands.”

Krzemien said officers asked two people for proof of payment.

“Anywhere, and it’s posted throughout the stations, anywhere past a certain part of the station you have to have proof of payment when you ride it – it’s a theft of service, which is misdemeanor charge,” he said. “Two of them couldn’t produce it and Patterson started walking away. So, they started to walk away – what it stated in regards to that was I didn’t have a right to stop him. I did have a right to stop him on the misdemeanor charge.”

That’s when things turned for the worse, resulting in injury to Krzemien.

“When I confronted Mr. Patterson, he turned, violently, and he aggressively came at me. I have two herniated disks in my neck. He tried to throw me over the railing. We had to cuff him to the railing to get him into custody,” he said. “So, as I am walking away from him, he roundhouse kicks me to the face. That’s when I got the two herniated disks in my neck.”

Injuries Result in Hospitalization

Krzemien said he was standing on the platform between two levels of the train station and fell back about four steps before regrouping and taking Patterson into custody. He said he had to go to the hospital and was unable to complete the arrest.

“So, one of the officers that responded there took the arrest – John Politowski – (and) helped complete the report,” he said. “When he filed, he never filed the charges on the theft of service. That’s where the charges were dismissed, because I didn’t have the right.”

Krzemien referred to the case law cited by the judge, stating that an officer doesn’t have the right to detain or restrain someone unless the criminal charges are at the misdemeanor or felony level.

“I had a misdemeanor charge because he couldn’t prove proper proof of payment which is theft of service – he didn’t have a ticket to ride the train. In Buffalo, it’s an honor system. They don’t have, like turnstiles in New York City,” he said. “So, when we asked for proof of payment, they have to produce proof of payment. I have a right to pursue to question on the misdemeanor.”

When it was mentioned to him that the judge’s ruling doesn’t mention a lack of payment or a misdemeanor charge, Krzemien said that subsequently the charges were refiled, not on the felony assault charge but as assault, third degree.

Charges Refiled in Buffalo Court

“They were actually refiled in (Buffalo) City Court on an assault  third charge,” he said. “He (Patterson) was later picked up on a warrant – I think it was in Pennsylvania, I’m not sure, but I remember our detectives went to pick him up. He was arraigned on other charges. The charges were re-upped; that’s the part that wasn’t in there because we couldn’t go against the judge’s appeal. They said you’ll never win it.

“So, what we’ll do is go to assault third. I said that I have two herniated disks in my neck, we’re going to go with assault third? It’s the only way we’re going to be able to win the case, because they’ll never overrule a judge’s decision on the felony assault on a police officer.”

Krzemien said that the charges were refiled and “after they picked him up they gave him time served because he sat in jail.”

He said the original charges were dismissed because he was in the hospital and was unable to place the misdemeanor charge on Patterson. When it went to the felony hearing, the charges were dismissed.

“I think it (dismissal) was wrong, absolutely, I think it was wrong. The misdemeanor charge was there,” he said. “I’m not going to sit here and lie, I’m telling you the truth.”

NFTA Officer of the Year in 2013

Krzemien, 51, said he continues to suffer from the injury sustained in the altercation, and feels this scrutiny is unfair.

“I have probably close to 600, 700 arrests in combination assisting other guys in the city. And this is what I’m facing now. If you want to run with it go ahead. I’ll get the other information to prove it all wrong. But, I’m not here lying. I called you back,” he said.

Krzemien retired from the NFTA in 1998 after 20 years of employment, leading the Counter Terrorism Unit for seven years and as serving on the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Union for seven years, including three as president. He was named NFTA Police Officer of the Year in 2013.

He also worked part time for the Village of Blasdell Police Department, as a field training officer, court officer and detective for 14 years.

Currently, he is a part-time police officer for the Corfu Police Department and a seasonal deputy with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department. He also is the Town of Darien deputy supervisor.

Press release:

Dear Sheriff Sheron:

As past and future Presidents of the FBI National Academy Associates, New York State & Eastern Canada Chapter, it is both a privilege and an honor for us to officially endorse you for re-election as Sheriff of Genesee County, NY.

The FBI National Academy is considered to be the most prestigious and premier law enforcement training in the world, with less than 1 percent of police officers being selected to attend. The 10-week program is held at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Va., for law enforcement executives to enhance their credentials, standards, knowledge, and networking cooperation worldwide.

You were selected to attend Session 196 of the FBI National Academy; and since your graduation, you have remained active in the Association on both the New York State/Eastern Canada Chapter and National levels, assisting in providing training conferences for law enforcement officials. Because of your dedication to police professionalism, you were selected to the Chapter's Executive Board, and ascended to Chapter President. Under your leadership, our Chapter was selected to host the first ever FBI National Academy Associates' National Conference outside the United States in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. In 2012, you were unanimously selected as the Chapter's Secretary/Treasurer, where you served for the maximum number of eight years until 2020.

As a law enforcement leader, you exemplify the motto of the FBI National Academy, "Knowledge, Courage, & Integrity." It is for that impeccable leadership, and the accomplishments stated above, that we endorse you for re-election as Sheriff of Genesee County, NY, in 2020.

Fraternally,
Scott Fraser Chief of Police
Brockville Police Service Chapter Vice - President 2020

Mark R. Gates
Deputy Chief of Police
New York State University Police, Buffalo Past President 2015

Photo: Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron Jr., left, and Village of Le Roy Chief of Police Christopher Hayward.

Submitted photo and letter.

A letter from Village of Le Roy Chief of Police to residents of Genesee County:

As a 36-year veteran of the Le Roy Police Department, I know what experience it takes to serve as an agency executive. I am writing this letter in support of just such a man -- an individual who I have known for over 30 years and have the utmost respect for his service to the citizens of Genesee County.

Bill Sheron has served his community with honor and has proven his leadership time and again during his tenure with the Sheriff's Office. He has risen through the ranks during his career through his knowlege and experience; and I know if he is re-elected, he will continue to promote the best values and professionalism of the Sheriff's Office.

Bill is a strong advocate for school safety and maintaining our Constitutional rights, including the right to bear arms. During these unprecedented times for law enforcement, it is vital to have experienced and proven leadership; and I am honored to stand by Bill Sheron and urge the citizens of Genesee County to support him and re-elect him as your Sheriff.

Respectfully,

Christopher K. Hayward

Chief of Police

Village of Le Roy Police Department

Press release:

The New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association has announced its endorsement of David Krzemien, who is running for Genesee County Sheriff.

It represents more than 6,000 active and retired, uniformed members of the New York State Police from the rank of Trooper through the rank of Major. This includes the New York State Troopers from Troop A, SP Batavia and Troop T who work in and through Genesee County.

Having the support of the New York State Troopers PBA shows that networking with outside agencies plays a vital role in keeping our citizens and law enforcement officers safe.

As indicated in the endorsement: “The challenges facing members of the law enforcement community are greater than ever before, and we need individuals like David Krzemien in leadership positions to help law enforcement officers better serve the residents of New York State.”

Krzemien’s passion and drive to always do what is right will allow the people of Genesee County to trust the Sheriff’s Office and to work together to help prevent and solve crimes.

Leaving the Sheriff's Office after 20 years and six months of service is bittersweet, said K-9 Officer Chris Erion as he finished out his final shift before retiring yesterday.

He not only leaves behind a job he said matured him, he leaves behind his partner "Frankie," who will be paired with a new partner in the coming weeks.

"I've had a lot of great experiences. I've met a lot of wonderful people," Erion said. "I've seen a side of humanity, both good and bad, that I never would have seen had I not worked this job and been through experiences that have matured me. It's overwhelming to think of everything and trying to take it all in and think back over 20 years."

Erion joined the Sheriff's Office in March 2000.

He hasn't decided yet what comes next.

"I'm going to take a week or two and I'm going to kind of decompress and try to get the weight of the profession off of my heart and off my shoulders a little bit and reconnect with my family," Erion said. "They've been tremendous in just keeping things together over the years and the stresses that you go through. And they've earned it, too. It's not my retirement. It's something that they've earned as well."

Erion has four children, all under the age of 16.

Being a K-9 officer is a tough job on anyone, especially a family man.

"You have to be available," Erion said. "When that phone rings at two, three, or four in the morning, you have to be ready to go and go quickly. That takes a toll on everybody at home as well. I'm not getting any younger and you strap yourself to a 70-pound animal and go off into the darkness to wherever they take you. So it is a very physical job and it wears on you, but it's been very rewarding."

He's retiring at the age of 45. He looks back at himself as a 24-year-old rookie as somebody really didn't know much about life when he started.

"I was 24 and I was just a kid," Erion said. "I'm looking back now and I wasn't even an adult when I started. This job grows you up quickly."

His advice to young officers today: Do things right and do them the right way.

"Check your ego, because that will get you in trouble faster than anything else," Erion said. "Listen to the people around you that have been through the experiences that you're trying to learn. Take their advice. That's the easiest way to learn."

The tough job has been made a lot easier by the support of the people in the community, Erion said. He praised community members for the way they stand behind local law enforcement.

"I love this community," he said. "They back us and we know it and we try to be worthy of it."

Photo by Alecia Kaus/Video News Service. Article based on a recorded interview by Alecia Kaus.

Previously:

 

Press release:

Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. has secured $27,000 from the NYS Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office to participate in the statewide Police Traffic Services Program from Oct. 1 through Sept. 30. 

“The goal of this program is to increase seat belt compliance and reduce dangerous driving behaviors in an effort to reduce serious injury and death from traffic crashes," Sheriff Sheron said.

Vehicle occupants that do not use seat belts or child safety seats are four times more likely to require hospitalization, three times more likely to be diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury, and twice as likely to be diagnosed with a serious injury.

Press release from David Krzemien:

It's Official: "Pro 2nd Amendment' is now a line (another choice for people to vote) on the November 3rd Ballot.

On Election Day you will see David Krzemien’s name on two lines on the ballot. We have officially gotten our second line “Pro 2nd Amendment.” This second line means so much to David as he’s said from the beginning of his campaign, if we can’t protect our families then we are left with nothing. Every law-abiding citizen should be able to exercise the right to keep and bear arms without intervention or monitoring by the government. This fundamental right, provided to us by the 2nd Amendment should not be diminished or altered by the State government.

I would like to thank all the people who carried petitions to give the people of Genesee County a choice.

On November 3, 2020, make sure you vote David Krzemien for Genesee County Sheriff!

County legislators dealt with two law enforcement-related contracts at Monday's Public Service Committee meeting that, as one member put it, are "mysteries" because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

It is unknown whether there will be on-campus learning at county schools this fall, but the Sheriff's Office is expected to provide School Resources Officers to six campuses if students return to classrooms, so that contract needs to be in place.

Right now, it doesn't look like Live Nation will host any concerts at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center but in case they do, the contract for the Sheriff's Office needs to be in place.

The committee recommended both contracts be approved.

For SROs, three school districts -- Alexander, Byron-Bergen, and Pavilion -- employ deputies year-round and reimburse the county for that expense. Those SROs remain employed by their respective districts.

Pembroke, Oakfield-Alabama, and BOCES use SROs for only 10 months during the year, so the Sheriff's Office gets reimbursed for those deputies' salaries for only those 10 months.

The year-around school districts have continued to use their SROs even during the lockdown, even during the summer, but it's uncertain what will happen with the partial-year SROs if students don't return to campus in the fall.

Currently, the Sheriff's Office has three open road patrol positions. Rather than hire and train new officers, the three deputies who are SROs in Pembroke, O-A, and BOCES are fulfilling those duties, so the cost to the county of not getting those salaries covered by the school districts is a wash.

As for Darien Lake, there's no expense to the county if there are no concerts and Live Nation pays for any deputies put on duty at concerts.

However, discussion of the concert season had legislators asking about the impact that closure of Darien Lake -- the theme park, concert venue, and hotel -- would have on county revenue. The county derives significant revenue from sales tax at the theme park as well as gas tax for people who travel into Genesee County for the park and subsequently buy gas here. The bed tax from the hotel is about a third of the bed tax revenue for the county, said County Manager Jay Gsell.

Chairwoman Rochelle Stein told the committee that based on her communication with industry and state officials, Darien Lake is part of an amusement park lobbying group trying to get the governor's office to authorize theme parks to reopen.

She said Darien Lake has drafted a thick binder of guidelines the park would follow if it reopened.

"They've put their safety plan in front of the governor's office," Stein said. "There is a whole lobbying arm of the amusement park industry that as a group is trying to convince the governor to let them reopen. So far, that has fallen on deaf ears."

Photo: The socially distanced Public Service Committee meeting.

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous complaints regarding the unlawful operation of ATVs and dirt bikes throughout the county.

In particular, there have been complaints of groups of ATVs operating on roads and on old railroad rights of way.

This is a reminder that it is unlawful to operate an ATV, UTV or side by side on a highway, public lands (unless designated for ATV use), or lands of another person without permission.

All ATVs (dirt bikes are considered an ATV) must be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles if they are operated anywhere in NY State, including on the owner’s property.

They must also be insured except when being ridden on your own property.

A USDOT-approved helmet must be worn whenever operating an ATV or riding as a passenger.

There are several other laws and restrictions, including information for junior operators.

These and more information can be found here.

Press release:

The Committee to Elect David Krzemien for Genesee County Sheriff would like to wish everyone a Happy Memorial Day!

The last Monday in May has been deemed Memorial Day dating as far back as 1868. This day is set aside to remember and honor those military members who lost their lives serving our country. In today’s world with increased restrictions on our freedom, the ultimate sacrifice that so many made means so much more.

Men and women sacrificed their comfort, and ultimately their lives to protect and defend the rights and liberty we have in America today. It is our job to teach younger generations about the brave men and women who never made it home after defending our country.

The sacrifice made by those military men and women should be remembered and celebrated today and every day. God Bless America, we are strong and will make it through this together!

Pictures included were taken at the Our Lady of Good Counsel Cemetery. Special thanks to David Krzemien, Michelle Krzemien, Christopher Parker, Cooper Parker, Lonnie Nati, Julia Pettys, Trevor Krzemien and Emily Burow for taking the time to place flags on the graves of service members.

Above, Village of Corfu Police Department Officer Scott Johnston.

Photos and press release from the Office of the Sheriff, Genesee County:

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

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

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic these events have been cancelled this year.

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

The Genesee County Legislature will be issuing a proclamation at its Wednesday night meeting recognizing May 10 – 16, 2020, as National Police Week. The lights on the Old County Courthouse cupola will be changed to blue to acknowledge this week.

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

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

Above, Village of Le Roy Police Department, from left: Officer Adriano Medici, Detective John Condidorio, Officer Zachary Klafehn, Officer Chris Ford, Sergeant Greg Kellogg, Officer Curt Miller, Officer Steve Cappotelli, Officer Connor Denz.

Above, Genesee County Sheriff's Office, from left: Sergeant Michael J. Lute, Deputy Rachel M. Diehl, Investigator Joseph D. Loftus, Deputy Robert C. Henning, Deputy Travis M. DeMuth.

Above, City of Batavia Police Department, from left: Officer Austin Hedges, Officer Felicia DeGroot, Officer Josh Girvin, Officer Nicole McGinnis, Officer Sam Freeman.

Above, from left: Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr., C.O. Michael A. Cox, C.O. Adam C. Snow, Senior C.O. James M. Smart, Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel, C.O. Trevor J. Sherwood, C.O. Christopher L. Seelbinder, C.O. Lewis A. Henning, C.O. Anthony J. Ridder, Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur.

Submitted photos and press release:

On May 5, 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first full week of May would be observed as National Correctional Officers’ Week in recognition of the important role these officers play in our criminal justice system.

The position of Correctional Officer, once considered merely that of a “guard,” has become increasingly more complex and demanding, involving simultaneously custodial, supervisory, rehabilitation, and counseling roles, and that complexity continues to grow.

In the year 2020, Correctional Officers continue to play that vital role, but in an ever more stressful environment due to the current pandemic sweeping our nation and the world.

This week acknowledges the difficult job Correction Officers perform, locked within a facility for a large part of their day where they must securely, safely and humanely keep those committed to the jail, respecting the rights and dignity of all the inmates, including those who have been found guilty and those only awaiting adjudication.

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr., along with the Genesee County Legislature, recognize these public safety professionals for their continued dedication, professionalism and commitment to public service.

The Genesee County Legislature issued a proclamation at its April 22 meeting recognizing May 3 – 9, 2020, as National Correctional Officers’ Week. The lights on the Old County Courthouse cupola will be changed to red, white and blue to acknowledge this week.

“The important and difficult role Correctional Officers fulfill is not always recognized by the general public,” Sheriff Sheron said. “If you know a Correctional Officer, please join me in thanking these men and women for their exceptional service.”

Above, in the forefront: C.O. Philip A. Mangefrida; back row, from left: Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr., Senior C.O. Peter M. Hoy, C.O. Austin J. Davis, C.O. Kelly P. Creegan, C.O. Michael F. Lindsley, C.O. Daniel J. Renz, C.O. Brian M. Manley, C.O. Cody D. NiCastro, Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur.

Above, in the forefront, Jail Superintendent William A. Zipfel. Second row, from left: Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr., C.O. Jason M. Buck, C.O. Marissa R. Jacques, C.O. Dennis J. Bartholomew, C.O. Tyler J. Stewart, C.O. Matthew M. Luce, C.O. John P. Garlock, C.O. Jared T. Swimline, C.O. Jenna R. Barber, C.O. Kevin P. Thomas. Back row, from left: C.O. Seth C. Rademacker, Senior C.O. Jason R. Queal, C.O. Michael A. Strumpf, C.O. Susan A. Mattice, Senior C.O. Caleb C. Chaya, C.O. Tyler M. Tambe, Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur, Senior C.O. Matthew R. Burgett.

Press release:

Consistent with precautions that are being initiated throughout the country to combat the spread of the coronavirus, Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. is requesting the public’s assistance in limiting walk-in traffic to the Sheriff’s Office located at 165 Park Road, Batavia.

Records Division: please direct all requests for copies of reports, including accident reports, and background checks by phone (585-345-3000, ext. 3560),

fax (585-345-3089), email (Sheriff.Civil@co.genesee.ny.us) or online at https://co.genesee.ny.us/departments/sheriff/records.php

Your request will be responded to in an electronic format or by U.S. Mail.  

Civil Division: please direct questions regarding payments, service of process, evictions and judgement payments by phone (585-345-3000, ext. 3565), fax (585-345-3089), or e-mail (sheriff.civil@co.genesee.ny.us). Civil payments can be made online at https://co.genesee.ny.us/departments/sheriff/civil.php

Animal Shelter: all business (including animal adoptions and turn-ins) will be conducted by appointment only. Please call 585-343-6410.

Deputies and Investigators: in order to practice social distancing, where appropriate, complaints will be handled via phone (585-345-3000) or by electronic means. When responding to a resident’s home for a complaint, if possible, we are asking that conversations be conducted outside your home rather than inside.

As always, please dial 9-1-1 when you are in need of emergency assistance.

Genesee County Jail: visitation continues to be suspended until further notice.  

The public’s cooperation is greatly appreciated as we all work through this pandemic situation.

David Krzemien is running against incumbent William Sheron for Genesee County Sheriff. He held a campaign kickoff on Saturday at Batavia Country Club. Here is a short, introductory video.

Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. is pleased to announce that K9 Frankie has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and private citizen donors. The vest was embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of GS-29”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c(3) charity located in East Taunton, MA whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. The non-profit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four-legged K9 officers. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provided over 3,500 U.S. made, custom fitted, NIJ-certified protective vests in 50 states, through private and corporate donations, at a value of $6.9 million dollars.

The program is open to dogs actively employed in the U.S. with law enforcement or related agencies who are certified and at least 20 months of age.New K9 graduates, as well as K9s with expired vests, are eligible to participate.

The donation to provide one protective vest for a law enforcement K9 is $950. Each vest has a value between $1,744 – $2,283, and a five-year warranty and an average weight of 4-5 lbs. There is an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States. For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts tax-deductible donations of any denomination atwww.vik9s.orgor mailed to P.O. Box 9 East Taunton, MA 02718.

Press release:

Corfu Police Officer and Darien Deputy Town Supervisor David Krzemien is announcing his candidacy for Genesee County Sheriff. Krzemien is seeking endorsement from all party lines.

He started his more than 20-year law enforcement career right here in Genesee County. He graduated from the Rural Police Training Academy housed at Genesee Community College.

This foundational training opened the doors to many opportunities in the field of law enforcement.

Since that time, he has served as a police officer and then detective for the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority, known as the NFTA, where he led the Counter Terrorism Unit for seven years.

He also worked part time for the Blasdell Police Department, as a field training officer, court officer and detective for 14 years.

Now retired from the NFTA, Krzemien serves as a part-time officer with the Village of Corfu Police Department and is a seasonal deputy with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. He also serves on the Darien Town Board as Deputy Town Supervisor.

Krzemien, his wife Michelle, and their five children have lived in Genesee collectively for more than 30 years.

In 30 years as an emergency dispatcher, Steve Robinson has probably handled every imaginable kind of call, first with the City of Batavia and later with the Sheriff's Office -- lost cats, petit larcenies, fires, train derailments, overdoses, homicides, and everything in between.

It's a tough job but on the night of his final shift, he said he is glad he chose the job he did as a young man.

"It's been an amazing career," Robinson said. "I've made a lot of friends -- with other dispatchers, judges, DAs, police officers, EMS, fire -- everybody involved in the whole process. I couldn't have asked for a better career for 30 years. It's not pretty sometimes. We deal with a lot of unpleasant stuff, but we get through it and I appreciate everybody I've worked with, and I've gotten a lot of help over the years."

To be a good dispatcher, Robinson said, you have to be able to multitask. You can find yourself dealing with a police officer on the radio about one call while taking an emergency call from an unrelated incident on 9-1-1. 

"There is a lot of activity in the room and you can't rely on somebody else to answer your phone for you," Robinson said.

And because you're sometimes dealing with people in duress, at the worse time of their lives, or who are angry, you have to have good people skills to be a good dispatcher. You have to be able to stay calm, talk people through their situations and ensure first responders are kept safe.

"The people I work with, not just the dispatchers, but the first responders, we have a bond because nobody else understands what we do," Robinson said. "In this job, unless you do it, you can't understand what we deal with and that is what bonds us."

In retirement, Robinson will still be around, and not far from the career he's loved. He will continue to work part time for Batavia PD as a desk clerk.

"I'll keep a hand in the business," Robinson said. "I'm not totally walking away."

Photos by Howard Owens. Information via Sheriff's Office press release.

Officer of the Year Award – Investigator Christopher A. Parker
Investigator Christopher A. Parker has distinguished himself in the performance of service to the citizens of Genesee County during 2019. Investigator Parker’s professional skill and devotion to duty are evident in his work practices. He is a 22-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office and continues to maintain an exemplary drive with regard to every aspect of police work. His commitment to public safety is apparent as he is credited with recent investigations leading to the removal of two illegal handguns from our community. The quality of Investigator Parker’s work was displayed this past year during a successful prosecution of a fatal hit-and-run motor vehicle accident in which he was the lead investigator. He dedicated countless hours to ensure justice which resulted in a vehicular manslaughter conviction. Investigator Parker undertakes investigations into complex financial crimes against the elderly, works as a fire investigator, and is an invaluable intelligence resource. Investigator Parker has fostered relationships with law enforcement personnel from countless agencies and works to gather and share intelligence concerning criminal activity.

Investigator Christopher A. Parker has reflected great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and most deserves to be named Officer of the Year.

Distinguished Service Award – Emergency Services Dispatcher Steven L. Robinson
Emergency Services Dispatcher Steven L. Robinson has distinguished himself as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Thirty years ago, Dispatcher Robinson began his lengthy career in emergency communications; and during this time, he has been the recipient of numerous awards for his professionalism and dedication. Dispatcher Robinson has spent many years as a trainer of new dispatchers and provided critical insight during the consolidation and creation of the Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center. Additionally, Dispatcher Robinson played an integral role in establishing quarterly workshops in which law enforcement officers and dispatchers meet face to face to discuss topics of mutual concerns. He often volunteered for extra assignments including maintaining records validation within the New York State Integrated Justice Portal.

Emergency Services Dispatcher Steven L. Robinson reflects great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Longevity Awards

• Correction Officer Andrew D. Hurley, 10 years
• Chief Deputy Joseph M. Graff, 15 years
• Emergency Services Dispatcher Stephen R. Smelski, 15 years
• Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur, 20 years
• Deputy Sheriff John P. Weis, 20 years
• Deputy Sheriff Nathan W. Balduf, 25 years
• Investigator R. Pete Welker, 25 years

Meritorious Awards

• Sr. Correction Officer Jason R. Queal, 1st

Commendations

• Principal Financial Clerk Deborah A. Shea, 1st
• Deputy Sheriff Richard S. Schildwaster, 1st
• Correction Officer Michael F. Lindsley, 1st
• Investigator Joseph D. Loftus, 2nd
• Correction Officer Andrew D. Hurley, 2nd
• Correction Officer Daniel J. Renz, 2nd
• Deputy Sheriff Ryan W. Young, 3rd
• Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Jason W. Holman, 3rd & 4th
• Youth Officer Howard J. Carlson, 4th
• Emergency Services Dispatcher Lynn B. Riccobono, 6th
• Sergeant Andrew B. Halem, 6th

Submitted photo and press release:

Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. announced Thursday that he will seek the Republican Party endorsement for a second term as Genesee County Sheriff.

Sheriff Sheron began his career with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office in 1977 as an Emergency Services Dispatcher. During his career, he has progressed through the ranks of Deputy Sheriff-Jail, Deputy Sheriff-Road Patrol, Sergeant, Investigator and Chief Deputy-Road Patrol. In January 1996, he was appointed Undersheriff, a position he held until being elected Sheriff in 2016.

During his first term, Sheriff Sheron collaborated with mental health officials to establish a “Crisis Intervention Team,” consisting of specially trained deputies to provide assistance to individuals, and family members, with the individual’s mental health needs. The benefits of this program are that individuals with mental health concerns receive appropriate treatment rather than incarceration into a jail cell.

Working with school officials and the Genesee County Legislature, Sheriff Sheron has also been able to assign a Resource Officer to all but one school within the County.

“This School Resource Officer program provides for a safe and secure environment for students and faculty while promoting positive relationships between the students and law enforcement officers,” Sheriff Sheron said.

Another highlight of the Sheriff’s first term is the creation of a “Sheriff’s Office Teen Academy” for high school students from throughout Genesee County. This academy provides students with an in-depth view of the training and duties of the Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement in general.

Sheriff Sheron is a lifelong resident of Batavia. He attended St. Mary’s Grade School, Notre Dame High School and is a graduate of Genesee Community College with a degree in Criminal Justice. He and his wife, Shari, are parents to a blended family of five children and six grandchildren.

“I am honored to serve as the Sheriff of Genesee County and pledge to continue my life’s work of protecting the safety and security of the residents of Genesee County and the men and women of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office,” Sheriff Sheron said.

New deputies above, from left: Jordan M. Alejandro, Kenneth A. Quackenbush III, Brock D. Cummins, Jared T. Swimline and Nicholas R. Chamoun.

Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. has filled several vacant deputy sheriff positions with the hiring of Kenneth A. Quackenbush III, Jared T. Swimline, Nicholas R. Chamoun, Jordan M. Alejandro and Brock D. Cummins.

All five Deputies recently completed their field training programs after graduating from the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy at Niagara University on Sept. 11.

Deputy Quackenbush was awarded "Top Gun" in his basic academy class. He is a 2004 Pavilion Central School regents graduate and was previously a correction officer at the Genesee County Jail, hired Nov. 26, 2016, before being appointed a deputy sheriff.

Deputy Swimline is a 2013 Pembroke Central School regents graduate. He attended Erie Community College and earned an Associate in Science degree in General Studies. Deputy Swimline was previously a correction officer at the Genesee County Jail, hired July 21, 2018, before being appointed a deputy sheriff.

Deputy Chamoun was awarded the Sgt. Jeff Juron Defensive Tactics Award and the Physical Fitness Award in his basic academy class. He is a 2012 graduate of Terra Nova High School in Pacifica, Calif. In 2013, Deputy Chamoun enlisted in the Marine Corps for four years and held the position of sergeant -- squad, and mortar section leader, and he was awarded several medals. He earned an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensics last year from Genesee Community College.

Deputy Alejandro is a 2004 Tonawanda Central School graduate. He attended Niagara County Community College where he earned an Associate in Arts degree in Humanities and Social Science. Deputy Alejandro was previously employed as an associate director of operations for ConServe.

Deputy Cummins is a 2002 graduate from Greenview Central School in Jamestown, Ohio, and enlisted in the Army right after high school. During the 11 years enlisted, Deputy Cummins was part of the “Old Guard,” the Army’s official ceremonial unit, escorting the president, and providing security for Washington, D.C. He held the position of platoon sergeant and squad leader and earned several medals while serving.

Sheriff Sheron said, “I am proud to have these exceptional individuals join the Road Patrol Division of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.”