City man faces arson charge after setting apartment on fire...
A Jamestown man has now been arrested for allegedly setting fire to his westside apartment intentionally late Tuesday morning.  City police late Tuesday announced the arrest of 35 year-old David Trout for second-degree arson after setting the fire in the ceiling of his apartment.  City fire officials say crews were called to the Parkview Apartments at 401 W. Fourth St. about 11:30 a.m.  Officials say an off-duty shift was also called in... and, firefighters had the blaze contained quickly.  They add that damage was confined to the "room and contents."  Police say Trout allegedly left the building shortly after setting the fire... and, he was apprehended a short distance away.  They say there were 25 other occupied apartments inside the building.  However... officials say no one was hurt.  In addition to the arson charge... Trout is also charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief... and, first-degree reckless endangerment.  He was jailed pending arraignment.  Fire officials add that crews were at the scene for about an hour-and-a-half. 

Man arrested after threatening arresting police with open knife...
A man sought on Jamestown City Court warrants has been arrested after allegedly menacing arresting police with a knife on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they and Chautauqua County Sheriff's officers were working a Gun-Involved Violence Enforcement Detail just after 6 p.m. Tuesday... and, spotted 59 year-old Darrin Pangborn in the area.  Officers say they tried to take Pangborn into custody when he grabbed an open pocket knife and raised it in an aggressive manner towards office.  Following a brief altercation... he was arrested for menacing a police officer... third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, resisting arrest.  Pangborn was jailed pending arraignment.

Hochul touts several financial and policy wins in state's tentative, $254-billion budget plan...
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is touting a number of financial and policy wins in the tentative 2025-26 budget agreement reached with the state legislature... adding "we got it all done."  Hochul made the announcement late Monday on the $254-billion spending plan... which is about $2-billion more than her original proposal... but, is lower than the $256-billion... and $259-billion dollar budgets proposed by the Senate and Assembly.  However... she said there are warning signs on the horizon with cuts already made in the federal government in Washington, D.C.  She adds that -- with the $1.3-billion in cuts so far -- lawmakers may have to come back and do more budget work after the regular session ends in early June.  Hochul says she's pleased that the spending plan includes all of the budget and policy priorities she had in her original proposal.  A big one is a middle income tax cut... which she says will bring rates to their lowest point in more than 70 years.  She adds there's also a tripling of the Child Tax Credit.  Hochul adds that her proposed inflation refund checks will be going out to 8.2-million New Yorkers... with $200 going to individuals... and, $400 for families.  Final details are still being worked out before budget bills are printed... and, lawmakers vote on them.

City Council approves $350,000 JLDC Loan to Monroe-&-More home improvement...
City lawmakers in Jamestown Monday night approved a $350,000, Jamestown Local Development Corporation loan for an expanding home improvement business in the city.  The City Council unanimously approved the loan for Monroe and More... operated by Dylan Monroe... to add three services -- including home demolitions.  That from City Council President Tony Dolce... who says more offerings of that kind are needed... because most demolition companies also do other jobs, and that makes it hard for them to sometimes demolish old, dilapitated, or burned-out homes.  Dolce says the loan also helps Monroe-and-More to get into the business of preparing demolition sites for rebuilding.  In additiion... Monroe... who is a Jamestown native... will use the funding for a project to add a spray foam insulation... a gutter machine... and, a dump truck to support the demolition business.

Fire extensively damages single-family home near Sinclairville...
Fire has extensively damaged a two-story, single family home just outside the village of Sinclairville.  County fire dispatchers say Sinclairville firefighters were called to the scene at 2781 Johnson Rd. in the town of Charlotte just before 8 p.m. Monday night.  They say thick smoke and some fire could be seen from long distances.  Sinclairville was joined at the scene by crews from Cassadaga, Gerry, and tankers from Ellington and Stockton.  Dispatch says the fire was knocked down in just over 45 minutes... and, the county's Fire Investigation Team was called in.  No cause has been determined... and, no injuries were reported.

The Jamestown-area under the gun for severe weather -- including high wind and hail -- this afternoon...
It appears there will be two waves of severe weather coming through Western New York... and, Chautauqua County... as we go through the day today.  There are no watches or warnings at this time... however... the National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center is continuing to say we are under an "enhanced severe weather risk."  Late this morning... Forecaster Liz Jurkowski in Buffalo said the initial wave of storm cells will move in early this afternoon between 1 and 2 p.m.  Jurkowski says the second wave, along with a cold front, will move in between 3 and 5 p.m... and, the severe weather should be out of the area by about 9 p.m.  o'clock tonight.  She says... with this severe weather...comes the likelyhood of heavy rain and damaging wind gust of up to 60 mph.  She adds there's also a lesser risk of damaging hail, and a tornado or two.  Jurkowski says the worst of the severe weather will be away from Lake Erie.  Temperatures had already reach the low 70s in parts of the Jamestown-area by mid-morning today... and, that will help spark the severe weather later.  Jurkowski says the first wave of severe weather will be in advance of an approaching cold front... and, that front will move into our area during the second wave late this afternoon.

City Council approves new, four-year contract agreement with police union...
The Jamestown City Council has unanimously approved a new, four-year contact agreement with the union representing the city's police officers.  Lawmakers voted last night, 7-0, to adopt the agreement with Councilmen Bill Reynolds, and Jeff Russell, abstaining from the vote because they're retired policemen.  City Council President Tony Dolce says he's pleased to see the mediated agreement in place... adding that lawmakers feel it's a "fair contract" that keeps the city within what other similar communities are paying to "keep us competitive."  Dolce says there are salary increases of between 2% and 4% for each year of the contract through the year 2028.  The Kendall Club-Police Benevolent Assocation ratified the new agreement earlier.  However... he agreed with both Reynolds and Russell that sooner... rather than later... consolidating departments with neighboring communities have to happen.  With the Kendall Club-PBA contract completed... Dolce says the Ecklund Administration can now focus on a new fire department, public works and other outstanding contracts that need to be put in place.
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City lawmakers last night also approved two resolutions... one for just over $27-million for a new, Board of Public Utilities Pump House Station... and, $1.65-million for upgrades in other areas.  The Council did reject a proposal to contract with a production company for a production of "Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid" for $30,000.  The vote was 3-6.

Woman from Falconer arrested for alleged DWI crash...
A Falconer woman escaped injury... but, faces an aggravated drunk driving charge following a one-car accident on Jamestown's eastside early Sunday morning.  City police say they were called to the scene in the area of Allen and Scioto Streets just after 2:30 a.m., and, found a street sign in the roadway, a damaged telephone pole and tire skid marks leading to a damaged vehicle stopped in the middle of the roadway.  Officers say they made contact with the driver... 43 year-old Carolyn Shields... who was in the driver'S seat.  During their investigation... police found that Shields had been driving while under the influence.  She was taken into custody for Aggravated DWI... because her blood alcohol content was about three-times the legal limit.  She also faces a second DWI charge... and was issued appearance tickets for city court.

County's Office for Aging Services urges local senior to write to federal and state leaders about importance of senior programs in the county...
There are a number of changes being made... and, or being contemplated by federal and state lawmakers for senior programming in the future.  With that... it's important for Chautauqua County's nearly 40,000 seniors to make their voices heard on what's important to them.  That from County Office for Aging Services Director Dana Corwin, who is working to mobilize the county's seniors to call or contact their local representatives... and, if you don't know how to do that, she says contact their office... or call the NY Connects number at (716) 753-4582.  Corwin says it's important to let lawmakers know the importance of programs like Chautauqua Adult Day Care, Meals on Wheels, and others.  She adds that a lot of those programs... thanks to state and federal funding... are free to qualified seniors in the county.  She says key lawmakers are U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand... Congressman Nick Langworthy... and, State Senator George Borrello, and State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor.  Corwin made her comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

NWS warns of "Severe Weather Risk" for Western New York -- including Chautauqua County -- for late Tuesday...
It'll be mostly sunny across Western New York today... but that will change by Tuesday afternoon... as a strong cold front will bring the possibility of severe weather to the region.  The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center currently has most of Western New York, including Chautauqua County, under an enhanced severe weather risk.  Forecaster Jon Hitchcock with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says it's a risk level of 3 out of 5 the region may see only once or twice a year.  Hitchcock says showers and thunderstorms will move into the area Tuesday afternoon and evening.  He says the primary threat will be damaging winds with a secondary threat of large hail, and an isolated tornado can't be ruled out.  Hitchcock adds that the greatest risk will be inland from Lake Erie.  He says chances of severe storms are less along the lake shore due to Lake Erie still being cold at this time of year.  Hitchcock advises residents to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.

Falconer woman faces Aggravated DWI charge following crash in Jamestown...
A Falconer woman escaped injury... but, faces an aggravated drunk driving charge following a one-car accident on Jamestown's eastside early Sunday morning.  City police say they were called to the scene in the area of Allen and Scioto Streets just after 2:30 a.m., and, found a street sign in the roadway, a damaged telephone pole and tire skid marks leading to a damaged vehicle stopped in the middle of the roadway.  Officers say they made contact with the driver... 43 year-old Carolyn Shields... who was in the driver'S seat.  During their investigation... police found that Shields had been driving while under the influence.  She was taken into custody for Aggravated DWI... because her blood alcohol content was about three-times the legal limit.  She also faces a second DWI charge... and was issued appearance tickets for city court.

Sherman man arrested for reckless endangerment following discharge of gun during alleged fight...
A man from Sherman has been arrested for allegedlly discharging a firearm in close proximity to another person... and, homes in the village of Sherman.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene of a reported fight just after 5 p.m. last Saturday.  While responding... deputies say they learned that 36 year-old Cotey Thiem... had allegedly shot off the gun.  After an investigation... Thiem was arrested for second-degree reckless endangerment... and, issued an appearance ticket for Mina Town Court.

Man from Dunkirk arrested for alleged shooting incident late last week...
A Dunkirk man has been charged after an investigation into a shooting that occurred in the north county city last Thursday night.  Dunkirk Police Chief Chris Witkowski says officers responded to several 911 calls reporting an altercation with shots fired in the area of East Fifth Street and Columbus Avenue shortly after 9:30 p.m. and, got more calls later.  Officers later found some spent shell casings in the area after witnesses were uncooperative.  Witkowski says a search warrant was executed at a nearby residence, and that led to the discovery of a loaded firearm.  He says the suspect (Mr. Sanchez) was allegedly found to have shot the gun off at the scene... and, he was taken into custody.  He's charged with second and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, first-degree reckless endangerment, and unlawful discharge of a firearm.  He was arraigned in Dunkirk City Court and remanded to the county jail on $10,000 bail. 

Woman arrested for allegedly leaving the scene of DWI accident...
A 46 year-old woman has been arrested for allegedly driving drunk... and, leaving the scene of an accident in the city of Jamestown last Wednesday.  City police were called to the accident scene just before 5 a.m., and, quickly saw the car leaving the location on just a rim.  Officers say they stopped the vehicle... driven by 46 year-old Antwene Fields... and, found she was intoxicated.  Police say a search of Field's car turned up a quantity of cocaine... and, she was arrested for seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... DWI... unlicensed operation... and, having an unsafe tire.  Fields was booked and issued appearance tickets for city court.

Woman from Dunkirk arrested for allegedly stealing and selling town of Portland person's art works...
A Dunkirk woman is accused of stealing and selling collectible art items worth about $25,000 from a home in the town of Portland earlier this month.  Sheriff's officers say their investigation into the April 7 incident led to the arrest of 53 year-old Angela Szukala... who was renting space inside the residence.  Deputies say their investigation found that Szukala was selling the art works without the owner's permission.  She was arrested for third-degree grand larceny... and, was issued appearance tickets for Portland Town Court at a later date.

Elmira man arrested for violating order of protection in Jamestown...
A man from Elmira has been arrested for allegedly violating an order of protection in Jamestown... and, was also in possession of illegal drugs.  City police were called to a westside address about 1:30 a.m. last Friday for a domestic incident.  Officers say when they arrived... they found 32 year-old Orishio Kingsberry inside the residence with the victim who had the "stay-away" order against him.  Kingsberry was taken into custody without incident... and, was later found in possession of seven-grams of cocaine.  He was charged wtih second-degree criminal contempt... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, jailed pending arraignment.

Wehrfritz updates county legislature on CLPOA Lawsuit against state regarding wetland regulations, and group's Saturday meeting in Bemus Point...
The newest Chautauqua Lake organization will discuss it's lawsuit against New York state to have it's new Freshwater Wetland Regulations annuled in court this Saturday.  The Chautauqua Lake Property Owners Association will hold it's ninth meeting regarding the regulations, and what they're doing to try and stop them... tomorrow morning in Bemus Point.  CLPOA President Jim Wehrfritz says they're at a "critical point" in the effort.  Wehrfritz... who lives in Ellery... addressed the county legislature at Wednesday night's meeting to outline the CLPOA's decision to file suit against the state last Friday.  Wehrfritz says they've been joined in the suit by the town of Ellery... the Builders Exchange of the Southern Tier... and, the Bemus Point Business Associatiion in the suit which also names the state Department of Environmental Conservation.  Wehrfritz says the CLPOA determined that was the time to file the lawsuit to halt the amendment to the Freshwater Wetlands regulations because they're already impacting local communities... and, property owners.  Even though the legislature and County Executive P.J. Wendel haven't joined their lawsuit... Wehrfritz says he hopes they will begin to speak more publicly against the DEC's new regulations.  He says they'll be the focus of the CLPOA's meeting tomorrow morning... April 26... at the Lawson Center in Bemus Point from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Forestville woman arrested for allegedly stealing more than $50,000 from town of Dunkirk resident...
A woman from Forestville has been arrested for allegedly stealing more than $50,000 from a person in the town of Dunkirk.  Sheriff's officers say they investigated the matter after receiving a referral from another county agency.  Deputies say that investigation showed that 45 year-old Meaghan Cappa had taken the money between April of 2023... and, August of 2024.  Officers say Cappa was charged with second-degree grand larceny... and, she was arrested after turning herself late yesterday at the County Jail in Mayville.  She was booked through centralized arraignment... and issued appearance tickets for Dunkirk Town Court and released.

Man from Forestville recovering after serious ATV Crash in town of Sheridan...
A Forestville man has been seriously hurt in an all-terrain vehicle crash and rollover in the town of Sheridan.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene on Center Road shortly before 7 p.m. last Wednesday... and, found the unidentified, 66 year-old man, had sustained serious physical injuries.  Local rescue crews were assisted by County EMS... Alstar EMS... and, the Stat Medivac Helicopter in providing first aid... and, transport to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.

Man arrested in Jamestown for fleeing police following alleged fight...
A 20 year-old man has been arrested in Jamestown for allegedly leading police on a vehicle... and, then foot chase following a reported fight on the city's westside.  Jametown police were called to the location shortly after 12:30 a.m. Wednesday... and, on arrvial... saw a car drive off from the curbside.  Officers tried to stop the vehicle... but, the operator -- identified as Anthony Rivera -- failed to comply.  Police briefly pursued the vehicle before Rivera failed to stay on the road... and, the car struck a curb and came to a stop in a yard.  Officers say he led them on a brief foot chase before being taken into custody.  He was charged with third-degree unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle... resisting arrest... and, driving while intoxicated.  Rivera was also issued multiple traffc tickets... and, was jailed pending arraignment.

Borrello and Wdowiasz offer points of view on potential Control Board in light of legislation proposed in Albany...
State Senator George Borrello announced last month that he would introduce legislation to establish a financial control board for the City of Dunkirk in an effort to help the city get through its fiscal crisis.  That bill is now officially in committee.  That... says Borrello... comes after he introduced the measure late last week.  He says there is a 45-day waiting period to allow comments to be made on the proposal... and, adds he believes that Mayor Kate Wdowiasz has had the bill for about two weeks.  Borrello says they're just waiting for feedback now.  The legislation states that the control board would consist of nine members, including six Chautauqua County residents. Four of the members would be appointed directly by Governor Kathy Hochul.  Meanwhile, Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz says there are several issues she is still concerned about, including the part where it states that control board members would be reimbursed for "actual expenses." 

City man arrested for violating order of protection...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly being found walking with a person who has an order of protection against him.  City police say a recent patrol on Washington Street spotted 38 year-old Jose Roman walking with the other person... and, found that person had a "stay-away" order against Roman.  Police took Roman into custody without incident on one count of first-degree criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Seven arrested in Jamestown on drug and weapons possession charges...
Seven people have been arrested following a drug raid on Jamestown's westside about mid-day Tuesday.  City police say members of the Jamestown Metro... and, Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Forces executed a search warrant on the upstairs apartment at 26 West 9th St. with the help of the JPD SWAT Team after an investigation into complaints of drug trafficking.  Officers say 14 people were inside at the time.  During their entry... investigators say they saw various items being thrown out of a window.  Police say a search of the apartment led to seizure of just over 4-grams of cocaine... 2.3 grams of crack cocaine... 28.8-grams of fentanyl... $195 in cash.... along with digital scales, packaging materials, and a handgun.  Officers arrested Luis Torres-Cortes for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two counts of first degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  In addition... Jimmy Alvarez Ocasio is charged with criminal possession of a firearm... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  A third person... Eric Carter... is charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Police say Jesus Lao Santana was arrested for two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Donald Swanson is charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  The sixth person... Hector Dejesus was wanted by city police for petty larceny and also found him in possession of a quantity of fentanyl... and, he's also charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  They add that Jacob Trippy was wanted by Ellicott Town Police... and, turned over to them at the scene.  seven others were released from the scene.  Due to the conditions of the apartment... the city's Department of Development condemned the apartment.  If you have any information on illegal drug and other suspicious activity... you are asked to call Jamestown police by their Tip Line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.  You can also call the Sheriff's Office at 800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

County Legislature approves second measure to keep additional 1% sales tax... and, keep 3% bed tax in place...
The Chautauqua County Legislature had more discussion and debate last night before approving two final state legislature bills to continue it's additional sales and occupany taxes for two years.  Lawmakers approved both measures, 13-to-2 with four legislators absent.  The only two Democrats at the meeting... Fred Larson and Tom Nelson... voted against the measures.  Nelson says lowering or eliminating the 1% sales tax... would benefit local residents and businesses in many ways.  Nelson says it would allow the county to be more competitive with neighboring Pennsylvania... and help lower income residents who pay out more of their incomes on taxable items.  Since both measures have to be approved by state lawmakers by the end of session... Sheridan Republican Terry Neibel urged lawmakers to instead focus on lowering property taxes in the 2026 budget plan. 
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Discussion over the 3% occupancy -- or bed tax -- got a bit more technical because of a provision that sends half of those revenues to the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau.  Fred Larson questioned why that was added after 20 years previously of having the local legislature vote on each request for funding.  Larson says prior to the provision... anybody requesting the funding had to go through the legislature to get it.  For half of it now... he says that's no longer the case.  Legislature Legal Counsel Stephen Abdella noted that the legislature -- in the past -- would only have to approve the 3% and separate 2% bed taxes informally.  

Forestville man serious hurt in ATV crash in town of Sheridan...
A Forestville man has been seriously hurt in an all-terrain vehicle crash and rollover in the town of Sheridan.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene on Center Road shortly before 7 p.m. Wednesday night... and, found the unidentified, 66 year-old man, had sustained serious physical injuries.  Local rescue crews were assisted by County EMS... Alstar EMS... and, the Stat Medivac Helicopter in providing first aid... and, transport to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.

Three days of public viewing for the late Pope Francis begins, local Catholics mourn the passing...
Three days of public viewing began Wednesday at St. Peter's Basilica as the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis.  Thousands have already filed by to pay their respects to the late pontiff... who passed away several hours after Easter Sunday Mass.  In the U.S., hundreds of Catholic parishes are holding special masses, and are open to the faithful who want to offer prayers.  Local Administrator, Father Paul Cygan of Holy Apostles Parish, says they're putting up black and white buntings in honor of Francis... either inside our outside of the churches.  He says that's traditional in the church if the pope or a local priest dies.  The pope is in a simple, wooden casket that's been placed on a slight ramp at St. Peter's.  Father Cygan says that's just an example of Pope Francis' life of humility... and, mercy. 

City woman arrested for DWAI after being found unresponsive behind the wheel...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested after she was found passed out behind the wheel of a car during a well-being check on the city's westside.  Jamestown police say officers were called to the unidentified location shortly before 1 a.m. last Friday... and, found 35 year-old Heather Brown unresponsive and behind the wheel.  Police they their investigation showed that Brown had been driving while under the influence of narcotics... and, she was arrested for driving while ability imparied by drugs... and, third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation.  Officers say they also found her in possession of a quantity of narcotics... and, she was additionally charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, she was jailed pending arraignment.

Homeless man arrested for DWAI, and speeding following traffic stop in Ellicott...
A homeless man is accused of driving while under the influence of drugs... and, speeding following a recent traffic stop in the town of Ellicott.  Town police say 49 year-old Jeffrey Seekings was pulled over for driving in excess of 55 mph... and, during a search was found with a quantity of narcotics in his possession last Friday.  Ellicott officers say they also found that Seekings was sought on an active Jamestown City Court warrant.  They add that he refused to submit to a chemical test... and, he was charged with two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... criminal use of drug paraphenalia... driving while intoxicated... and, driving while ability impaired by drugs.  Seekings was taken to the county jail for centralized arraignment... and will appear in Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

Langworthy to hold telephone Town Hall on Thursday... but, still says no to in-person Town Halls...
There have been countless requests from residents of New York's 23rd Congressional District to have their representative hold an in-person town hall meeting.  But... don't expect to see one happen anytime soon.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy says the in-person town halls that have been taking place across the country since the beginning of President Donald Trump's second term, have been "political theater" where a group rallies several people to create chaos and shouting matches at these events.  One example Langworthy provided was a meeting that took place in his district in March.  He says the event in Hamburg was organized by a movement known as "Indivisible..." which he says is backed by Billionaire businessman, liberal activist and philanthropist George Soros.  Langworthy also says it's "virtually impossible" for him to have an "appropriate" series of in-town halls due to the district being spread across nine counties... and, given the amount of time he spends in Washington.  He says that's wound up being more than he would like... and, says that's why he holds "telephone town halls" once a month.  The next one is Thurs., April 24 at 7:30 p.m.  

Dunkirk man arrested for allegedly harassing girl inside Ladies Room at a local business...
A Dunkirk man has been arrested after confronting and harassing a girl as she came out of a bathroom stall at a town of Ellicott business Tuesday afternoon.  Town Police say they were called to a suspicious person complaint at the business about 12:15 p.m., and, investigated.  They then arrested 29 year-old Dylan J. Howard for second-degree harassment... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  Howard was taken to the county jail... pending centralized arraignment.  He will be issued an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court.

Unidentified man suffers minor injuries when car overturns in Cattaraugus County...
Distracted driving is being blames for a one-car rollover crash that injured one person in the Cattaraugus County town of Dayton.  Sheriff's officers in Little Valley say the unidentified driver was traveling on Route 353 just after 1 p.m. Sunday when he looked down at his GPS... and, was unable to navigate a turn in the road.  Deputies say the car went onto the shoulder and almost into a ditch.  While trying to steer back onto the roadway... officers say the driver lost control and the car slid into the oncoming lane of traffic and rolled onto the roof.  The driver was taken to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo for treatment of minor injuries.

Borrello says legislature approves seventh-budget extender...
A seventh extender is needed to keep New York State's government running as the state budget for the new fiscal year is now three weeks late.  However... a local state lawmaker has been told that a deal has been made on Gov. Kathy Hochul's proposed discovery law changes, which has been one of the big roadblocks in negotiations.  Senator George Borrello, who has been supportive of those changes, cited the results of a Siena College poll released Tuesday morning, which finds that a plurality of New Yorkers support her push to restore more public safety.  Meanwhile... he says there are still disagreements over a number of other issues, including a new proposal by Hochul to lower the minimum age of state corrections officers from 21 to 18 after the firing of 2,000 corrections officers who participated in the 22-day prison strikes.  Borrello says that "last-minute" request by Hochul is a move he does not support... because there are already 19 year-olds in the prisons acting as corrections officers.  The Sunset Bay Republican adds that state lawmakers having to make repeated trips to Albany during this extended budget process is a "tremendous" cost to taxpayers.  The new spending plan was due on April 1.

City Council committee approves nearly $29-million in borrow by BPU for three major projects...
The Jamestown City Council will vote next week on a pair of bonding resolutions for new projects at the Board of Public Utilities.  Council Finance Committee Chairman Brent Sheldon says the panel first approved the BPU borrowing $1.65-million for two projects... one of them being improvements to the Wastewater Treatment plant... and construction of a new gasoline/diesel fueling station.  Sheldon says $900,000 off the bond will go for the Wastewater Treatment plan... and the other $750,000 will be for the new, gasoline/diesel fueling station to replace the old one.  He says the city has already approved chipping in $500,000 in ARPA funding for that project.  Sheldon says the Finance Committee also approved allowing the BPU to borrow up to $27-million for a new water pump station... which will include a new tank, and hydro-chloronation station... along with a generator and electric service.  He says the committee also approved that measure.  Sheldon adds that BPU General Manager Dave Leathers spoke to lawmakers in some detail about the measures two weeks ago.

Local Catholic administrator expresses surprise, loss... with passing of Pope Francis...
Catholics across the U-S... and, here in the Jamestown-area... are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away early Monday morning at The Vatican.  It came as a jolt to many because the Pope had appeared to the faithful for Easter Services, and a ride around St. Peter's Square in Rome Sunday.  The Pope was being hospitalized for double pneumonia for two months before his recent release... and, Father Paul Cygan, administrator for Holy Apostles Parish in Jamestown, was among those surprised by the news.  Cygan says he saw some of the video clips of Francis' meeting with Vice-President JD Vance... and, from him being at the Easter Sunday Mass... and, thought he was on the mend.  Cygan says seeing the Holy Father pass away is like losing a grandfather, or someone else in the family.  Frances was often regarded as "The People's Pope..." because of his willingness to visit and speak to the downtroden.  Father Cygan says the pope made that a focus of the "Year of Jubilee" during Francis' third-year.  Father Cygan heads up five perishes in Western New York... including Holy Apostles in the Jamestown-area.  He says the parishes will put up black and white buntings... and, be open for people for special prayers during the period of mourning for Pope Francis.

Fredonia woman arrested for allegedly taking more than $27,000 in SNAP benefits she wasn't entitled to...
A north county woman is accused of bilking the U.S. Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program... otherwise known as SNAP... out of $27,000 in benefits.  The Sheriff's Office reports they arrested 30 year-old Tifanny Pratt of Fredonia Monday on six counts of first-degree offering a false instrument for filing... third-degree welfare fraud... misuse of food stamps... and, third-degree grand larceny.  Deputies say their Criminal Investigation Division... along with the county's Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services Program Integrity Unit... and, the District Attorney’s Office... found from May of 2022 through January 2025... Pratt filed multiple SNAP applications with the Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services... and, failed to disclose income resources when she filed the SNAP applications.  With that... she received the more than $27,000 SNAP benefits she was not entitled to.  She was arraigned and issued an appearance ticket to appear in Fredonia Village Court.  If you know of suspected welfare fraud or food stamp misuse should be reported by calling the hotline 1-800-388-5365.

Distracted driving blamed for rollover crash in Cattaraugus County...
Distracted driving is being blamed for a one-car rollover crash that injured one person in the Cattaraugus County town of Dayton.  Sheriff's officers in Little Valley say the unidentified driver was traveling on Route 353 just after 1 p.m. last Sunday when he looked down at his GPS... and, was unable to navigate a turn in the road.  Deputies say the car went onto the shoulder and almost into a ditch.  While trying to steer back onto the roadway... officers say the driver lost control and the car slid into the oncoming lane of traffic and rolled onto the roof.  The driver was taken to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo for treatment of minor injuries.

Jamestown woman arrested following eastside domestic incident...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested following a domestic incident on the city's eastside in which she threw a cellphone at a window.  Jamestown police say they were called to the location shortly before 10 p.m. last Tuesday... and, found that 22 year-old Selena Santiago had gotten into the argument, and threw the phone... breaking it and the window.  Santiago was arrested for fourth-degree criminal mischief... and, was held pending arraignment.

RV destroyed in West Ellicott drive-way fire, siding on adjacent homes damaged...
Fire has destroyed a recreational vehicle parked in the driverway of a home in West Ellicott that sent huge plumes of black smoke into the air.  Celoron Fire Chief Tim Nelson says crews were called to the scene at 837 Fairmount Ave. about 9:30 Monday morning.  Nelson says the fire had a good head start... and, the vehicle was fully-engulfed in flames.  He says Lakewood was also immediately dispatched.  He says they had to run hoses across Fairmount Avenue to access nearby hydrants, so the road had to be closed in the immediate area.  Nelson says it took firefighters about 15 minutes to bring the flames under control.  He says the family that owned both the house and motor home were out-of-town at the time... and a passerby called in the alarm.  Nelson adds that Busti firefighters joined Celoron and Lakewood at the scene... along with county fire coordinators.  He says the county's Fire Investigation Team has also been called... and, says there may have been an electrical issue with a wire running from the garage to the RV to possibly charge a battery.  Nelson says the home and garage where the RV was parked both had exposure side damage to those structures... along with exposure damage to one side of a neighboring home.  Someone was home there at the time of the fire... but, got out safely.

City woman arrested for drug possession during southside traffic stop...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for drug possession following a traffic stop on the city's southside early last Saturday evening.  Jamestown police say a patrol spotted a car involved in moving traffic violations just before 7 p.m. in the area of Forest and Hazeltine Avenues... and, stopped the vehicle.  Officers say they found the passenger in the car... identified as 49 year-old Patricia Pearson... was in possession of about 5.4-grams of methamphetamine... and, 1.1-grams of cocaine.  Pearson was taken into custody on two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, released with an appearance ticket for city court.

Two Jamestown men arrested for allegedly threatening woman with handgun and pipe...
Two men from Jamestown have been arrested for allegedly physically menacing a woman walking on a sidewalk... and, one is also accused of threatening her with a gun.  City police were called to the area of Prendergast Avenue just after 7 p.m. last Friday night for a person with a weapon.  While responding to the scene... officers were told that one person had brandished a firearm during a dispute involving several people.  On arrival... police learned that 21 year-old Illinois Jackson had approached the victim walking on the sidewalk and refused to let them by.  When she tried again to walk past... they say 20 year-old Joseph Connolly brandished what appeared to be a handgun... or other firearm in his pants waistband... and, threatened the victim, and her dog.  As the victim called
the police... officers say Jackson pulled out a pipe and also threatened the victim.  Both men were arrested on two counts each of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two each of second-degree menacing.  They were jailed pending arraignment.

Man from Frewsburg arrested for Aggravated DWI following traffic accident...
A Frewsburg man faces an aggravated drunk driving charge following a motor vehicle accident on the Falconer-Frewsburg Road in the town of Poland.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene about 9 p.m. last Saturday... and, found the driver of the car involved was 76 year-old Kenneth Yocum.  After an investigation... deputies arrested Yocum for DWI, Aggravated DWI with a Blood Alcohol Content of .18% or higher... and, moving from lane unsafely.  Yocum was issued appearance tickets for Poland Town Court at a later date.

$2.5-million upgrade to AgriAmerica facility completed...
A years-long project to revitalize and upgrade a grape juice processing facility in the village of Fredonia is now complete.  Governor Kathy Hochul announced late last week that AgriAmerica Fruit Products has finished a $2.5-million project to expand the 69,000 square foot facility.  Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel says AgriAmerica upgraded its machinery so that it can process grapes at a higher capacity and with more efficiency.  AgriAmerica acquired the facility at 200 Water St. in 2018.  State Senator George Borrello, who was County Executive at the time of that acquisition, says the expansion is a "big win" for not only Chautauqua County, but for Western New York.  Empire State Development and the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency provided financial incentives to bring the facility "back to life," according to CCIDA Chief Executive Officer Mark Geise.  Hochul says the project will create an additional five full-time jobs and numerous seasonal positions at the Fredonia processing facility.

City woman arrested for trespassing inside westside home, and falling asleep on couch...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly trespassing at a westside home... and, then falling asleep on a couch.  Jamestown police were called to the location about 7:40 last Thursday morning... and, their investigation showed that 23 year-old Gabrielle Wright had entered the home through a first-floor window.  She then fell asleep on the victim's couch.  Wright was taken into custody for second-degree criminal trespass... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Comedy Comedy announces 2025 Festival line-up to include Jon Stewart and Bill Murray...
A star-studded line-up has been announced by the National Comedy Center for this August's annual Comedy Festival.  The center today has announced that Jon Stewart... Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers band... Saturday Night Live star Mikey Day and, head writer Streeter Seidell are among the comedic performers who'll be here on Aug. 7-10, 2025.  Stewart... who still hosts The Daily Show on occasion... will peform his incisive stand-up comedy on stage on Sat., Aug. 9.  Then on Sun., Aug. 10... a Stand-Up Show case will be followed by a Rock ‘n’ Blues concert featuring Bill Murray and His Blood Brothers group will fill the arena with an evening of comedy and music — a live blues and classic rock performance along with stand-up by some of today’s top talent from around the country.  Murray... of course... first stepped into the national spotlight with his performances on Saturday Night Live... and, later in comedic movies like "Caddyshack..." and Ground Hog Day."  Current SNL cast member and writer Mikey Day and head writer Streeter Seidell will join with the comedy center for an on-stage dialogue curated for comedy’s national archive.  They'll be offering an inside look at the ground-breaking show as the festival honors SNL’s 50th anniversary and explores its lasting impact on comedy.
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The center says tickets for “An Evening with Jon Stewart” and the “Stand-Up Showcase Featuring Music by Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers” will go on pre-sale for National Comedy Center members Fri., Apr. 25 at 10 a.m. EDT... through Thurs., May 1.  Tickets go on sale to the general public Fri., May 2 at 10 a.m. at ComedyCenter.org. 

City man arrested for unlawful imprisonment following "physical domestic" incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly restraining a woman... and, now allowing her to leave a westside residence early Thursday morning.  City police say they were called to a "physical domestic" incident about 1:30 a.m., and, their investigation found that 53 year-old Kevin Bellardo physically restrained the woman as she was trying to leave.  Bellardo was arrested on one count of second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and, jailed pending arraignment.

Jamestown man arrested for drunk driving after car hits parked vehicle, and telephone pole...
A city man is accused of drunk driving after his car crashed into a telephone pole... and, then he drove off from the scene on Jamestown's eastside.  City police were called to the scene in the area of Willard and Allen Streets just after 2:30 a.m. Thursday... and, determined the car had first struck a parked car on Swan Street.  Officers say the car... driven by 22 year-old Mason Harmon... then struck the pole on Willard.  Harmon's vehicle sustained "significant damage..." and, he was arrested for failure to keep right... leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident... and, after a chemical test... he was found to be driving with a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit.  He was also ticketed for DWI... and, held pending arraignment.

Quattrone announced renewed effort to solve death of Buffalo-area mother in 1990...
The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office's Unsolved Crimes Unit is investigating a murder that occurred in the town of Sheridan nearly 35 years ago.  Sheriff Jim Quattrone says investigators are looking into different leads in the case of Judith Lynn McElheney, a 27-year-old mother from Buffalo who was found by a passing motorist on Route 5, about three miles west of the Silver Creek village line.  Quattrone says McElheney was shot once on Oct. 8, 1990.  Quattrone says the shooting was involved back then... but, not solved.  It is believed that McElheney, who was reportedly visiting some local clubs on the evening of the shooting, had dragged herself to the place she was found. Quattrone encourages anyone who may have information on the shooting to call the Unsolved Crimes Unit... at (716) 753-4579.  McElheney is described as 5'0" and slim with shoulder-length brown hair and gray eyes. She had the tattoo of a bird above a red heart with a ribbon with the name "Judy" on her arm.

City man arrested on warrant after resisting officers...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested on a bench warrant... and, after trying to hide from arresting officers on the city's southside early yesterday morning.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene on a warrant check about 2:30 a.m., and, were told that 40 year-old Darren Mushat was upstairs in the residence.  Mushat had confirmed warrants out of Jamestown City Court... and, officers -- several times -- called for him to come downstairs.  However... he refused and police went into the room where Mushat was located, and he was taken into custody.  He was additionally charged with resisting arrest.... and, jailed pending arraignment.

Fugitive from Justice in Florida arrested after being struck by car in Jamestown...
A fugitive from justice from the state of Florida has been arrested after being struck by a car late this past Tuesday night.  City police say they were called to the area of North Main and West Third Streets just after 11 p.m. for a vehicle striking a pedestrian... causing minor injuries.  However... officers say on the name of 25 year-old Tyler Dalton... uncovered an active Felony warrant out of Sarasota County.  Dalton was treated and released at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital before being taken to the city jail on a charge of fugitive from justice.

City man accused of drunk driving after his car strikes parked car, and utility pole...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly driving drunk when his car crashed into a telephone pole... and, then he drove off from the scene.  City police were called to the scene in the area of Willard and Allen Streets just after 2:30 a.m. Thursday... and, learned the car had first struck a parked car on Swan Street.  Officers say the car... driven by 22 year-old Mason Harmon... then struck the pole on Willard.  Harmon's vehicle sustained "significant damage..." and, he was arrested for failure to keep right... leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident... and, after a chemical test... he was found to be driving with a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit.  He was also ticketed for DWI... and, held pending arraignment.

Jamestown man arrested on warrants after trying to flee deputies by jumping out of window in Westfield...
A man from Jamestown is accused of jumping out the window of a Westfield home after allegedly violating a stay-away order of protection againt him.  Sheriff's officers say they were doing a warrant check in the town just after 1 p.m. Wednesday... and, identified 22 year-old Mikelle Davis as being inside the home.  Deputies say Davis also had active arrest warrants against him from Westfield Village Court.  He exited the home using the window to try and elude police.  However... he was later apprehended a short distance away in a vineyard.  He is charged with second-degree criminal contempt... and, resisting arrest.  Davis was taken to the county jail for centralized arraignment.

Quattrone announces two initiative to help special needs drivers, and others...
The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office has launched a new initiative designed to promote safety and awareness for people with special needs -- including those on the Autism Spectrum.  Sheriff Jim Quattrone Wednesday announced the "Friends of the Sheriff" which introduces optional decals and dispatch alerts to assist deputies in responding to traffic and other emegency calls with greater understanding and care.  He says law enforcement across the U.S. have begun the initative, called the "Blue Envelope" program... and, are encouraging drivers to obtain the envelopes to keep their license, registration and other items they would need during a possible traffic stop.  Quattrone says there are more and more drivers that are on some part of the Autism Spectrum... and, adds this will help with person with it... or whoever is riding with them... and, officers.  He says local officers do receive some training at the Sheriff's Academy... including a state requirement to learn how to deal with people "in crisis," or having mental health, or autism issues.  Quattrone also announced a "Friends of the Sheriff" decal... which is now available through his office, and can be put on cars, and or homes to let police know there's someone there with "special needs."  Quattrone says applications for the decals... and, envelopes are available through Reva Cusimano at the Sheriff's Office.  The phone number is (716) 753-4900.  He says they also hope to have it on their website and mobile app.

Pair from Mayville arrested for harassing business employee...         
Two people from Mayville have been arrested for allegedly being involved in an altercation at a village business... and, then threatening and employee of that business.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a West Lake Road address about 10 a.m. back on April 8 on a harassment complaint.  Deputies say they found that 57 year-old Larry Passinger... and, 25 year-old Alexis Passinger were involved in they altercation... and, determined that Larry had verbally threatened the safety of an employee multiple times before leaving.  They add that Alexis later called and threatened the same employee multiple times as well.  Both were charged with second-degree aggravated harassment... and released with appearance tickets for Chautauqua Town Court at a later date.

City man arrested on Felony warrant, and drug possession...
A Jamestown man wanted on a Felony warrant has been arrested after trying to flee from police... and, dispose of illegal drugs in his possession.  City police say officers were on patrol near a southside business shortly before 7 p.m. last Thursday... and, saw 41 year-old Tyler Perez come out of the location.  Police knew there was a warrant for his arrest... but, he ran off before officers could talk to him.  During the brief foot chase... Perez was seen disposing of the drugs before being caught.  He ws arrested on the warrant... along with two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... resisting arrest and tampering with physical evidence.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Two Jamestown residents arrested on DWI, and obstruction charges...
Two people have been arrested on Jamestown's southside... one for allegedly driving drunk... the other for interferring with her arrest.  City police say they stopped a car... driven by 30 year-old Ellen Mesler... on Forest Avenue near Terrace Place... just after 2 a.m. last Friday for a traffic infraction.  Officers say they found Mesler had been driving while intoxicated... but, during the investigation... a man operating a vehicle in front of Mesler's... began to obstruct police.  Officers arrested both Mesler and 38 year-old Timothy Cornelius... and they wre taken to the city jail.  Police say both were charged with DWI... and, Mesler was additionally charged with Aggravated DWI.  Both were issued appearance tickets for city court at a later date.

County fire investigators determine origin... but, not cause of Tuesday house fire in Ellington...
Tuesday's early morning house fire in the town of Ellington started in a first-floor bedroom... however... the cause remains undetermined at this time.  The Sheriffs Department's Fire Investigation Team was called in to look for the cause of the blaze... which was called in shortly before 1 AM at 785 West Main St.   Ellington firefighters and three mutual aid companies responded to the scene.  After they snuffed out the blaze... the Fire Investigation Team was requested and determined the area where the fire started... but, they say the cause has not yet been determined.  No injuries were reported.

Quattrone announces new, "Friends of the Sheriff" initiative to help deal with people on Autism Spectrum during traffic and other emergency calls...
The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office has launched a new initiative designed to promote safety and awareness for people with special needs -- including those on the Autism Spectrum.  Sheriff Jim Quattrone Wednesday morning announced the "Friends of the Sheriff" which introduces optional decals and dispatch alerts to assist deputies in responding to traffic and other emegency calls with greater understanding and care.  Quattrone says law enforcement nationwide have recently adopted the "Blue Envelope Program," and encourage drivers with Autism and their families to put the person's license, registration and other pertinent information to it's easily accessed in case of a traffic stop, or other emergency.  He says there are more and more drivers that are on some part of the Autism Spectrum... and, adds this will help with person with it... or whoever is riding with them... to respond appropriately.  The Sheriff also announced a "Friends of the Sheriff" decal... which is now available through his office, and can be placed on rear driver's side window, mailbox, or front window to identify there is a person with "special needs" involved.  Quattrone says applications for the decals... and, envelopes are available through Reva Cusimano at the Sheriff's Office.  The phone number is (716) 753-4900.  He says they also hope to have it on their website and mobile app.

New Police Chief for Lakewood-Busti Police Dept., has family ties to department...
The Lakewood-Busti Police Department will have a new chief onboard at the beginning of next month.  That after the Lakewood Village Board approved the hiring of Matthew Bentley to head up the department at Monday night's meeting.  Mayor Randy Holcomb introduced the measure to hire Bentley who will begin his new duties on May 1... and, at a starting salary of $95,000.  Bentley, who is the younger son of retired Chief John Bentley, Jr., has been with the Jamestown Police Department and will end his employment there on April 30th.  Trustee Ben Troche thanked Mayor Holcomb for letting board members be part of the interview process... and, adds all four candidates they spoke with were good.  Troche added that the $95,000 salary is what recently-retired Chief Christopher Deponceau was making. 

Details given on Fredonia Village Trustee's proposed budget...
Fredonia village trustees have come up with a budget proposal for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, and it contains an even greater tax increase than what Mayor Mike Ferguson presented last month.  Treasurer Erlyssa LeBeau, who presented the figures during Monday's Board of Trustees meeting, says the budget that trustees are proposing totals about $12.78-million.  It also contains a property tax rate that's up 65.3% from this year.  Thats's a tax rate of $61.09 per $1,000... and, that would be a $540 tax increase for the average he average household.  LeBeau says trustees' proposal also includes an increase in the village's water and sewer rates.  Ferguson's budget proposal calls for a tax increase of nearly 55%.  A final budget is due by May 1.

Two arrested in Mayville for aggravated harassment following altercation at business...         
Two people from Mayville have been arrested for allegedly being involved in an altercation at a village business... and, then threatening an employee of that business.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a West Lake Road address about 10 a.m. back on Apr. 8 on a harassment complaint.  Deputies say they found that 57 year-old Larry Passinger... and, 25 year-old Alexis Passinger were involved in the altercation... and, determined that Larry had verbally threatened the safety of an employee multiple times before leaving.  They add that Alexis later called and threatened the same employee multiple times as well.  Both were charged with second-degree aggravated harassment... and released with appearance tickets for Chautauqua Town Court at a later date.

Two arrested for DWI, and obstruction following incident during traffic stop last Friday...
Two people have been arrested on Jamestown's southside... one for allegedly driving drunk... the other for interferring with her arrest.  City police say they stopped a car... driven by 30 year-old Ellen Mesler... on Forest Avenue near Terrace Place... just after 2 a.m. last Friday for a traffic infraction.  Officers say they found Mesler had been driving while intoxicated... but, during the investigation... a man operating a vehicle in front of Mesler's... began to obstruct police.  Officers arrested both Mesler and 38 year-old Timothy Cornelius... and they wre taken to the city jail.  Police say both were charged with DWI... and, Mesler was additionally charged with Aggravated DWI.  Both were issued appearance tickets for city court at a later date.

Lakewood Village Board hold's budget hearing that draw standing-room only crowd; lawmakers vow to make cuts to bring down tax increase...
A standing-room only crowd was on hand for last night's public hearing on the village of Lakewood's tentative, $5.8-million, 2025-26 budget.  The tentative spending plan is up a projected 29%.  However... village trustees appear confident they can at cut about a dollar of the proposed tax rate increase of $1.65 per $1,000 assessed value.  Trustee John Shedd says board members have just started discussing what kind of cuts can be made, and trustees add that they've been mulling a number of cuts already.  One of the biggest areas of discussion was over police department salaries... and, why they're up dramatically in the budget.  Trustee Ellen Barnes... a retired police officer... says there is a smaller pool of officers because fewer people are going into the profession.  Barnes says that means you need to boost salaries to get and keep good officers... and that's driving up the budget.  The more than 50-minute long public hearing also touched on police and fire department equipment and other fixed costs that have gone up.  The tentative budget plan increases the tax rate from $8.12 per $1,000 assessed value -- to $9.77.  The final budget will be voted on in two weeks.

Village Board also holds hearing on overriding state property tax cap...
Lakewood Village Board members are hopeful they won't have to exceed New York state's 2% property tax cap.  However... they want to be ready if they have to.  Trustees also held a brief public hearing on allowing them to override the tax cap... which may end up as low as 1.2%.  Some residents expressed concerns over three things:  new, increased assessments by the town of Busti... the size of the village budget... and, the impact of new wetland regulations on properties along Chautauqua Lake.  Trustee Ellen Barnes calls it a "Bermuda Triangle" for village property owners... with "everything coming together like this at this particular moment, and I sympathize with you."  She adds there are lot still yet to be determined.  Trustee Ben Troche says the board hopes they don't have to use the override in the final budget.  Mayor Randy Holcomb noted that the new assessments... once grievances are heard... won't impact budgets until local school taxes go out later this year.  Many property owners in the village have seen their reassessments at least double.  Holcomb says the village, town and county taxes would not be gauged on the new assessments until 2026. 

Fire heavily damages Ellington structure...
Flames have extensively damaged a home overnight in the town of Ellington.  Sheriff's Department dispatchers say Ellington firefighters were called to the scene on West Main Street about 12:45 a.m.  Reports from the scene indicated the structure was fully involved... and, was unoccupied.  Ellington was joined at the scene by Kennedy... Cherry Creek... Ellery Center volunteers, and fire coordinators.  No injuries were reported.

Fire in Sinclairville heavily damages structure there...
Chautauqua County fire investigators say they're still trying to determine the cause of a weekend structure fire in the village of Sinclairville.  County fire dipatchers say the call came in shortly after 2 p.m. Sunday to 27 Main St., Lot 9 in the village.  Sinclairville firefighters were joined at the scene by Gerry and Cassadaga fire crews.  Once the blaze was out... the county's Fire Investigation Team was called into look for the cause and origin of the fire.  However... following a "hands-on" investigation... the cause remains undetermined.  No injuries were reported.

City man arrested on multiple charges after allegedly being found drinking alcoholic beverage on Jamestown street...
A Jamestown man has been arrested on multiple charges after he was spotted drinking an alcoholic beverage on a sidewalk on the city's eastside Saturday morning.  Jamestown police say they were patrolled in the area of Prendergast Avenue and East Fifth Street just after 7:30 a.m. when they saw 45 year-old Guerhard DeGraff drinking the alcohol on the sidewalk.  Officers say DeGraff initially refused to stop for police... and, even after he finally stopped... he continued to drink the beverage in front of police.  As the officers attempted to address his behavior... DeGraff refused to pour out the beverage, and began pulling away from them when told he was under arrest.  He then actively resisted... and, tried to fight with officers.  After a brief struggle... DeGraff was subdued and put into wrist retraints.  However... he continued to fight and kick at the officers while in custody.  DeGraff was jailed pending arraignment on charges of public consumption of alcohol... second-degree obstruction and harassment... and, resisting arrest.

Council approves reinstating Fire Chief's position, as Coon moves into retirement next month...
Jamestown's Deputy Fire Chief is retiring early next month... and, the position is reverting back to full Fire Chief status in the city.  That after the City Council recently approved a measure that changes the public safety management structure back to autonomous fire and police chiefs.  In recent years... the Police Chief has also been the director of Public Safety... with the Deputy Fire Chief under that umbrella.  Current Deputy Fire Chief Matt Coon says it's not a major change... and, is more administrative in nature.  Coon is retiring on May 9 from the deputy's position... and, the city is beginning to look at potential candidates.  He says no matter who is chosen... they have to have officer training. 

City man arrested for harassment after allegedly threatening another person Sunday...
A Jamestown man is accused of threatening another person's life during disorderly conduct incident on the city's southside Sunday morning.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene shortly before 8 a.m., and, their investigation found that 40 year-old Richard Poorman had threatened the victim.  He's also accused of violating a stay-away order of protection the victim had against Poorman.  He was arrested without further incident... and, taken to the city Jail for second-degree harassment... and, first-degree criminal contempt.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Jamestown pair arrested for trespassing last weekend...
Two city residents are accused of illegally entering into... and, remaining inside a condemned house on Jamestown's westside without permission last weekend.  City police say they were called to the scene for a "burglary in progress" about 7 p.m. last Saturday... and, found 41 year-old Sean Carlson... and, 34 year-old Brittany Dellahoy inside unlawfully.  Both Carlson and Dellahoy were taken into custody without incident on one count each of third-degree criminal trespass.  They were taken to the city jail... and, later issued appearance tickets for city court at a later date.

Borrello co-sponsor of legislation that would reinstate fired state Corrections Officers...
There's legislation in Albany that would essentially allow the 2,000 New York State corrections officers who were fired after the 22-day wildcat prison strikes to be reinstated.  It would provide a grace period until July 1st for those former DOCCS employees to return to full duty without discipline.  State Senator George Borrello is a co-sponsor of the bill that was introduced on Thursday.   He feels getting those fired officers back on the job is imperative.  Borrello says, by her own admission, Gov. Kathy Hochul has stated that it's costing New York $100-million a month for National Guard to help staff corrections facilities.  However... the Sunset Bay Republican... adds that the promises that were made to those who are still on the job have not been kept.  He says there have been several exposure issues with drugs and other contraband.  The legislation was introduced by Dan Stec in the Senate and Scott Gray in the Assembly, one day after Hochul's executive order barring fired corrections officers from local or county governments expired.  The ban on state service remains in place.

Langworthy votes in favor of SAVE Act... says it will help improve election integrity...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy was among the House members who voted in favor of legislation that would require individuals to provide proof of U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections.  The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility -- or SAVE Act -- was passed 220-208, with four Democrats joining all Republicans in voting yes.  Langworthy said it's "absurd" that there's no federal requirement to show identification at the ballot box... because they are "so many other areas" that require such identification.  While critics of the legislation say it would make it harder for millions of citizens to vote... particularly married women... Langworthy describes that as a scare tactic for people that want to keep a system that's "rife for fraud."  The SAVE Act would also require states to establish a program to remove undocumented immigrants from existing voter rolls and allow American citizens to sue election officials who don't follow proof-of-citizenship requirements.  A companion bill awaits action in the U.S. Senate.

Schumer lauds late Buffalo-area Congressman, John LaFalce...
A former, long-time Congressman from Buffalo has passed away... and, is being remembered by fellow lawmakers.  Democrat John LaFalce passed away last weekend at the age of 85.  WIVB-TV in Buffalo reports LaFalce was elected to Congress in 1974 and represented Western New York from 1975-to-2003.  LaFalce represented the 36th Congressional District from 1975-to-83, the 32nd Congressional District from 1983-to-93, and the 29th Congressional District from 1993-to-2003.  During his time in office, he was the ranking Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee and also was a member of the House Small Business Committee.  U-S Senator Charles Schumer... who served for a time in the House with LaFalce... says he was "as Buffalo as they come.  He had one of the biggest brains and the biggest heart.  John was a legislative giant and a dear friend going back to our time serving together in the House."

Man arrested in PA for allegedly torching Governor's Mansion...
A man was arrested and will face charges including attempted murder, terrorism and attempted arson in a Sunday morning fire that badly damaged the Pennsylvania governor's mansion... and, forced Governor Josh Shapiro, his family and guests to quickly escape.  Shapiro says he, his wife, their four children, two dogs and another family that had celebrated the Jewish holiday of Passover with his family at the residence on Saturday were awakened by state troopers at about 2 a.m.  They were evacuated and the fire was extinguished, officials said.  No one was injured.  Pennsylvania State Police Colonel Christopher Paris identified the man in custody as 38 year-old Cody Balmer of Harrisburg.  Paris emphasized at a Sunday afternoon news conference that the investigation is continuing.  

Pair of Falconer residents arrested after being found in possession of alleged "Ghost Gun" and high-capacity ammo magazine...
City police have arrested two people from Falconer for allegedly being in possession of an alleged "ghost gun" and a high-capacity magazine during a traffic stop.  Jamestown police say they stopped a vehicle in the area of Falconer and Thayer Streets just after 3 p.m. Thursday after seeing the driver commit traffic infractions.  Officers say they found 20 year-old Caden Barrett and 19 year-old Airianna Parkhurst inside... and conducted a search.  Police say they found an unregistered hand-gun -- later found to be a ghost gun -- and the high-capacity magazine.  Barrett and Parkhurst were both arrested for second, third and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Both were jailed pending arraignment.

Ecklund says there are concerns as NYS Budget now nearly two-weeks late...
The New York State Legislature has approved another budget "extender" to fund the state government in Albany for another five days... as discussions remain stalled.  As the 2025-26 spending is nearly two-weeks late... there is some concern among local government leaders and school districts over what may take place.  Among them is Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund... who says with things "dynamic" at both the state and federal levels.  Ecklund says they want to make sure they have what they need for the rest of this year, and "can pay the bills."  She general state Aid and Incentives to Muncipalities aid... and, Consolidated Highway Improvement Program -- or CHIPS funding -- are two of the main sources of revenue the city gets from the state.  As of now... she says there is a proposed increase in that general aid item of $500,000 for next year.  The city received that increase in AIM funding this year.  Ecklund made her comments for this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Borrello blasts State Legislature crime measures by Democrats that make it through committee...
Two bills in Albany that would fast-track the release of inmates from state prison recently advanced through the State Senate Crime Victims, Crime and Correction Committee.  State Senator George Borrello is blasting Democrats' efforts to push through the Earned Time Act and the Fair and Timely Parole Act... calling it a "slap in the face to every victim who is still coping with the trauma of what was done to them, or their loved one."  Borrello says the Fair and Timely Parole Act would "dramatically" weaken New York's parole process... by allowing good behavior to be rewarded.  However... bad behavior would not be considered.  Meanwhile... the Sunset Bay Republican... says the Earned Time Act would allow inmates to reduce their sentences by up to 75% through good time and merit allowances, regardless of the severity of their crimes.  Borrello adds that the bill would prevent revocation of the credits, even if the inmate engages in misconduct behind bars.  He also noted that these changes would apply retroactively to all current inmates.

Dunkirk man arrested on drug and weapons charges following complaint at north county business...
A man from Dunkirk faces weapon and drug possession charges following a report of a person with a weapon at a business in the north county city Tuesday night.  Dunkirk Police were called to the area of Central Avenue and Lake Shore Drive East shortly after 8:15 p.m., and, learned the subject displayed a handgun in a threatening way inside the business, then fled the scene.  Police later found the vehicle and suspect, 23-year-old Nathan Rivera, still in the area.  They also found the firearm Rivera allegedly used, along with a substantial amount of narcotics.  Officers say the firearm, a 9-mm pistol, was illegally possessed by Rivera.  They also seized 20.3 grams of fentanyl packaged for street sales... along with packaging materials, scales and cash.  Rivera faces charges including:  two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, and, one count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the county jail on $3,000 bail.

City man arrested following domestic violence incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested following a domestic incident in which he held down... and, choked the victim on the city's southside last night.  Jamestown police were called to the unidentified scene shortly after 7 p.m., and, found that 39 year-old Kevin Johnson had violated an order of protection.  Johnson is accused of holding down, hitting and choking the person... and, allegedly damaging the person's electronic devices while the victim was trying to call for help.  Police say they arrested Johnson without incident on charges includling: criminal obstruction of breathing... two counts of fourth-degree criminal mischief... third-degree assault... and, unlawful imprisonment.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Langworthy issues statement on House Budget blueprint plan adoption early Thursday...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy was in the majority early Thursday that narrowly passed the House Budget resolution.  Langworthy says the measure... which provides the framework of a final bill... was adopted 216-214.  He says the resolution... which was amended in the U.S. Senate... "brings us one step closer to implementing President Trump’s economic agenda.  This bill provides a blueprint for delivering historic savings of taxpayer dollars that eliminates waste, fraud, and abuse while protecting essential programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security for those who truly need it."  Now that these hurdles have been cleared... the Buffalo-area Republican says committees -- "will get to work developing legislation that aligns with our goals of providing critical tax cuts for workiong and middle-class Americans, spurring job growth, and reducing our deficit."

(Sorry the Thursday items are late, due to power outage and technical issues at the stations overnight)

Surdyk outlines draft proposal for committee on new uses for $640,000 on federal HOME funding...   
There are a couple of potential programs the city of Jamestown's Department of Development could be funding using $640,000 in left-over, federal HOME monies.  That from Development Director Crystal Surdyk... who says her department has been scrambling to find ways to use the funding after the City Council voted down using it to help with remediation for the Gateway Lofts housing project on Water Street.  She says she told Housing Committee members this week that they would put  $140,000 in their Home Investment Partnerships program, and the other $500,000 for their Home Development Program... which includes doing site work, and possibly some demolition work.  However... she says there would have to be a plan to rebuild on that site.  She says the owner-occupied aspect of the program's also helps with their desire to spur development of new housing in the city.  Despite City Council rejecting that funding 5-4 at last month's meeting... the $77-million Gateway Lofts project has it's investor funding lined up... and, will begin in the near future.  Lawmakers said they wanted to see the funding go more towards rehabilitating current housing or creating new housing.

City man arrested on drug and weapons possession charges following drug raid on Thayer Street...     
A man from Jamestown faces several drug and weapons possession charges following a mid-afternoon raid Monday on his eastside apartment.  City police say members of the Jamestown Metro... and, the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Forces executed a search warrant on the lower apartment at 34 Thayer St. just after 3:30 p.m., and, found 45 year-old Thomas Dulak inside along with three other people.  All four were detained by the JPD SWAT Team... and, once the residence was secured... detectives searched... and, found 24.6-grams of fentanyl... 4.7 grams of methamphetamine... 3.4-grams of crack cocaine... 20 dosage units of fentanyl and several bottles of liquid methadone.  They also found scales, packaging materials, and a large amount of a cutting agent used for the sale of illegal drugs... and, a metal knuckle knife.  Dulak was arrested on three counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and one count each of fourth and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  He also faces three counts of criminally using drug paraphenalia... and, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Dulak was taken to the city jail... pending arraignment.  The other three occupants were released from the scene.

Pair of wanted men in Jamestown arrested on drug charges following suspicious vehicle complaint...
Two men sought by police on arrest warrants have been arrested on multiple drug possession charges following a suspicious vehicle complaint on Jamestown's westside.  City police say they were called to the location about 11 p.m. Tuesday... and, saw the vehicle parked there... and, one person getting out.  Officers say they found it was 32 year-old Dylan Abbey... who had a city court warrant for his arrest... and, he was taken into custody.  Officers located a second man in the passenger seat... who initially identified himself with a fake name.  However... police later identified the man as 39 year-old Tracy Wadsworth, and found he was also wanted on a city court warrant.  Officers say a search of Abbey uncovered a quantity of methamphetamine... and both men were taken to the city jail.  Following a search of the vehicle... police found just over 102-grams of methamphetamine... just over 15-grams of cocaine... a quantity of methamphetamine, packaging materials, digital scales, and a large amount of money.  Abbey has been charged with second-third and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance...  and, two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Wadsworth is being charged with second-and third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and, second-degree criminal impersonation.  Both were jailed pending arraignment.

County announces inaugural "CHQAging Expo & Conference to be held in May...
The Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services is hosting it's inaugural "CHQAging Expo and Conference" next month at the SUNY College at Fredonia.  Officials say the May 22 event will focus on providing the county's growing aging population with vital resources... education... and community engagement during the program at the Williams Center... which will feature a ribbon cutting shortly after 9:30 a.m., and, programs begin at 10 a.m.  Office for Aging Services Executive Director Dana Corwin says several dignitaries will be there for the kick-off... including New York State Office for Aging Services Director, Greg Olson.  The local office's Nutrition and Wellness Coordinator... Carrie Skelton... says they already have 90 agencies set to take part to address a number of topics.  She says they'll have lunch... and, afternoon "break-out" sessions for such areas as diabetes care and dementia awareness.  Corwin adds they're asking people to pre-register on their website... or you can call the Office for Aging Services for more information.  The deadline is Apr. 25.  The program is being held in conjunction with May as National Older American's Month. 

City man arrested following Tuesday night domestic incident...
A Jamestown man has been arrested after allegedly holding a woman against her will inside a bedroom during a domestic dispute on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the scene shortly after 10 p.m. last Tuesday, and, made contact with Tristan Eisenhart, and the victim.  Officers say their investigation showed that Eisenhart had restrained the woman inside the room during an argument... and, also damaged some of her property.  He was arrested for second-degree unlawful imprisonment, and fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Eisenhart was jailed pending arraignment.

Stockton man pleads guilty to phoning in bomb threats to two National Grid power plants...
A man from Stockton accused of calling in bomb threats to two National Grid power plants last May has pleaded guilty in federal court in Buffalo.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced Monday that 40 year-old Justin Horton entered the plea before U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence Vilardo to conveying false information and hoaxes, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.  Prosecutors say that, on the night of May 13, 2024, Horton called National Grid and stated -- quote -- "I'm calling to call a bomb threat into you.  I’m going to blow up both of your nuclear power plants by the end of next week."  Horton specified that he was referring to nuclear power plants located in New York and Pennsylvania.  However... DiGiacomo says the defendant didn't have the means or intent to carry out the threat.  Horton is to be sentenced next Aug. 15 in federal court.

Ashville man arrested on drug and other charges following traffic stop in Lakewood...
A man from Ashville has been arrested in Lakewood on drug, and other charges, following a traffic stop on East Summit Avenue late last week.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they stopped 33 year-old Tyler Bemis about 2 p.m. Friday for multiple traffic violations... and, found he was allegedly driving without insurance.  Further investigation found Bemis in possession of a quantity of crack cocaine... insurance... having an uninspected vehicle... and, having an illegal front windshield. 

Another day... another budget extender in Albany as NYS budget is now a week late...
Negotiations in Albany remain at an impasse on a new, 2025-26 New York State budget... which is now nearly a week late.  Local Assemblyman Andrew Molitor says lawmakers passed another budget extender on Monday in order to keep essential state services going.  Molitor says the debt service bill is still the only part of the budget that has been completed, adding that he has no idea when the other 10 bills will come to a floor vote... but, he says lawmakers were told to be ready to vote on another extender by this Thursday.  The Westfield Republican adds that if the budget process continues to drag out, it will become problematic for school and, that he was consuming cannibis inside the car.  Bemis was issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court on charges including: seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... consumption of marijuana inside a motor vehicle.... operating without districts and local governments... which would like to have final state aid figures for their own budgets.  Molitor says no progress has been made on the budget's main sticking points like discovery reform, changes to involuntary commitment, and a ban on face masks in public with intent to harass. The budget was due on Apr. 1.

Dunkirk man arrested after crashing his car in Hanover, then stealing another car before crashing it...
A man from Dunkirk has been arrested after allegedly crashing a vehicle in the town of Hanover and then stealing another car and crashing it in Erie County.  Chautauqua County sheriff's dispatchers say the vehicle was traveling on Holmes Road and went through the intersection with Allegany Road at about 2 p.m. last Friday.  Officers say it then crashed through a guardrail and onto the westbound lanes of Interstate 90.  They added that the driver stole a vehicle... whose driver pulled over to help... and, then crashed it in Eden.  State Police "Troop T" says 35 year-old David Payne has been charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, and third-degree unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle.  First responders from Silver Creek, Sunset Bay and Irving also responded.

City man recently arrested, arrested again for shoplifting...
A man from Jamestown recently arrested for another incident has been arrested again for allegedly shoplifting at the Dollar General store on Winsor Street.  City police say they were called to the scene just before 10 p.m. Monday... and, learned that 24 year-old Justice McBride had taken merchandise from the store... and, fled before they arrived.  Officers say they found McBride nearby... and, he led them on a short foot pursuit, and struggle, before being taken into custody.  Police charged him with third-degree burglary... petty larceny... and second-degree assault and obstructing governmental administration.  McBride was jailed pending arraignment.

Jamestown man arrested for passing bad checks in Ellicott to buy car... then selling it...
A Jamestown man has been arrested on multiple charges for allegedly handing out bad checks to pay for a car in the town of Ellicott.  Ellicott Town Police say they arrested 38 year-old Shane Cwanek last Friday... for allegedly issuing the bad checks back in January... and, knowing he didn't have the money to pay for it.  Officers say they charged Cwanek with third-degree Grand Larceny... and, three counts of issuing a bad check.  Police add that he also failed to return the vehicle... and, wound up selling it to someone else.  Town Police say they later recovered the vehicle... and, Cwanek was issued an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

City man arrested for Felony drug possession...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested following a street check early last weekend during which he was allegedly found in possession of 28-grams of methamphetamine.  City police say a patrol on the westside spotted 30 year-old Steven Schrecengost about 7 p.m. last Friday.  Officers found that Schrecengost was sought on an active city court warrant for failure to appear.  Police tried to apprehend Schrecengost when he fled, and led officers on a brief foot chase.  After a brief struggle... police arrested Schrecengost and found him with the meth... along with packaging materials, and digital scales.  He was taken to the city jail on one count of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... resisting arrest... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphanellia.

Protestors take to Dow Park, downtown Jamestown, as part of national "Hands Off" rallys opposing Trump Administration job and program cuts...
Some 300 people gathered in Jamestown's Dow Park late Saturday morning to protest the actions of President Donald Trump and Advisor Elon Musk.  The Jamestown Justice Coalition's Justin Hubbard helped get the crowd fired up for the  "Remove, Reverse, and Reclaim" Rally urging them to be "fired up" and "ready to go."  Hubbard was one of a handful of speakers that addressed the gathering before marching through part of the downtown area.  Jessica Fredrick is a clergy member of St. Luke's Church... and, urged people to avoid getting caught up in the "dizzying" pace of federal changes.  She called for people to get grounded... and, take action through their faith, and lending voice to the current generation or future ones.  Dan Gonzalez is a U-S Army veteran who served overseas... and, returned to Jamestown to start a family, and live the American Dream.  He called on those attending -- including other veterans -- to help those in need.  Gonzalez says in the military... during combat... they didn't leave commrades behind.  One woman... Shannon Bissett... who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis as a child... lauded the Affordable Care Act for helping her get the treatment and medications she needed to stay alive.  She's looking at going onto Medicare and Medicaid to deal with medication that costs $400,000 a year.

Protestors also call out Langworthy for support of Trump and Musk, and for not holding "in-person" town halls in Congressional District...
President Trump and Elon Musk weren't the only people protestors focused on during Saturday's rally in Dow Park.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy was called out for his support of Musk's "Department of Government Efficiency..." also known as DOGE.  Justin Hubbard says he's tried to speak with Langworthy on multipe occasions... but, has been either turned down or not responded to.  He adds the Buffalo-area Republican is a member of the House DOGE Subcommittee... so he and others on the committee could call Musk into answer to, and lay-out what DOGE has done.  Saturday's rally was part of the nationwide "Hands Off" rallies to protest major cuts to the federal government by DOGE... and other actions by the Trump administration.  There were also protests held last Saturday in Fredonia, and another in Buffalo.  

Ashville man arrested on drug and other charges following traffic stop in Lakewood last Friday...
An Ashville man was arrested late last week in Lakewood on drug, and other charges, following a traffic stop on East Summit Avenue.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they stopped 33 year-old Tyler Bemis about 2 p.m. on multiple traffic infractions... and, found he was allegedly driving without insurance.  Further investigation found Bemis in possession of a quantity of crack cocaine... and, that he was consuming cannibis inside the car.  Bemis is charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... consumption of marijuana inside a motor vehicle.... operating without insurance... having an uninspected vehicle... and, having an illegal front windshield.  He was issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court and released.  

City man arrested for northside burglary...
A Jamestown man has been been arrested after allegedly being an unwanted person at a northside business last Saturday morning.  City police say they were called to the scene about 8:45 a.m., and found 24 year-old Justice McBride, who was sought on multiple city court arrest warrants.  Officers took McBride into custody on several charges... including second-degree burglary... two counts of petty larceny... and on a Felony domestic violence warrant.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Jamestown man arrested following Friday night domestic incident...
A city man has been arrested on a pair of charges following a domestic incident on Jamestown's northside.  City police were called to the scene just after 7:30 p.m. last Friday... and located the suspect, Michael Connolly.  Officers say their investigation found that Connolly had damaged property belonging to the victim during the dispute.  They also accuse him of violating a valid "Refrain From Order of Protection."  Connolly was taken into custody without incident on one count of fourthd-degree criminal mischief... and, second-degree criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Pair of Ohio women arrested in Celoron on federal drug charges during traffic stop...
Two Ohio women have been arrested -- one on federal drug-related charges -- for allegedly trafficking large amounts of methamphetamine in the Jamestown-area the past three-years.  Sheriff's officers say their Narcotics Investigators assisted the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency in arresting 46 year-old Leslie Carnes... and, 26 year-old Celina Serva... both of Akron, Ohio... during a traffic stop on Boulevard Avenue in Celoron about 7:30 p.m. Thursday.  Investigators say they were assisted by Jamestown police in making the stop... which resulted in them finding more than 2-pounds of meth inside the vehicle.  Deputies say the DEA obtained a search warrant for the car.  They charged Serva with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.... and, she'll be arraigned in federal court in Buffalo today.  They add that Carnes was charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, issued an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court.  If you have any information on suspicious or drug-related activity... call the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line at 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.  In Jamestown call the JPD Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

Jamestown pair injured in Single Car accident in town of Chautauqua...
Two people from Jamestown have been hurt in a one-car crash on the Stockton-Hartfield Road in the town of Chautauqua.  Sheriff's Deputies say they were called to the scene shortly after 9 a.m. Thursday... and, that the two occupants were 53 year-old Thomas Badgley... and, 44 year-old Noel Luciano.  Both were taken by North Lake Fire rescuers to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania for non-life threatening injuries.  No charges have been filed... but, investigation is on-going.  In addition to the North Lake Fire Department... mutual aid was provided by County EMS... the county HAZMAT Team... and, the Sheriff's Office Accident Reconstruction Team.

Winds upwards of 59 mph cause damage in north county area...
Some wild weather caused damage throughout northern Chautauqua County on Wednesday.  Wind gusts toppled trees and downed power lines in Fredonia and Silver Creek during the late afternoon and early evening.  Photos on social media showed downed trees blocking Route 20 near Adams Road, while a video shared by the Silver Creek Fire Department showed an electrical fire damaging the roadway on Routes 5 and 20.  Earlier in the day, a lightning strike reportedly triggered a house fire in Ripley.  Meteorologist Liz Jurkowski with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says gusts nearly hit 60 mph.  She says once the rain came through, the winds tapered off, but, returned later in the day.  The highest reported wind gust in Chautauqua County, according to the National Weather Service, was 59 mph in Fredonia at 5:40 p.m. Wednesday.  Power was fully restored to National Grid and NYSEG customers in the area, according to the utilities' respective outage maps.

Homeless man in Jamestown arrested for alleged assault with can of beans...
A homeless man in Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly throwing a can of beans at another person... injuring them... on the city's eastside early Thursday morning.  Jamestown police were called to the location for a reported assault shortly after Midnight... and, learned that 32 year-old Mark Burch, Jr. had hurled the can for no apparent reason.  The victim was not seriously hurt.  Burch was located a short time later... and, arrested for second-degree assault... and, he was jailed pending arraignment.

Wendel voices several concerns over late, New York state budget...
Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel says he has several concerns regarding the late, New York State budget.  However... if it produces a better spending plan... then there may be some good that comes out of it.  The at least $250-billion spending plan is being held up due mainly to policy issues.  But... Wendel says he hopes it produces a better discovery law for local district attorneys because many prosecutions are either thrown out or not pursued because DAs don't have enough time to gather, and verify evidence and testimony.  He adds that he... and, other county executives... would like to see New York state be held to their standards of having local municipalities and schools have to cap their spending at a 2% increase.  Wendel believes that's part of the reason why so many unfunded mandates are pushed onto local governments.  He says that's also part of the response to people who say county government has expanded in recent years... while the county gets poorer.  He also says there needs to be a better way to get people off of public assistance.  Wendel made his comments for this coming weekend's Community Spotlight program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Four arrested following lengthy investigation into drug trafficking in Fredonia...
A eight-month investigation into the illegal trafficking of drugs in the north county has led to the arrests of four people on a slew of drug-related charges.  Sheriff's officers say their narcotics investigators... and, those from Dunkirk, and Jamestown Police Departments conducted a traffic stop and execution of a search warrant at 52 Maple Ave. in Fredonia Tuesday.  They say Dunkirk Police pulled over a car on Route 60 in the town of Dunkirk operated by 31 year-old Altarique Mitchell of Rochester.  A short time later police conducted the raid on Maple Avenue.  Inside the residence at the time was 33 year-old Arriell Catalano of Fredonia... and, 31 year-old Tynell Tolbert, and, 27 year-old Rojonique Walker -- both of Buffalo.  Investigators say the raid and the traffic stop led to the combined seizure of just over 280 grams of methamphetamine... 53.42-grams of crack cocaine, 7.53 grams of powder cocaine, 35 dosage units of Suboxone, a quantity of hydrocodone pills, scales and packaging material for the distribution of narcotics, and just over $5,700 in cash.  All four suspects are charged with second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Walker was also sought on arrest warrants out of the  Cheektowaga and Depew Police Departments.  All four suspects were taken to the County Jail pending centralized arraignment. 

Homeless man arrested in Jamestown for allegedly assaulting victim with can of beans...
A homeless man in Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly throwing a can of beans at another person... injuring them... on the city's eastside early this morning.  Jamestown police were called to the location for a reported assault shortly after Midnight... and, learned that 32 year-old Mark Burch, Junior had hurled the can for no apparent reason.  The victim was not seriously hurt.  Burch was located a short time later... and, arrested for second-degree assault... and, he was jailed pending arraignment.

Investigation into fire at condemned home on Forest Avenue continues...
A condemned home on Jamestown's southside was heavily-damaged by fire early Tuesday evening... and, it remains under investigation.  In a media release... Fire Battalion Chief Ryan Roush says crews were called to the scene at 216 Forest Ave. just before 7 p.m. and there was heavy fire coming from the rear of the building when they arrived.  It took some time to bring the blaze under control because crews were unable to make an interior attack immediately.  An aerial truck was brought into pour water on the structure.  An off-duty shift was called in... and, firefighters were at the scene until about 12:30 a.m. Wednesday... and, no one was hurt. 

Wendel opposes early convict release from state prisons... calling it an admission by DOCCS that CO's aren't safe...
Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel is strongly opposing the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision’s decision to release convicted felons early into the community.  In a video statement Wednesday morning... Wendel called the move “shortsighted and dangerous."  He says the statement from DOCCS indicated that there needed to be more of a "balance" for prison and public safety.  Wendel says that verifies the fact that working conditions in the state prisons were "unsafe..." and he's urging Governor Hochul and state officials to reverse the decision and instead focus on long-term solutions.  He says that would include: reinstating wrongfully terminated corrections officers, repealing pro-criminal legislation like the HALT Act, and ensuring adequate staffing in correctional facilities.  The Albany Times Union reports the felons being considered for release have to be within 110-days of their parole... and, have housing established.  The working conditions were the main reason for the recent corrections officers strike that affected most Upstate prison facilities... including Lakeview and Collins locally.

Child Abuse Awareness Month in Chautauqua County kicks off with "Pinwheels for Prevention..."  
The number of cases of child abuse and neglect appear to be going down in Chautauqua County.  However the work of the county and local agencies is far from done.  That was the general theme of Wednesday's kick-off of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month at Jamestown City Hall.  Officials say it's a time when communities join to raise awareness and take action... and, this year's event is one of multiple events being held.  Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund welcomed attendees... and, says it's everyone's responsibility to make sure all children live in a loving and nurturing environment... and she says parents, neighbors, police and others need to keep an eye out to prevent harm "before it happens."  Also on hand to kick-off the "Pinwheels for Prevention" program was the county's director of Mental Hygiene and Social Services, Carmello Hernandez.  Hernandez says last year's event was about "if you see something... say something."  However... this year is about prevention.  The director of the Salvation Army of Jamestown's "ANEW" Center for single mothers and children... says everyone's efforts have helped to lower their numbers... compared to the rest of the state. 

Deponceau Retires from Lakewood-Busti PD...
The Lakewood-Busti Police Chief for nearly the past four years... has retired from the department after 21 years of service.  The department's Facebook page recent honored the career of Chief Christopher Deponceau... whose career began as a patrolman in 2004.  Department officials say... in 2013 he was promoted to night Sergeant, and in 2021, he was named as Police Chief. 

Four arrested on numerous drug-related charges following traffic stop, and raid in Dunkirk-Fredonia area...
A eight-month investigation into the illegal trafficking of drugs in the north county has led to the arrests of four people on a slew of drug-related charges.  Sheriff's officers say their narcotics investigators... and, those from Dunkirk, and Jamestown Police Departments conducted a traffic stop and execution of a search warrant at 52 Maple Ave. in Fredonia Tuesday.  They say Dunkirk Police pulled over a car on Route 60 in the town of Dunkirk operated by 31 year-old Altarique Mitchell of Rochester.  A short time later police conducted the raid on Maple Avenue.  Inside the residence at the time... was of the search was 33 year-old Arriell Catalano... and, 31 year-old Tynell Tolbert, and, 27 year-old Rojonique Walker -- both of Buffalo.  Investigators say the raid and the traffic stop led to the combined seizure of just over 280 grams of methamphetamine, 53.42-grams of crack cocaine, 7.53 grams of powder cocaine, 35 dosage units of Suboxone, a quantity of hydrocodone pills, scales and packaging material for the distribution of narcotics, and just over $5,700 in cash.  All four suspects are charged with second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... seventh-degree criminal possession... and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Walker was also sought on arrest warrants out of the  Cheektowaga and Depew Police Departments.  All four suspects were taken to the County Jail pending centralized arraignment.

City woman arrested for causing disturbance inside Jamestown school...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested after becoming disorderly and hitting a school resource officer in the Jamestown Public Schools Monday.  City police were called to the unidentified school building about 8:20 a.m. to remove 33 year-old Alyssa Payne... who was threatening staff in a student-populated area when they arrived.  Officers told Payne she needed to leave... but, she refused and subjected multiple students -- including her own child -- to her outburst.  A School security officer then began to escort Payne out when she began to push and punch the officer.  When told she was being arrested... she began pushing and pulling away from police.  Payne was finally taken into custody on charges of second-degree harassment, resisting arrest, third-degree criminal trespass... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  As per bail reform... she was arraigned and released with appearance tickets for city court.

City man faces drunk driving charge following two-car crash...
A Jamestown man faces a drunk driving charge following an early morning accident Monday on the city's northside.  Jamestown police say they responded to the location just before 3 a.m., and, were told en route that one of the vehicles had left the scene.  Officers say they spotted the car a short time later... and, stopped it in the area of Lincoln and East Fifth Streets.  They determined that 23 year-old Dalton Kopp was driving while intoxicated... and, he was taken to the city jail without incident.  Kopp was later found with a blood alcohol content almost twice the legal limit... and, he was charged with DWI... aggravated unauthorized operation... leaving the scene of a property damage accident... consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle... and, other violations.  Kopp was released with appearance tickets for city court.

Molitor says only one of 11 budget bills have been adopted in state Assembly...
The midnight deadline Tuesday for New York State's budget has passed without a deal in place... and, talks in Albany have remain stalled.  That from State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor... says only one of the 11 bills that comprise the spending plan had been finished at that time.  That is the debt service bill... which allows the state to pay it's bills, and creditors.  Molitor says it'll be a lengthy process before the remaining 10 budget bills are completed.  The Westfield Republican says one of the reasons is because of policy that Democratic lawmakers "sneak" into the budget... including things like bail reform.  Some of the sticking points in negotiations include changes to the state's discovery law and extending the time period that someone with a serious mental health issue can be held for observation.

Schumer says Trump tariffs wlll be problematic for Upstate NY...
President Donald Trump's proposed "tsunami" of tariffs will raise the cost of "everyday goods" for upstate New Yorker's by as much as $6,500 a year.  That from U.S. Senator Charles Schumer during a Tuesday video press conference... and, Monday on the floor of the Senate.  The New York Democrat says the tariffs could also hurt small businesses... kill jobs... and, damage upstate New York's vital tourism industry.  Trump has called it "Liberation Day..." but, Schumer calls that a contradiction because on the one hand, he says it's going to bring more jobs to the U.S., but, his economic advisor says it's going to bring "trillions of dollars" in new revenues.  As for what the tariffs will look like... Schumer... who is Senate Minority Leader... says early returns aren't looking too good.  He says Trump's poll numbers on the economy are not looking good... and, the stock market has been in negative territory the past several weeks.  Schumer says a New York Times analysis shows that nearly 160,000 jobs in the upstate region could be impacted... and just over 30,000 of those are in Western New York.

Jamestown man convicted of rape and criminal sex act resentenced in County Court... 
A city man convicted of first-degree rape five years ago has now been resentenced in Chautauqua County Court to 18 years in prison and 25-years post-release supervision.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt says County Court Judge David Foley Monday handed down the sentence to 40 year-old Dennis Park.  Schmidt says Park also received an 18 year sentence... and, 25 years post-release supervision for his conviction for first-degree criminal sex act.  He says both sentences will be served concurrently.  Schmidt says Park was previously sentenced on the two charges in March 2020... but, the state Appellate Division ruled that the sentence was illegal, and ordered it to be returned to Chautauqua County Court in November of last year.  Schmidt says Park had the option to be resentenced or withdraw his plea... and, he chose to be resentenced.  The original incident occurred in August 2018 and the investigation was handled by Jamestown Police.

Rolison to spend another 2-to-4 years in State Prison for possessing prison contraband... 
The Jamestown man sentenced to up to 40 years in prison for the motor vehicle deaths of a city teen... and, a woman in the town of Arkwright will spend another 2 to 4 years for promoting prison contraband.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that 61 year-old Randall Rolison was sentenced Monday on his conviction for first-degree promoting prison contraband -- a Felony -- to spend the additional term consecutively to the lengthy prison sentences handed down just over a year ago in County Court.  Schmidt says Rolison was sentenced to the combined prison term for his second-degre manslaughter conviction for the hit and run death of 15-year-old Lexi Hughan.  He also was sentenced for aggravated vehicular homicide for the December 2022 car accident when his vehicle broadsided a pick-up truck driven by Gary Kraemer that killed his wife, Linda, and severely injured him.  In both incidents... the D.A. says Rolison was under the influence of methamphetamine.  In March of last year... Rolison was sentenced in county court... but, before he was transferred to a state facility... corrections officers at the County jail found him in possession of methamphetamine following a jail visit, leading to this most recent conviction.  “I can’t think of a more horrendous example of how illegal drugs like meth have destroyed innocent lives and caused needless and profound suffering for all of us here in the County.  It defies common sense to think that Mr. Rolison was on meth when he killed poor Lexi, chose to use meth again later that same year when he killed Mrs. Kraemer, and turned to meth again while in our jail before leaving for state prison."

City Council rejects reallocating $640,000 in HOME funding for Gateway Lofts project...
The Jamestown City Council has rejected the reallocation of $640,000 for remediation work at the site of the proposed Gateway Lofts housing project on Water Street.  However... it's believed that the estimated $77-million project will be able to move forward with money from confirmed investors.  The project was debated again at last night's Council voting session prior to lawmakers rejecting the move, 5-to-4.  Housing Committee Chairman Bill Reynolds says he'd rather see that money be used to improve existing housing... because since the investors have a lot of money for upfront costs, they don't need that funding.  Councilwoman Regina Brackman pointed out that City Development Director Crystal Surdyk will have to move quickly on finding somewhere else to use that HOME Program money... but, she also hoped to see it used to improve the city's housing stock.  Council President Tony Dolce voted for the reallocation and expressed similar feelings, in hoping the money can be used for existing housing improvements.  The city's Department of Development had packaged the money from the past five year's remaining HOME Program funding to support the project.  Surdyk says it will be difficult to find another use for that funding because the federal government puts very tight restrictions on it... and, right now... they don't have a project for that amount of money.

Debate fairly split among those favoring Gateway Lofts funding vs. those against it...
Prior to last night's vote on the funding for the Gateway Lofts project... there were several comments made during a public hearing... and, more during the later voting session.  Former City Councilman Tom Nelson... who now represents that area on the county legislature... says he was also on the city's Planning Commission when the project was first proposed several years ago.  He urged it's passage... says he's seen the project "really evolve from what was an okay project to one a better, and better project."  Nelson feels it's something the city "needs."  A number of people spoke against the project... and, one... Jamestown Police Lieutenant Sam Piazza... felt city police would be overwhelmed by the number of calls there and elsewhere in the city.  Piazza... who is also president of the policeman's union... says JPD doesn't have enough officers as it is.  The man heading up the project for Southern Tier Environment's for Living... Steve Ald... reiterated that the facility would have "24/7" security with a front desk staffed 24-hours each day with four-and-a-half people.  However... Piazza said -- if their security is unable to handle it... JPD would be called.