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News and Updates

From the Sheriff’s Office

For the Media

 

From the Sheriff’s Office

K-9 Unit Receives Five New Canines

January 10, 2006

Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn today announced the addition of five new canines to the Sheriff’s K-9 Unit, made possible by the Sheriff’s Foundation. “With this purchase the Sheriff’s Foundation will support our efforts to provide exemplary K-9 services to the residents of Monroe County and promote officer safety for the Sheriff’s Office and all of the local police agencies,” said Sheriff O’Flynn. “This is one of many contributions made by the Foundation that have had direct impact on the quality of service our deputies are able provide.”

The Sheriff’s Foundation provided $35,000 for the purchase of five canines and related equipment. “The Foundation is always happy to support the Sheriff’s Office in any way possible that directly impacts the community,” said John Riedman, President of the Sheriff’s Foundation.

The canines were purchased from Amsel Training Kennels L.L.C., Akron, NY and were imported from Czechoslovakia. The Czech shepherd breed is preferred because of their sociability and ability to track and detect narcotics.

The new canines – Odie, Aron, Czar, Frankie and Mic, recently began their 14-weeks of basic training. Three of the dogs will receive an additional 6-weeks of nitrate training and two dogs will receive 6-weeks of specialized narcotics training.

 

Sheriff's Office Loses One Of Its Own - December 3, 2005

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 4, 2005

On December 3, 2005, at 8:41 PM, Deputy Galen J. Herren was on his way to the Zone B substation to begin work. Herren was traveling on Route 590 south near the Monroe Avenue exit when he was struck head on by a vehicle traveling the wrong way. Jayne Miner, 36, of 1660 Heath Markham Road, Honeoye Falls, NY, was driving her vehicle northbound on Route 590 south. Both Deputy Herren and Miner were pronounced dead at the scene.

The New York State Police and the Monroe County Sheriff's Office are investigating the crash.

Deputy Herren was 39 years of age. He was not married and did not have any children.

Deputy Herren began working for the Sheriff’s Office on August 15, 2005, transferring from the NYS Park Police. Herren Graduated the NYSPP Academy in June of 2002, where he was named "Session Leader" and received the physical fitness award for his academy session. Officer Herren was highly trained with the NYSPP. He was a firearms instructor, defensive tactics instructor, background investigator, breath test operator, Young Boater & Snow mobile instructor and a lead coordinator for numerous volunteer programs.

In 2003 Major David Page of the NYSPP recognized Herren for his commendable efforts in locating the out of town family of a drowned boy and then making the death notify to the family and transporting them to the scene. Herren remained on-scene, acting as a professional and compassionate point of contact for the family of the child who had drowned in Watkins Glenn State Park. This act moved the family to submit a card to the NYSPP on behalf of Herren, thanking him for his actions.

Prior to working for the NYSPP, Herren worked as a Public Safety Officer for Rochester General Hospital.

While working for the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Herren demonstrated a high level of competence and commitmen.

 

Dale Trimmer Arrested In Internet Sting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 18, 2005

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office announces the arrest of Dale Trimmer, DOB 11-18-74, of 227 W. Commercial Street, East Rochester, NY, on one count of Disseminating Indecent Material to a Minor in the First Degree, a felony. Trimmer was arrested on Thursday afternoon and arraigned in Chili Town Court. Trimmer was remanded to the Monroe County Jail on $5,000 cash bail

Trimmer used the Internet to entice a 14-year-old female to meet him at an area mall for the purpose of engaging in sex at a different location.

During a previous on-line conversation between an undercover deputy and Trimmer, the deputy agreed to meet with Trimmer at the mall.

Dale Trimmer was a volunteer with the East Rochester Ambulance Corp.

 

Michael Develder Arrested For Murder After 4-hour Standoff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 17, 2005

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Rochester Police Department announces the arrest of Michael L. DeVelder, 51, of 1370 Paul Road, Chil, NY.

On Thursday, November 17, 2005, shortly after 9:00 AM, DeVelder shot and killed Lucy Palmer, 76, in her home at 146 Attridge Road, Chili, NY. Develder then shot Holly Palmer, 36, of the same address, wounding her in the leg.

DeVelder fled the scene in a maroon 1999 GMC Sierra, bearing NY license plate #50950JC. The vehicle information was broadcast and released to the media.

At approximately 1:30 PM, a Rochester Police Department officer located DeVelder at 200 Breck Street in the City.

DeVelder was apprehended after a four-hour standoff.

 

Sheriff's Office Operation SAFE CHILD

January 29 , 2005

OPERATION SAFE CHILD SCHEDULED EVENTS:

Saturday, February 18, 2006, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Total Sport Experience, 880 Elmgrove Road, Gates, NY, 14624.

Wednesday, February 22, 2006, Department of Motor Vehicles (Ridgecrest Plaza), 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, 1940 West Ridge Road, Greece, NY, 14626.

Saturday, March 11, 2006, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Wal-Mart, 2150 Chili Avenue, Gates, NY, 14624.

Saturday, March 25, 2006, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monroe County Clerk's Office, 39 West Main Street, Rochester, NY, 14614.

On October 15, 2005, the Monroe County Sheriff's Office joined the Governor's state-wide initiative - Operation SAFE CHILD. The program provides photo ID cards that contain fingerprint and biographical data to individuals under the age of 18.

The goal of this program is to record and store the fingerprints, basic biographical information and photographs of children who are not missing -- information critical to expediting the return of a missing child. Operation SAFE CHILD will be available to interested parents and families statewide and is entirely voluntary. The storage of information will require the written consent of a parent or legal guardian. The information gathered will be digitally recorded and stored at a separate database at New York State Department Of Criminal Justice Services. In the event DCJS receives a missing child report, the fingerprints of that child will be included in a special search file and compared against all incoming fingerprints submitted to DCJS. Once included in the database, parents or lawful guardians can request that information be purged at any time and, after a missing child turns 18, the fingerprints will be purged from the database.

Beginning October 18, 2005, the Sheriff's Office beganl processing CHILD SAFE photo ID's at 30 West Broad Street, Rochester, NY 14614 (4th floor) map-it.. Appointments may be during the following times:

  • Tuesday 9:00 - 11:00 AM
  • Wednesday 1:00 - 3:00 PM
  • Thursday 9:00 - 11:00 AM

TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT OR FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 753-4759.

Operation SAFE CHILD will be held at locations throughout Monroe County (i.e. shopping malls, special events, etc.). As these venues are scheduled, information will be made available on this page. Please check periodically for updates.

 

Thomas Kelly Jr. Arrested For Murder - August 1, 2005

August 1, 2005

On Sunday, July 31, 2005, at 7:18 PM, Sheriff’s deputies responded to 163 Meadow Farms, Chili, for a call to check the welfare of an individual.

Deputies arrived at the residence to find Thomas Kelly Jr., DOB 2-10-68, of 163 Meadow Farms, exiting the residence with visible lacerations to his forearms. He was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital.

Inside the residence deputies found Melody L. Kelly, DOB 7-27-71, of 163 Meadow Farms, deceased in the basement. The Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to rule on the cause and time of death.

The Kelly’s two children, a four-year old boy and a two-year old girl, were not at the residence when deputies arrived – they had been staying with a relative.

Thomas Kelly was arraigned in Riga Town Court and charged with Murder in the Second Degree. Kelly was remanded to the Monroe County Jail without bail and is scheduled to appear in Riga Town Court on August 5 at 1:00 PM.

 

Sheriff's Star Student Award Recipients

March 15, 2005

Picture of Star Student Award Winners.

Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn is proud to announce the recipients of the Sheriff's Star Student Award. Of the many qualified nominations that were received, the students that were ultimately selected distinguished themselves through exemplary behavior that embodies the core values of the Sheriff's Office. We commend them on their achievement.

Each student received a $100 check from the Sheriff's Foundation and an Apple ipod from Rnews. Congratulations to the Sheriff's Star Students on their achievement.

Pictured with Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn, the recipients of the March 15, 2005 Sheriff's Star Student Award (From left to right) Dana Barrett (Gates-Chili H.S.), Michael Brado (Spencerport H.S.), Audrey Mangan (Honeoye Falls-Lima H.S.) and Brenda Bryant (Pittsford Sutherland H.S.)

 

Monroe Community College Students Honored

January 28, 2005

Picture of MCC Students being honored.

Monroe Community College Criminal Justice students were honored during a cermony at the Watts Conference Center.

The folowing students received awards: Nancy Robak was awarded the Sergeant Robert Skelton Memorial Scholarship, Bryan Kessler was awarded the Jeannette Fuino Memorial Scholarship and Alexandria Harding was awarded the J. Edgar Hoover Memorial Scholarship.

Photographed left to right: Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn, Alexandria Harding, Bryan Kessler and MCC Vice President of Academic Services, Dr. Janet Glocker.

 

Arrests In RIT Shootings - October 13, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 13, 2004

Today, Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn announced the arrest of Dwight D. Rutley and Travis L. Rutley for their part in the October 4th robbery and shootings that occurred on the RIT campus in the Crossroads Café.

Dwight D. Rutley, DOB 3/31/74 of 46 Shelter Street and Travis L. Rutley, DOB 6/27/84 of 476 Flint Street, have both been charged with Robbery and Assault in the 1st degree and were remanded to the Monroe County Jail in lieu of $350,000 cash bail or $500,000 secured bond.

Dwight Rutley was employed at the college by a temporary employment agency as a restaurant worker at the Crossroads Café.

“I would like to commend RIT President Albert Simone and the Campus Safety staff for their assistance throughout this investigation”, said Sheriff O’Flynn. “It is also important to note the prompt resolution of this tragic event by our investigative staff”.

This investigation is continuing and we anticipate making further arrests.

 

Awards Luncheon

October 6

The 2nd Annual Sheriff's Awards Luncheon was held on October 6 at The Party House in the Town of Chili.

Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn recognized the award recipients during a ceremony that was emceed by Kevin Doran of WROC-TV.

    Sheriff's Letter Award Deputy Paul Doser -Jail Bureau Deputy Patricio Rojas -Police Bureau Marty Ward -Rural Metro Ambulance Civilian Service Award Afton Minavio Maureen Minavio Erin Minavio Andrew P. Meloni Award Investigator Larry Crawford -Retired Distinguished Service Medal Deputy Gary Pullen -Jail Bureau Deputy Jeffrey Stacy -Jail Bureau Deputy Katie Belaskas -Court Security Meritorious Conduct Award Lieutenant Al Schulze -Police Bureau Sergeant Craig Backus -Police Bureau Deputy Tom Burns -Police Bureau Deputy Mark Mori -Police Bureau Deputy Michael Rieger -Police Bureau Special Presentation Lieutenant Gordon Whitehair -Gates Police Department
 

Arrest In Pittsford Village Estates Homicide

October 24, 2004

Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn today announced the arrest of Drue Edward Jarvis, 34, of 72 Middlesex Road, Rochester, NY, for the brutal beating and stabbing death of 86 year-old Vivian Chapman in her residence at 2 Colonial Parkway in the Pittsford Village Estates, Pittsford, NY.

Drue Edward Jarvis was arrested late Thursday evening and later arraigned in Pittsford Town Court. Jarvis has been charged with felony intentional murder in the first degree and has been remanded to the Monroe County Jail without bail. The Pittsford Village Estates employed Jarvis in the capacity of a maintenance worker.

Deputies responded to 2 Colonial Parkway on Wednesday, September 22 at 8:09 p.m. for the report of an unresponsive person. They found the victim, Vivian Chapman, at the scene. She was later pronounced dead.

“The fact that an 86 year-old elderly woman was attacked in such a vicious manner is beyond my comprehension”, said Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn.

 

Promotional Ceremony

September 13, 2004

Picture of officers being promoted.

A promotional ceremony was held at the Strong Museum on September 13th. Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn swore in the following personnel during the ceremony:

  • Investigator-Sergeant Gary Caiola was promoted to Chief Deputy
  • Lieutenant Samuel Farina, Jr. was promoted to Commander
  • Sergeant Andrew Forsythe was promoted to Lieutenant
  • Deputy Todd Brinkerhoff was promoted to Sergeant
  • Deputy Paul Dano was promoted to Sergeant

Pictured left to right: Sergeant Paul Dano, Chief Deputy Gary Caiola, Commander Samuel Farina, Jr., Lieutenant Andrew Forsythe and Sergeant Todd Brinkerhoff.

 

2004 Sheriff's Star Student Award Recipients

July 9, 2004

Picture of recipients.

Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn is proud to announce the recipients of the Sheriff's Star Student Award. Of the many qualified nominations that were received, the students that were ultimately selected distinguished themselves through exemplary behavior that embodies the core values of the Sheriff's Office. We commend them on their achievement.

Each student received a $100 check from the Sheriff's Foundation and a laptop computer from the Auto Depot.

Pictured with Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn, the recipients of the 2004 Sheriff's Star Student Award (From left to right) Lisa Feuerstein, Matthew Moran and Kristin Deiure.

 

SHERIFF O'FLYNN REVEALS 2003 CRIME STATISTICS

May 28, 2004

Deputies responded to well over 200,000 calls for service during 2003 and over 12,000 crimes were reported.

The overall crime rate for 2003 was down slightly. While reported Part I crimes were slightly elevated, Part II crimes decreased.

The Sheriff's Office overall crime clearance rate of 53% remains well above the national average of 24%.

 

Hilton Senior Citizen Police Academy Graduation Ceremony

May 27

Picture of Sheriff O'Flynn hands a graduate a certificate during a ceremony honoring those who participated in Senior Academy #9.

On Thursday, May 27, Seniors who took part in the Sheriff's Office Senior Citizens Police Academy were recognized during a ceremony that took place at the Hilton Community Center.

Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn, Undersheriff Daniel Greene, Zone C Captain Michael Nyhan, Sergeant Bob Clar and deputies Charles Campanella, Tom Mancarella, Dan Lyon and Mark Wiest recognized the seniors for their achievement.

The 8-week academy is designed to familiarize the senior citizens of our community with the Office of Sheriff. During the course of the academy, seniors toured the Hall Of Justice, Zone C substation, Public Safety Training Facility, and viewed the Specialized Units demonstration where they were introduced to members of the Hazardous Device Squad (HDS), K-9, Hostage Recovery Team (HRT), SWAT, Mounted Unit and SCUBA unit. The seniors had an up close look at the vehicles and equipment used by each unit that was represented.

 

Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn kicks off Sheriff's Star Student Award program.

March 19, 2004

Picture of Sheriff O'Flynn.

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office will honor Middle and High School students from local school districts on a quarterly basis that distinguish themselves through exemplary behavior and embody the core values of the Sheriff's Office. Selections will be conducted through a review process coordinated by Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn. If you are aware of a student whose positive accomplishments, actions or efforts deserve recognition, please complete a nomination form.

Please complete the Nomination Form and mail it to the following address. You may also e-mail the completed nomination form as an attachment to the following address.

The 2004 Recipients

The Sheriff's Office is now accepting nominations for the 2004-2005 school year.

For email nominations, please include the following: The student's name, address and grade level, parent's name and phone number, the name of the school, the nominators name, address, phone number and relationship to the nominee, and a brief explanation for nominating the student. (Consider instances of role modeling, good samaritan, community service, academic efforts, positive contributions to the school envirorment and community...etc.)

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For the Media

Rush Senior Citizen Police Academy Graduation

Thursday, November 20, 2003

Picture of graduating class.

WHAT: A graduation ceremony for Senior Citizen Police Academy #7. Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn will congratulate the seniors for completing the 8-week academy.

WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2003 at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Rush Fire Department, 1971 Rush Mendon Rd.

Contact: Deputy Helfer
Pager: 529-1184

 

Missing Person

Monday, September 9, 2003

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in locating a Mariya Kuselycho. She is an elderly woman, 82 years of age, who suffers from alzheimers disease. She was last seen, Tuesday, September 8th around 2:00 p.m. in the vicinity of Route 250 and Penfield Center Road in the Town of Penfield.

Miss Kuselychko is a white female with a light complexion, gray hair. She is 5' 4" tall, 110 pounds, and walks hunched over. She was wearing a light blue blazer, a brown striped shirt, a blue skirt with pink flowers on it, and black slippers.

Miss Kuselychko does not speak english and has not taken her medication since early Tuesday morning. Please call 911 if you have any information as to her whereabouts.

Contact: Deputy Helfer
Pager: 529-1184

Located September 10, 2003.

 

On Monday, July 14 at 1201 a.m., Monroe County sheriff's deputies were dispatched to 2 Pennicott Circle, Penfield after receiving a 911 call. When deputies arrived, they found Tabatha Bryant murdered. Further investigation revealed she had been both shot and stabbed.

Saturday, August 2, 2003

After an intense and around the clock investigation, the Monroe County Sheriff's Office has arrested the following three individuals:

  • Kevin C. Bryant, 45 years of age, of Penfield, NY, the husband of Tabatha Bryant, has been charged with Murder 2nd Degree.
  • Cyril Winebrenner, 22 years of age, of Osceola, Iowa, the half brother of Tabatha Bryant, has been charged with Murder 2nd Degree.
  • Cassidy A. Green, 21 years of age, of Bloomfield, NY, the girlfriend of Cyril Winebrenner, has been charged with Manslaughter 1st and 2 counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance 3rd, (B felonies).

This investigation spanned several states and involved many law enforcement agencies: the Pennsylvania State Police, Osceola Sheriff's Office, Livingston County Sheriff's Office, Ontario County Sheriff's Office and the Rochester Police Department. The Monroe County District Attorneys Office and Medical Examiner's Office assisted in an integral way throughout the investigation.

 

Arrest made in Parma Stabbing

Monday, May 26, 2003

Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn announces the arrest of:

Richard Vincent Bedford
636 Campbell Street, Rochester
Date of Birth: 08/29/1984

for the stabbing death of Gregory Crawford (date of birth 02/10/1986) of 1472 Rideway Avenue in the town of Greece. Richard Bedford has been charged with Murder in the Second Degree stemming from an altercation that occurred in the roadway of the 1100 block of Manitou Road in the town of Parma on May 25, 2003.

Bedford was arraigned before a Parma Town Justice and remanded to the Monroe County Jail where he is being held without bail pending a preliminary hearing scheduled for May 30, 2003 at 5:30pm at the Parma Town Justice Court.

 

SHERIFF O'FLYNN URGES OBSERVANCE OF 23RD ANNUAL CRIME VICTIMS RIGHTS WEEK

Sunday, April 6, 2003

During the week of April 6th through the 12th, 2003, crime victims, service providers, criminal and juvenile justice professionals, and community volunteers have joined together to commemorate the 23rd Anniversary of National crime Victims' Rights Week. The national theme, "Victims' Rights: Fulfill the Promise," emphasizes our promise to victims to treat them with dignity and compassion and identify and meet their most important needs.

"While the affects of crime can be devastating for both the victim and their family, criminal acts impact the entire community", said Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn. "For too long the victim had been the forgotten component in the criminal justice system, -now that is all changing with efforts like this."

In a report published by The National Center for Victims of Crime, teenagers are twice as likely as any other group to be victims of violent crime, and one in five teenagers report being the victim of a violent crime. "We recognize the importance of education in protecting our children from acts of violence", said Sheriff O'Flynn. "The Sheriff's Office continues to focus on our youth through our expanded DARE program, crime prevention officers and programs, and Community Services Unit which provides comprehensive Victim Assistance Programing."

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office encourages you to attend the Crime Victims' Rights March on April 12, 2003 at 9:30 a.m. The march will begin at 244 S. Plymouth Avenue and end at the Crime Victims' Memorial in Highland Park. For further information, contact: 428-5704

 

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office has recognized the seriousness of identity theft and the problems that may occur.

Friday, March 28, 2003

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office has recognized the seriousness of identity theft and the problems that may occur. The resulting effects of identity theft on your credit and finances can be devastating and take quite some time to rectify. "Computer crime and identity theft are some of the most rapidly growing issues facing law enforcement", said Sheriff O'Flynn. The following information will help you recognize how ID theft occurs, various warning signs and steps you can take to protect yourself.

The Sheriff's Office has identified several common warning signs that ID theft may have occurred: If you have received a notice of collection or unfamiliar bill, If you have not received your regular bills, If you have been denied credit or have inaccuracies on your credit report. These signs are indicative of ID theft and you may want to investigate and substantiate the information.

There are many precautions you can take to reduce your risk of ID theft. When possible, use your driver license ID number in place of your social security number. When you give out personal information, ask questions as to why certain information is needed and for what purpose it will be used. Request the "non-sharing" of information. Passwords or Personal Identification Numbers (PINS) should be unique. Shred documents containing personal information when discarding. Check phone solicitors with the Consumer Protection Board. Mail check payments without telephone number (NYS law prohibits requiring personal phone number on checks). Use only secure and verified internet sites when giving out personal information. Close any unused credit card accounts. Finally, check your credit report frequently for inaccuracies and irregularities.

"You cannot be too cautious when releasing personal information such as your social security number, passwords and PINS," said Sheriff O'Flynn. Your first line of defense is this 'private information' governing access."

There is a nominal cost for a copy of your credit report. You may receive a free copy if denied credit or you have been victimized (per federal law). For further information contact the Sheriff's Office Community Services Unit at 428-5510. If you are a victim call 911.

  • Equifax
    1-800-685-1111
    www.equifax.com
  • Experian
    1-800-888-4213
    www.experian.com
  • Transunion
    1-800-888-4213
    www.transunion.com
 

SHERIFF O'FLYNN ANNOUNCES LOCAL CRIME STATS, OVERALL CRIME DOWN 6.2%

Thursday, March 13, 2003

Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn today announced that overall crime is down 6.2%. This includes serious offenses that are down 5.5% and lesser offenses that have decreased by 6.75%. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office received 203,977 calls for service, an increase of 11% from 2001.

"I would like to commend our staff on an incredible rate of crime clearances. Their dedication, commitment and professionalism is evident in their work product and the coordination with the other local law enforcement agencies," said Sheriff O'Flynn. "I would also like to thank the community for their support and willingness to get involved." The Sheriff's Office crime clearance rate of 54% was more than twice the national average.

Part I crimes, which include murder, rape, felony assault and robberies, were collectively down 5.5%. Specifically, assaults were down 17.5% during 2002 while Larcenies were down 6.8% and stolen vehicles were down 9.6%.

Part II crimes including sex offenses, kidnapping and forgery collectively were down 6.75%. The number of people killed in vehicular collisions remained the same for 2002, at 26. Of the 26 vehicular fatalities, 5 were alcohol related. Larcenies from vehicles were down 12.5% from 2001.

The number of deer involved in motor vehicle accidents reported to the MCSO decreased by 29.8% during 2002.

 

First Clergy Academy Graduates

Thursday, March 6, 2003

On January 16, 2003, The Monroe County Sheriff's Office began a new initiative introducing the first Clergy Police Academy. The academy, designed to extend the Office's existing philosophy of community policing, seeks to reach out to those who have contact with various segments of today's diverse demographic makeup. Clergy can share with their parishioners the many programs and services the Sheriff's Office has available to all residents. A total of 15 clergy members participated in the 8 week program which included the following:

  • Tours of the Public Safety Training Center, Emergency Communications Department, Zone A, Downtown Jail and Hall of Justice.
  • Defensive tactics demonstration and a firearms simulation with clergy participation.
  • Viewed a display of the following specialized units; SCUBA, SWAT, K-9 with dog "Ricky", Mounted, STAR, Snowmobile and Technical Services.
 

Guarding Against Thefts From Vehicles

March 5, 2003

While overall thefts from vehicles have steadily decreased in number, vigilance is required to continue the current trend. The Sheriff's Office has responded to a significant number of cases where wallets and purses have been stolen from parked vehicles. In some incidents, the victim made efforts to conceal their wallet or purse within the vehicle, placing them in the glove box or under the seat. Unfortunately, the criminal located the wallet and purse by gaining entry into the vehicle by breaking a window or entering through an unlocked door. "It's important to be aware of your surroundings," said Sheriff O'Flynn, "When exiting your vehicle, if you notice anyone is paying particular attention to you or your vehicle and you feel uncomfortable, leave the area and call 911."

Other purse and wallet thefts have occurred when these items were left unattended in a shopping cart while the victim was shopping. In such cases, the victim's attention was directed towards other things, the items were stolen and the victim never realized what had occurred. Sometimes criminals act alone. In other cases the criminal will work in concert with other individuals. One may divert the attention of the victim away from their wallet or purse while the other criminal commits the theft. It's not always a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time but criminals often look for a specific situation to exist before perpetrating their crime.

In cases involving the theft of wallets and purses from vehicles or shopping carts, the items stolen typically include; credit cards, checkbooks, and other personal identification information. Criminals use these stolen credit cards or checks to make fraudulent transactions at various businesses before the victim is aware or reports the items stolen. In some cases, the crime of Identity Theft occurs when the criminal uses these stolen items to commit crimes of fraud and larceny by representing him or herself using the victim's name. Often these crimes go unnoticed until the victim learns that unauthorized transactions have occurred to their accounts or fictitious accounts were created in their name. The consequences of such a crime may have a devastating effect on the victim. The victim may be in the position of having to defend their name from creditors and financial institutions that assume the transactions are legitimately theirs. Additionally, the victim will have to replace all of their identification, bankcards and any other personal identification items that were stolen.

To help protect you from becoming a victim, the Sheriff's Office suggests the following:

  • Whenever possible, do not leave your purse or wallet in a parked vehicle. If you must leave it in the vehicle, secure it in the trunk or a locked storage compartment. Be aware that some vehicles have trunk release buttons that could be used by the criminal to gain access to these areas.
  • Lock your unattended vehicle.
  • While in a public place keep your purse or wallet in your immediate possession. It only takes a matter of seconds for a criminal to lift these items from a shopping cart or counter.
  • Be attentive to your surroundings and be aware that there are criminals looking for the opportunity to steal your wallets, purses, credit cards and even your identity.
 

National Child Passenger Safety Week Feb 9-15

February 10, 2003

The week of February 9 - 15, 2003 is recognized as National Child Passenger Safety week. Child Passenger Safety Week is an intensive effort to get parents and caregivers to use child safety and booster seats. Children who are not buckled up are three times more likely to suffer a significant injury in a crash than children who are buckled up. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office recognizes the importance of this week in drawing attention to the safety concerns of children in vehicles.

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office Community Services Unit provides child safety seat checkpoints throughout the year. Deputies, who are certified child safety seat technicians, check child car seats for proper installation and various other safety concerns. "The statistics are staggering" said Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn. "Eighty-two percent of child car seats are misused in some way."

The three most common mistakes made with child safety seat installation are: 1) Not attaching the seat tightly to the car or truck; 2) Not fastening the harness tightly enough; and 3) Not using the chest clip or using it incorrectly.

The Community Services Unit of the Sheriff's Office will be conducting child seat safety checks on March 22, June 24, July 26, September 20 and November 22. To schedule an appointment call #428-5510. The vehicle, car seat and child should be brought to the checkpoint.

 

James Strassner Arrest

Tuesday, January 21, 2003

On January 18, 2003 Monroe County Sheriff's Deputies responded to 750 Martin Road, Hamlin to arrest James Strassner, a white male, D.O.B. 4/18/72 of the same address, on a charge of Criminal Contempt in the 1st degree.

Upon entering the residence and attempting to place Strassner under arrest, he became violent. Strassner bit Deputy Ponticello on his right bicept causing bruising and swelling. Eventually, Strassner was subdued and taken into custody. He was charged with felony assault and resisting arrest for his actions. Strassner was remanded to the Monroe County Jail in lieu of 25,000 cash/50,000 bond

 

Robert W. Corona Arrest

Tuesday, December 31, 2002

On December 17, 2002 members of the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Warrant Unit arrested Robert W. Corona, 34. Information was obtained that the subject was driving a vehicle reported stolen from California and was en route from Tenesssee to a former girlfriend's residence in Wheatland. It was further learned that Robert Corona was wanted by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office on a kidnapping warrant issued on December 12, 2002. The subject was observed in the Wheatland area on the evening of December 17th and led deputies on a low speed pursuit. He was eventually stopped on Summit Point Rd. in Henrietta.

Corona was charged as a fugitive from justice for the San Bernardino kidnapping warrant. He was further charged with criminal possession of stolen property 3rd (stolen truck), a violation of probation warrant from Brighton and numerous other traffic infractions. Corona was remanded to the Monroe County Jail without bail and an investigation continues as to Corona's crimes both in and out of State.

Contact: Deputy Helfer
Pager: 529-1184

 

Glen W. Feidner Arrest

Monday, December 23, 2002

On November 26, 2002, Glen W. Feidner, 41, of 795 County Road 28, Shortsville, New York was arrested by Monroe County Sheriff investigators and charged with grand larceny in the 2nd degree and falsifying business records in the 1st degree.

Feidner was employed by PAD Business Forms, 1555 E. Henrietta Road. Company owners there became suspicious of Feidner activities and filed a report with the Monroe County Sheriff Office's White Collar Crime Unit (WCCU). Following the units investigation, Feidner was charged for grand larceny and falsifying business records after approximately $300,000 was discovered missing.

Feidner was arraigned in Henrietta Town Court by Judge John Kopacki and remanded to the Monroe County Jail in lieu of $25,000 cash bail.

"I applaud the White Collar Crime Unit investigators for their hard work on this case," said Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn. "Typical of white collar crimes, discovery is dependent on meticulous attention to detail. The investigator in this case, Christopher Searchfield, demonstrated exceptional professionalism."

 

Community Wide Violence Reduction Initiative concludes in December

Wednesday, December 18, 2002

Beginning in October 2002, a joint effort between the Monroe County Sheriff's Department, Rochester Police Department and New York State Police was undertaken as part of a Community Wide Violence Reduction Initiative. This initiative exemplifies how various agencies can, and currently do, work together towards a common goal; Specifically, ridding the community of illegal weapons and drugs. "Residents of Monroe County can be proud of the effective working relationship between local agencies that already exists here", said Sheriff O'Flynn.

The following Sheriff's personnel were temporarily assigned to the initiative: Sgt. David Hawe, Deputies Scott Peters, Russell Reynolds, David Kron, Paul Dano, Michael Burnside, Richard Dalberth, Steve Peglow, Mark Mori and Noel Terwilliger.

In addition to patrol deputies, both the Warrant and Star Units provided valuable support in their respective areas of enforcement. Warrant Unit members: Sgt. Bill Sanborn, Deputies John Ott, John Messura, John Dimartino, Tony Albertelli, Joe Bates, Greg Woodworth, Rick Hobbins and Chris Shatzel, were part of the initiative. Star Unit members include: Sgt. Ronald Sheffer, Deputies David Nau, Todd Sutherland, Michael Abate, Robert Clancy, Timothy Lewis, Joseph Perrone, Leah Larocque, Greg Whelehan and Daniel Mesiti.

Rochester Police Chief Robert Duffy recognized all members of the Sheriff's Office who participated in the initiative during a Cermony of Appreciation on December 5, 2002. Sheriff O'Flynn, Undersheriff Greene, Chief Deputy Norquist and Major Flood were recognized as well.

 

Sheriff O'Flynn is proud to announce the promotions of the following members

Wednesday, November 27, 2002

The Monroe County Sheriff's Department is recognized as one of the finest in the nation.

Police Bureau

  • Sgt. Samuel Farina
    To the rank of Lieutenant
  • Sgt. Allen Schulze
    To the rank of Lieutenant
  • Dep. Robert Clar
    To the rank of Sergeant
  • Dep. Paul Delella
    To the rank of Sergeant
  • Dep. Michael Fowler
    To the rank of Sergeant
  • Dep. Jeffrey Wagner
    To the rank of Sergeant

Jail Bureau

  • Sgt. Alan Jolly
    To the rank of Lieutenant
  • Sgt. Phillip Prinzi
    To the rank of Lieutenant
  • Cpl. Thomas Zembiec
    To the rank of Sergeant
  • Cpl. Lisa Heaton
    To the rank of Sergeant
  • Dep. Michael Chambry
    To the rank of Corporal
  • Dep. Kelly Bye
    To the rank of Corporal

Court Security

  • Sgt. Donald Wilkins
    To the rank of Lieutenant
  • Dep. Kenneth Willis
    To the rank of Sergeant

The Swearing-in ceremony will be held on Wednesday, December 4, 2002 at 1400 hours at the Strong Museum located at one Manhattan Square. All are encouraged to attend.

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