City man arrested for assault and unlawful imprisonment following domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly assaulting... and, restraining another person during a domestic incident on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the scene about 12:30 a.m. Wednesday... and, made contact with 48 year-old Arthur Norene.  Officers say their investigation determined that Norene had assaulted the victim... then allegedly held them against their will.  In addition... police say they also found that the incident occurred while a valid order of protection had been issued to prevent Norene from making contact with the victim.  He was arrested without incident on one count each of third-degree assault... second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and, Aggravated criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Cordell receives 15 years in state prison after violating probation and trafficking drugs...
A Dunkirk man has been sentenced to 15 years in state prison following his conviction for violating his probation for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 29 year-old Dakota Cordell received the sentence Tuesday from County Court Judge David Foley following a probation hearing.  Schmidt says Cordell was convicted twice in separate narcotics investigations.  In September 2025... he says Cordell was put on a five year term of probation following six months of incarceration in the county jail.  In September of 2024... the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force and Fredonia police raided a home in the village of Fredonia... and, Cordell, and two other people were found in possession of a large quantity of fentanyl.  In May of last year... Cordell was offered a plea agreement to participate in "Interim Probation" for the chance to get a reduced sentence.  Before this sentenced could be imposed... Schmidt says Cordell was again arrested in June 2025 for possessing a large quantity of fentanyl and methamphetamine by Dunkirk police.  He was then arrested again last March during a raid in the north county city.... and, he and three others were found in possession of more than 300-grams of meth... and, a firearm. 

Man from Brocton indicted on nearly three-dozen charges following property thefts at 10 Amish homes...
A Brocton man faces 35 counts after being indicted by the Chautauqua County Grand Jury for allegedly burglarizing several Amish residences.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that 46-year-old Jarrett Sikes faces charges... including 11 counts of second-degree burglary... nine counts each of fourth-degree grand larceny... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, third-degree grand larceny... and one of second-degree attempted burglary after an investigation into 10 separate burglary incidents.  Beginning in July of 2025... and, through September of last year... Sheriff’s officers received multiple reports from individuals in Amish communities in the towns of Chautauqua, Portland and Sherman that their houses had been broken into and possessions stolen.  Deputies say they identified two suspects... Sikes and 56-year-old Melinda Pelayo of Dunkirk.  Investigators say they identified items stolen... including several firearms and personal items exceeding one-thousand dollars in value.  Investigators were able to recover some of the stolen items. Pelayo was charged with two counts of second-degree attempted burglary.  County Court Judge David Foley set bail for Sikes at $100,000 cash bail or $200,000 property bond.  Pelayo was arraigned and Foley released her without bail.  Both are scheduled for a discovery conference later.
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Sikes and Pelayo were also among 10 people charged last December by Dunkirk city police following a coordinated investigation into a series of larcenies committed at local cemeteries.  Beginning in October, Dunkirk police received a report of thefts involving a large number of bronze vases and other grave markers taken from Willowbrook Cemetery in Dunkirk. 

Langworthy tours and meets with officials at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital to discuss rural hospital, and health care needs...
For the first time since he was initially elected to Congress... 23rd District Representative Nick Langworthy visited the hospital he was born in.  The Buffalo-area Republican spoke with officials at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital -- formerly WCA Hospital -- Wednesday morning... and, toured the facilities newly-expanded Emergency and Maternity Departments.  Langworthy says UPMC was one of the local, rural hospitals in his district that face unique challenges... including having smaller patient populations, longer travel times, and difficulty in recruiting and retaining specialists and other workforce needs.  Langworthy also spoke about the $50-billion Rural Health Transformation legislation that he helped to craft... and pass.  UPMC Chautauqua President and Chief Executive Officer Tracy Gates expressed her appreciation with that... and says they're also using that to develop new collaborations with other partners to provide better outcomes "right here at home."  Unlike many other hospitals in the region that are looking at possible downsizing or closing... Gates says UPMC Chautauqua is "here for the long-haul."

Rowland talks about expansion project at St. Susan's Center...
Officials with the Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen hope to soon begin work on an expansion project to help them better serve the community.  The St. Susan's Center on Water Street has received more than $160,000 from two state grant programs to -- in particular -- install a new "walk-in" freezer for the center.  St. Susan's Executive Director Cherie Rowland says some private money is also coming in from local foundations and others.  A $61,000 grant from the state Dept. of Environmental Conservation was presented earlier this year.  
 

Four arrested following traffic stop on driving while under influence of drugs, and drug possession...
Four people have been arrested on drug-related and other charges following an early morning traffic stop Monday on Jamestown's southside.  City police say they stopped the car... driven by 55 year-old Lawrence Boughton of Falconer... just after 2:30 a.m.  Officers say they learned that two of Boughton's passengers... 49 year-old Ricky Bemis and 27 year-old Charles Dean... were sought on warrants for failure to appear in court.  Police also found that the third passenger... 27 year-old Megan Webb of Jamestown... was in possession of a large quantity of Fentanyl... and, a quantity of Suboxone.  Police also determined that Boughton was driving while under the influence of drugs... and, he was arrested for DWAI and multiple traffic violations.  Webb is charged with fourth and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Bemis and Dean were arrested for their bench warrants.  All four were held pending arraignment.   

City man arrested for assault, and DWAI...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person... and, driving a car while under the influence of drugs.  City police say they were called to the area of Baker Street and Prather Avenue shortly after 8 a.m. Monday for a reported assault.  During the investigation... officers say they found that 40 year-old Brook Patterson had been involved in a domestic incident... and, had operated a sedan while his license was revoked.  Police also found that Patterson was driving while under the influence of drugs.  He was taken into custody and transported to the city jail where he refused to submit to a chemical test.  Patterson was charged with Felony DWAI... and, two counts of first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.  He was held pending arraignment.   

County's Office for Aging Services, and others, recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day; OFAS also receives award for it's efforts...
The Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services' "NY Connects" team has been recognized for it's work in helping to support and protect the county's aging population.  The county's Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team Service Award was presented during Monday's World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event in Mayville.  Mike Lee with the Center for Elder Law and Justice, and the county's Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team made the presentation... noting that it offers a "front-door" for people looking for resources, support, and services in the county.  Lee adds they "pick up" the phone and help seniors and caregivers with their needs, or can direct them to where they can get them.  The "NY Connects" help-line is staffed by several people to answer questions about services... and other assistance that local seniors... their caregivers... and, families need.  Office for Aging Services Director Dana Corwin says they appreciate the recognition... and, is "very proud" of the team they have in place.  NY-Connects is a shared initiative of the county's Office for Aging Service and the Department of Social Services.  Their number is 753-4582... or 1-800-342-9871.
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The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event in front of the County Courthouse also called attention to the dangers facing the county -- and nation's -- aging popultion.  Dana Corwin says it's everyone's responsibility to not just be aware of elder abuse... but, act to prevent it through meaningful action... "through education, support services, advocacy, and strong community partnerships."

2015 JHS Grad Stephen Carlson will be keynote speaker at 2026 JHS Graduation...
A member of the Jamestown High School Class of 2015... who's also a professional football player... will deliver the keynote address for this year's class graduation.  The district has announced that Stephen Carlson... who was also a key member of the varsity football team's 2014 New York State Class-AA Championship... will speak at the Class of 2026 graduation ceremony at Chautauqua Institution on Thurs., June 25.  Carlson is currently continuing his pro football career with the Chicago Bears... and, is one of JHS's most accomplished recent alumni.  Principal Allyson Smith says -- "we are thrilled to welcome Stephen Carlson back home to address the Class of 2026.  Stephen’s accomplishments on the football field have been remarkable, but what makes him such an outstanding role model for our graduates is the way he has combined athletic success with academic excellence, perseverance, and humility -- a perfect example for our graduates as they look forward to this next step in their lives."  After JHS... Carlson went on to be an All-Ivy League Tight End at Princton University... and, was initially signed as an undrafted free agent by the Cleveland Browns.  JHS graduation at the Chautauqua Amphitheater will begin at 7 p.m. on June 25.

Two men arrested following disorderly conduct complaint in Jamestown...
Two men from Jamestown face charges after a disorderly person complaint on the city's southside last Wednesday night.  Jamestown police were called to the scene about 7 PM... and when they arrived they met 32 year-old Jomar Tapia... and, found that he had damaged property at the address.  While officers were attempting to control the scene... they say 57 year-old William Tapia grabbed a large 2-by-4 piece of lumber and tried to reach another person with it.  At that point... police say they advised William Tapia multiple times to drop the piece of lumber... but, he refused.  Both Jomar and William Tapia were taken into custody.  Officers charged Jomar Tapia with fourth-degree criminal mischief... while William is charged with second-degree obstructing governmental administration.  both were issued appearance tickets for city court for a later date.

City man arrested for menacing woman with a pistol...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly brandishing a pistol in a woman's direction on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene shortly after 3 a.m. Sunday by the victim.  Officers say their investigation showed that 56 year-old Robert Overton, Jr. also violated a "stay-away" order of  protection the victim had against him.  Police say they found Overton nearby... and, he was arrested for first-degree criminal contempt... and second-degree menacing.  He was taken to the City Jail pending arraignment.

Investigation ongoing into shooting of woman in Busti early last Saturday...
A two men from Jamestown have been arrested following an incident in the town of Busti in which a woman was shot.  On it's Facebook page... Lakewood-Busti police say they were called to the Cummins Jamestown Engine plant about 4 a.m. last Saturday on a report of a gunshot victim.  Officers say they found the adult female... who had severe injuries.  Police say she was later flown to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania for treatment.  Officers later determined that the incident had occured at a home on Big Tree Road... and, they arrested 20 year-old Anthony Rivera... and, 34-year-old Alexander Jewell.  Police say both men have charged with first-degree assault... and, first-degree attempted assault... and, criminal possession of a weapon.  Both Rivera and Jewell were taken to the County Jail pending centralized arraignment... and, the investigation is ongoing.  Lakewood-Busti police were assisted by Sheriff's deputies and Jamestown police. 

Schmidt says person of interest identified in fatal shooting in Dunkirk...
The investigation is continuing into a fatal shooting last Thursday night in the city of Dunkirk's First Ward.  City officers were called to the 100 block of South Gazelle St. shortly after 9:45 p.m. and located an adult male who suffered a single gunshot wound.  The victim was taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital, where he later died.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says the investigation has found that the shooting is apparently related to "street-level" drug trafficking.  Schmidt says the victim lived in an apartment at 110 South Gazelle.  He adds that the investigation has led to a person of interest that they are currently looking for.  Dunkirk Police say the shooting appears to be isolated and that investigators do not believe there is any active threat to the community, but the investigation is ongoing.  Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call Dunkirk Police at (716) 366-2266.

Heavy downpours, storms, produce some tree and utility pole damage in Chautauqua County on Sunday...
The Jamestown-area saw a lot of rain... and, some tree and power line damage from a band of thunderstorms came through the region late Sunday afternoon.  Sheriff's Department dispatchers say a handful of trees and utility poles were knocked down on Big Tree, and Mead Roads in the town of Busti.  A few other trees were also knocked over in areas... but, no major damage was reported.  Some places in the region reported nearly 2-inches of rain from the system.  The Jamestown Airport reported about 1.4-inches.

Jamestown man arrested following shotgun complaint...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly firing off a shotgun towards another person and their child on the southeast side of Jamestown.  City police were called to the unidentified location about 8 p.m. last Wednesday on a gunshot complaint near a residential street.  Officers say they received several calls about the incident... and, at the scene located 43 year-old David Figueroa with a 20-gauge shotgun in his possession.  Police determined that Figueroa had fired two slug-rounds in the direction of the victim and the child.  They add that an uninvolved vehicle was damaged from the two shotgun rounds.  Officers arrested Figueroa on two counts of first-degree reckless endangerment... fourth-degree criminal mischief... and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Figueroa was held in City Jail pending arraignment.

Sheriff's Department and Humane Society announce expanded effort to curb animal abuse and neglect...
A major increase in the number of animal cruelty cases in Chautauqua County has led the Sheriff's Department to assign a deputy to deal specifically with those cases.  In addition... Sheriff Jim Quattrone has announced an expanded partnership with the Chautauqua County Humane Society to combat animal cruelty and neglect.  Quattrone says the deputy... who's been on the job since the start of 2026... has been specially trained for this work because those cases are complex.  He says it's needed because often times, deputies only receive a quick overview at the Sheriff's Academy about such cases.  Quattrone says both the Sheriff's Office and Humane Society can take on-line complaints... or you can call his department at (716) 753-2132.  Humane Society Executive Director Jane Babinski says their Vet Tech is now going with the animal cruelty deputy on calls... which is part of their mission which is to empower the community to improve the lives of animals... and, she says responding to cruelty cases are definately part of that mission.  In addition to Quattrone and Babinski... State Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor spoke about efforts to create a state-wide Animal Cruelty registry... and, the fact that animal abuse can often be a precursor to other serious crimes.

 
 

Woman shot during incident near Cummins Engine Plant in Busti...

A woman had to be flown to an Erie, Pa. hospital after being shot during an incident near the Cummins Jamestown Engine Plant involving two men.  On it's Facebook page... Lakewood-Busti police say they were called to the scene about 4 AM last Saturday on a report of a gunshot victim.  Officers say they located the adult female... who had severe injuries.  Police say she was later airlifted to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie for medical treatment.  Officers later determined that the incident had occured at a home on Big Tree Road... and arrested 20 year-old Anthony Rivera... and, 34-year-old Alexander Jewell... who were both allegedly involved.  Police say both have been charged with first-degree assault... and, first-degree attempted assault... and, criminal possession of a weapon.  Both Rivera and Jewell were taken to the County Jail for centralized arraignment processing.  Lakewood-Busti police were assisted by Sheriff's deputies and Jamestown police.  The investigation remains ongoing. 

Man killed in shooting incident late Thursday night in city of Dunkirk...
Dunkirk police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday night in the city's First Ward.  Officers were called to 110 South Gazelle Street shortly after 9:45 p.m. and located an adult male suffering from a single gunshot wound.  The victim was taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital, where he later died.  Police say the incident appears to be isolated... and, that investigators do not believe there is any active threat to the community.  However... they say the investigation is ongoing... and, it appears to be drug-related.  Dunkirk Police are being assisted by the Chautauqua County District Attorney's Office... the county's Forensic Investigation Team, the Sheriff's Office, Fredonia Police, and State Police.  Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Dunkirk Police Department at (716) 366-2266.

Fire at Lafayette St. apartment house leaves tenants temporarily homeless...
A mid-day apartment house fire on Jamestown's westside has left several residents temporarily homeless.  City Fire Battalion Chief Jason Winchester says crews were called to 408 Lafayette St. about 12:15 p.m., and, found a working structure fire.  Winchester says flames were found near the back of the two-story structure on arrival... with the fire starting in the closet area of the second-floor of the building.  Winchester says it took about 15 minutes to bring the blaze under control.  However... he says crews were chasing "hot-spots" around the two apartments for about an hour.  He says everyone inside got out safely... and, are being helped by the local Red Cross.  He says there was damage to both apartments... with mainly water damage to the first floor... and, fire damage to the closet, and kitchen area of the second floor.  Winchester says most of the fire damage on the second-floor was to the closet area.  He adds an off-duty shift of 12 firefighters and a shift commander were called in.  Crews were at the scene until 2:30 p.m., and, the cause remains undetermined.

City of Jamestown awarded second, $10-million, DRI grant... Falconer awarded $4.5-million NY Forward grant...
The city of Jamestown is a repeat winner of a $10-million dollar, Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant... 10 years after winning the state's first such grant.  Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement in Buffalo Friday morning... with several city officials... including Mayor Kim Ecklund... on hand.  Hochul says Jamestown is the Western New York winner in the ninth round of DNI funding.  In addition... she says the village of Falconer and Hamburg will each receive $4.5-million as the Western New York winners of the fourth round of New York Forward funding.  For Round 9 of the DRI and Round 4 of the NY Forward Program, each of the state’s 10 economic development regions is being awarded $10 million from each program, for a total state commitment of $200-million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into more vibrant neighborhoods.  Hochul says... "building on the success of its first DRI award, (Jamestown's) next phase of revitalization will extend from its historic core to the shores of the Chadakoin River. This "Core to Shore" vision will connect downtown’s commercial, residential and cultural assets with its growing waterfront district."  Guided by inclusive planning and bold community partnerships, Jamestown continues to build a welcoming City where residents, businesses and visitors alike can thrive.

Jamestown woman and man from Albion arrested on federal child porn charges...
A city woman and a man from the Buffalo-area have been arrested separately for sending... and receiving on-line child pornography.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo says 28 year-old Kaitlyn Seekings of Jamestown was arrested for receipt and possession of child porn... while 22 year-old Kimony Hamilton of Albion, NY... was arrested for distribution and possession of child pornography.  DiGiacomo says the distribution and receipt of child pornography charges carry a mandatory minimum of five years in prison... a maximum of 20 years... and, a $250,000 dollar fine.  Prosecutors say in March of 2025... State Police received multiple reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Snapchat users... identified as Seekings and Hamilton... had uploaded files of suspected child porn.  In July of 2025... State Police executed a search warrant Hamilton's home... and, spoke with him and he stated that he received child porn from a friend he met online named "Kate" Seekings.  Further investigation recovered images shared between the pair which included child porn... and, Seekings providing access to a 13 year-old girl in Jamestown that Hamilton could have sex with.

Schmidt announces NYC-area man found guilty for assaulting corrections employees at Lakeview Correctional Facility...
A Chautauqua County Court Jury has convicted a New York City-area man on multiple assault charges in connection with an incident while he was at the Lakeview Correctional Facility in the town of Portland.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt says the guilty verdicts against Windsor Coleman, formerly of Massapequa, New York... were handed down late Thursday afternoon.  Schmidt says the 12-member panel convicted Coleman of four counts of second-degree assault against a corrections officers... and, two counts of first-degree promoting prison contraband.  The trial began on June 2... and, Schmidt says sentencing is set for Sept. 8.  Schmidt says... given Colemans's prior criminal record... he'll push for the maximum of 15 years in prison at that time... along with lifetime parole.

 

  

 

City man arrested after knocking out window from downtown business... and, kicking city police officer...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly breaking out a window at a downtown establishment Thursday morning... and then kicking an arresting officer.  Jamestown police were called to the unidentified location about 7:30 a.m. on a report of a disorderly person.  Officers say they were told that a man had broken out the window and left the scene.  Police say they were able to later locate the suspect... identified as 22 year-old Adam Garbrandt... a short distance away.  Officers took Garbrandt into custody... but, while waiting for EMS to respond to evaluate Garbrandt... he allegedly kicked an officer in the leg... injuring the policeman.  Garbrandt was taken to the city jail pending arraignment on one count of second-degree assault on a police officer... and, thired-degree criminal mischief.  

Hochul administration member discusses changes made to CLCPA made during the 2026-27 budget discussions...
The new, New York State budget makes some controversial changes to the state’s landmark 2019 law known as the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.  Those changes were defended Tuesday in a speech at the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities "Retool’26" conference in Celoron. The speaker was Governor Kathy Hochul's Deputy Energy Secretary, Sean Ewalt... who says the change in the timeline was necessitated by what's able to be on-line, and economics.  The adjustments in the climate law include extending the timeline for reducing greenhouse gasses and changing how New York measures emissions impact.  The National Resources Defense Council and other environmental groups have decried the changes.  In his address... Ewalt  also spoke about Albany’s renewed interest in nuclear energy, saying it has a key role in securing New York’s power backbone.  He also touted one other  part of the state budget: the Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebates, otherwise known as POWER.  Those $200 checks will be sent to 8.5 million New York households to help with the increasing cost of energy.

Borrello votes against NYS Data Center Moratorium, feels there should be local control...
New York may become the first state in the nation to put a temporary pause on new data centers following action taken during the end of the state's legislative session. The Senate and Assembly approved a bill establishing a one-year moratorium on the issuance of Department of Environmental Conservation permits for such facilities. State Senator George Borrello says he voted against that proposed moratorium for a number of reasons, the primary one having to do with local control because some communities want them, while others don't.  Borrello believes the Responsible Data Center Development Act is a flawed piece of legislation.  The Sunset Bay Republican says he's not sure what the state is trying to accomplish with that because information and data from the state analysis won't be available for 18-months... and, the moratorium is for one-year.  Locally, a cannabis company is currently seeking to develop a data center on a former golf course in the town of Portland... which has generated plenty of pushback from local residents.  The legislation awaits Governor Kathy Hochul's signature.

Northwest Arena's 'The Zone' for kids to open next month...
It's taken seven years from idea to completion, but 'The Zone' at the Northwest Arena in downtown Jamestown is set to open on July 11.  The arena's Events and Marketing Director, Tonja Rinaldo, says they are pumped up in anticipation of the opening... noting that there's a "ton of excitement" about the program right now.  Rinaldo says 'The Zone' is a 6,200 square foot area designed to engage young people ages 2 to 13 to learn and get excited about sports, and recreation.  She says additional information on the cost of tickets... and, the grand opening celebration will be coming in the next few weeks.

Southern Tier announces "limited time" ale to benefit ALS research...
Southern Tier Brewing is putting out a new, 'limited time only' ale.  That's not particularly unusual, but the new brew is being put out in conjunction with the National Comedy Center and will benefit research into ALS... also known as "Lou Gehrig's Disease."  Brandon Hank is the Brand Manager for Southern Tier... and, says "Bit by Bit" will have Comedy Center themes... with proceeds going towards research and finding a cure for ALS.  Vice President of Marketing and Communications at the Comedy Center, Gary Hahn, says ALS has recently struck close to home... with board member John Albro having been struck by the disease.  One of the founders of Southern Tier Brewing, Sara DeMink, serves on the board of the Comedy Center.  A dollar from every draft pint and a dollar from every four-pack of "'Bit to Bit" sold will go toward ALS research. 

Harmony man arrested for Felony DWI following traffic stop in Lakewood...
A town of Harmony man has been arrested on Felony drunk driving and other charges following a traffic stop in the village of Lakewood.  Sheriff's officers say they stopped 68 year-old Dan Swabik in the area of Fairmount Avenue and West Summit Street shortly after 10 p.m. Wednesday.  Deputies say they found Swabik was under the influence of alcohol and had an open container... and, had a previous DWI conviction in the past 10 years.  He was also charged with open container inside a motor vehicle... no or inadequate tail lamps, and unlicensed operation.  Swabik was issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court at a later date.

 

 
 

 

Chautauqua County Public Safety Roundup: Fire, Construction Accident, DWI Crash and Multiple Arrests Reported Over the Weekend

 

HARTFIELD — Two adults and several children were displaced following a house fire Saturday evening on Route 430 in Hartfield.

Fire departments from across Chautauqua County were dispatched to 6505 Route 430 shortly before 8:30 p.m. Responding agencies included North Lake, Westfield, Ripley, Maple Springs, Portland, Fluvanna, Ashville, Bemus Point, Ellery Center, Brocton, Sherman, Cassadaga and Stockton fire departments, along with law enforcement and Chautauqua County EMS personnel.

No injuries were reported. A scanner transmission Sunday morning indicated the scene may have rekindled around 6 a.m. The cause of the fire has not yet been released.

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Construction Worker Injured on Chautauqua Lake Bridge

A construction worker was seriously injured late Friday night while working on the Chautauqua Lake Bridge rehabilitation project.

Emergency responders were called to the bridge shortly before 11 p.m. after reports that a worker had fallen approximately 18 feet from a section of the bridge onto a safety deck below.

The worker reportedly suffered multiple injuries. Members of the Chautauqua County Technical Rescue Team, along with firefighters from Ashville and Bemus Point and Chautauqua County EMS, spent about an hour rescuing the victim from the safety deck.

The worker was transported by ambulance to the Ashville Fire Department before being flown by Mercy Flight to an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital for further treatment.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

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Dunkirk Man Charged Following Alleged Hit-and-Run Crash

A Dunkirk man faces multiple charges after authorities say he struck a bicyclist with his vehicle and fled the scene Saturday night.

Chautauqua County Sheriff's deputies responded to Bennett Road near the Interstate 90 overpass shortly after 9:45 p.m. for a reported vehicle-bicycle accident.

Investigators say a Good Samaritan followed the suspect vehicle into the City of Dunkirk, helping deputies locate it. Following an investigation, deputies determined that the driver, identified as 52-year-old Pascual Pablo-Domingo, was allegedly intoxicated.

The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Pablo-Domingo was charged with leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, driving while intoxicated, unlicensed operation and consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle. He was released with appearance tickets and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

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Three Animal Cruelty Arrests Made in Jamestown

Jamestown Police made three animal cruelty arrests Saturday in two separate incidents involving puppies on the city's south side.

At approximately 10:14 a.m., officers responded to an animal complaint after a resident reported finding her pit bull puppy with a charging cord tied around its front paws. Police said the puppy was yelping and crying when it was discovered. Following an investigation, 26-year-old Daysean Braswell-Adams was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty. He was processed at the Jamestown City Jail and later released with an appearance ticket.

Later Saturday afternoon, around 3:20 p.m., officers responded to Windsor Street after receiving a report that two individuals were beating a small puppy. Following an investigation, Arthur Hubbard and Cheyanne Alcorn were arrested and charged with Cruelty to Animals, a Class A misdemeanor.

Hubbard was held pending arraignment due to prior failures to appear in court, while Alcorn was processed and released with an appearance ticket.

All three defendants are scheduled to appear in Jamestown City Court.

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Jamestown Man Charged with Petit Larceny

Jamestown Police also reported a shoplifting arrest Saturday evening.

At approximately 5:32 p.m., officers responded to a south side business for a shoplifting complaint. Police say William Dudley allegedly concealed merchandise on his person and left the store without paying.

Dudley was located nearby and taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Jamestown City Jail, processed and released with an appearance ticket.

He is charged with Petit Larceny and is scheduled to answer the charge in court at a later date.

They’re not lurking just in the deep woods anymore. That’s the wake-up call health officials across Western New York are sounding as tick season hits peak danger—and this year, it’s worse than it’s been in nearly a decade.

The CDC reports emergency room visits for tick bites have reached their highest weekly rate since 2017. But here’s what makes that statistic scarier than it sounds: these bloodsucking parasites aren’t confined to hiking trails or state forests. Rebecca Roll with Lyme Western New York puts it bluntly: “It’s an everywhere problem. It’s not an outdoor problem. It’s not a wooded problem. It’s an everywhere problem.” Your backyard, your neighborhood sidewalk, even your kid’s playground—they’re all potential tick territory.

The risk landscape in our region tells the story. The Southern Tier sits at medium risk for nymphal ticks, while the northern Buffalo area carries slightly lower risk for that particular stage. But adult ticks? That’s where the danger cranks up to high across the whole region. Don’t let that scare you into staying indoors, though. Roll reminds us that the payoff of getting outside still outweighs the risk—we’re lucky to live here, and that means using it.

So how do you actually stay safe? Start with the basics: light-colored clothing makes ticks easier to spot, and long sleeves and pants tucked into socks or boots create a barrier they can’t cross. The Western New York Public Health Alliance recommends insect repellent with 20-30% DEET, though the EPA also backs alternatives like picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. (If you’re using sunscreen, apply that first, repellent second.)

The critical move? A full-body check after you come inside. Don’t skip the weird spots—under your arms, behind your ears, inside the belly button, between your legs, around the waistline. If you find one, grab fine-tipped tweezers and pull straight up from the mouthparts without twisting. Speed matters: removing a tick within 36 hours of attachment can dramatically lower your risk of contracting Lyme disease. Watch the bite site for a rash over the next 3 to 30 days.

At home, you can also create a tick-safe zone: keep grass mowed, clear brush away from stone walls and wood piles, place a 3-foot barrier of wood chips between your lawn and any wooded areas, and keep playground equipment and patios in sunny spots away from tree edges. Fencing and keeping pets out of wooded areas both help too. The goal isn’t to eliminate every tick—that’s impossible—but to stack the odds in your favor. Summer’s here. Get outside, stay smart, and check yourself on the way back in.

School’s nearly out, the thermometer’s climbing into the 80s, and there’s only one way families in Warren and Jamestown are beating the heat this season: water. Lots of it.

The good news? Local officials across both counties are rolling out the welcome mat without making your wallet weep. In Warren, city manager Mike Holtz announced that the municipal pool is opening its gates with admission fees locked at last year’s prices—a rare move when operating costs keep climbing. “We realize that the pool is really important to the community and the kids, and with prices going up everywhere you look, we wanted to keep our fees the same as last year to give everybody an opportunity to come out and cool down,” Holtz explained. It’s the kind of move that reminds you affordable recreation isn’t dead; it just takes commitment.

Over at the Warren County YMCA’s C.A.R. Pool (short for Conewango, Allegheny River Community Pool), the waters are already open for business. Manager Dani Mumford reports the facility opened strong despite cooler-than-ideal temperatures, with a standout crew of newly trained lifeguards ready for the summer crush. They’ve even got special red, white and blue uniforms on deck to celebrate Pennsylvania’s upcoming 250th anniversary—a small touch that shows pride in what they’re running.

Cross the state line into Jamestown, and you’ll find splash pads firing up at no cost to families. Dan Stone, parks manager for the City of Jamestown Parks and Recreation Department, credits local leadership for prioritizing public recreation. “We are very fortunate at the Parks Department that our mayor and City Council realize the importance of the parks here in the city, and we try to offer as much as we can to the public at no expense to them,” Stone said. Rising costs have complicated preparations, but winter maintenance work ensured everything’s ready for the crowds.

As kids count down their final days of school, these communities are sending a clear message: staying cool shouldn’t be a luxury. Whether it’s a municipal pool keeping prices steady or splash pads throwing open their gates free, Warren and Jamestown are betting that access to summer fun strengthens the whole community.

New York's Junior U-S Senator says the Trump administration has finally released a long-delayed report on homeless data nationwide.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand... who is a member of a relevant Senate subcommittee, has announced that the U-S Department of Housing and Urban Development has finally responded to her call to release its long-overdue homelessness data.  Part-One of the 2025 Annual Homelessness Assessment report...  found that homelessness fell by 3-percent nationwide in the year ending in January 2025.  But, there were concerning increases for certain populations, particularly a 6.8-percent increase among people aged 65 and older. 

The annual "Hope & Healing Conference of Western New York" is taking place Thursday and Friday on the campus of SUNY Fredonia.  The day-one speakers include Joseph Green and Kym Laube... two nationally recognized voices who bring powerful perspectives on connection, recovery, and the impact of lived experience. Joseph Green brings more than 20 years of experience in helping people to make "meaningful change" in their lives. Kym Laube is the Executive Director of Human Understanding Growth Services -- or HUGS, Inc., based in Westhampton Beach, New York.   She has more than 35 years of experience in substance use prevention.   For more information... go on-line to hopeandhealingconference.com.

 

A Dunkirk man has been charged with four counts of 2nd degree rape after his arrest early Wednesday morning in Forestville.  The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office reports 44-year-old Vernal Carpenter was apprehended around 3:30 AM in a vehicle along with a 'juvenile subject.' A subsequent investigation determined there had been several instances of intimate contact between the pair on more than one occasion.  Carpenter was taken to the county jail pending arraignment.  

 

The Jamestown Farmer's Market will open for the season this Saturday, from 9 AM to 1 PM... at a new location.  Neith Weith (wythe), the Director of Food Access Programs says they are moving to East Third Street in the area in front of the Reg Lenna Civic Center.  The change came at the request of both vendors and customers who wanted a more 'park like' atmosphere with trees to fend off the mid-summer heat.  As in past years, customers can use SNAP and 'Fresh Connect' benefits when they shop. The Jamestown Farmer's Market is a program of St. Lukes Episcopal Church.  

 

I-86  Catt County Rebuild-Short (No Audio)  06-03-26
 

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that work is underway to repave a portion of Interstate 86 that runs through the Seneca Nation in Cattaraugus County.  It's a $5.6 million  project that will include milling and resurfacing of more than 25 'lane miles' of the road. Some lane closures will occur between now and the conclusion of the project later this year.  The governor called I-86 a 'vital corridor.' 

 

The largest steam locomotive operating anywhere in the world will make a whistle stop in Northern Chautauqua County next week.  Union Pacific’s Big Boy Number 40-14 is set to cross the state line and stop in Ripley at Noon on Tuesday, June 9th.  'Big Boy’  will remain at the State Street crossing in Ripley until around 12:30 PM, Tuesday. The locomotive is aptly named, as it weighs 1.2 million pounds, and with the attached ‘tender,’ is 133 feet long.  The powerful engine generates 7,000 horsepower. Union Pacific used a fleet of these engines to haul heavy equipment in World War II.  As the last remaining ‘big boy,’ 40-14 is on a major tour east in conjunction with the U.S. 250 celebration. 

Public's help being sought to locate city woman currently missing...
City police in Jamestown are asking for the public's help in locating a woman who recently went missing.  City police say they are trying to locate 23 year-old Jena Roppel whose whereabouts are unknown.  Police say Roppel is about 5'0 tall, and weighs 100 lbs., and, has brown hair and blue eyes.  If you have seen Jena, been in contact with her, or have any information regarding her location, please contact the Jamestown Police Department's Detective Bureau immediately at 490-4839 -- call or text.  Police say their "priority is to confirm Jena's safety."

City man arrested on drug and weapon's charges following drug raid last Friday afternoon...      A man from Jamestown faces multiple drug and weapons possession charges following a raid on an eastside residence.  Sheriff's officer say their narcotics investigators, along with members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force... executed a search warrant at 33 Ellicott St. shortly before 3:30 p.m. last Friday.  Inside... they found 57-year-old Anthony Jordan... and, they searched the residence.  Police investigators say they found nearly 82-grams of methamphetamine... 7.1-grams of fentanyl... just over $1,400 cash... and, packaging used for sale and distribution of narcotics.  Jordan was arrested for second and third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment. 

Wendel says there's some good, and bad, in the new NYS budget...
There's some good... and, bad in the late New York State budget which was finally adopted last week -- nearly two months late.  That from Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel... who says there will be some benefits to the county... namely in three areas of the more than $268.5-billion spending plan.  The first is an increase in 911 funding, but, there's also additional benefits for Tier 6 employees.  There's also $50-million more funding to assist local counties... but, that's not even $1-million for each county.  Wendel says that money is reportedly going to be doled out by population.  He says county executives will be getting more information during Tuesday meeting with the New York State Association of Counties.  Wendel says he's also pleased to see the state's climate goals being pushed back... and, making some sensible changes.  He's also happy to see the electric school bus mandate pushed back also.  However... Wendel says there's also concern over what's in the new budget that may have been intentionally -- or unintentionally -- buried in the text that lawmakers don't know about yet.  

Wendel says some homeless have had to be taken to hotels in Erie, Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties in wake of local hotel closures or partial closures...
The recent closure of hotels in Chautauqua County that have been housing homeless people has forced the county to relocate some of those individuals outside the county.  That information was revealed during a recent meeting of the County Legislature's Human Services Committee. With remaining locations in Chautauqua County now full, some of the homeless population has been sent to hotels and other facilities in Erie and Allegany counties.  Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel says the county has to make sure the individuals are housed somewhere, and at this time, they have to do some of that outside of the county.  Wendel says he and Mental Hygiene Director Carmelo Hernandez have been eyeing a county-run facility to provide more oversight.  He says there are a number of places are being considered, including a former nursing facility in Gerry that closed earlier this year... and, there are others where they should be able to provide wrap around services.  Wendel has been critical of two hotel owners for not maintaining their facilities. 

North County man arrested following vehicle pursuit with his motorcycle...
An Irving man faces several charges after allegedly leading Sheriff's deputies on a vehicle pursuit with his motorcycle in the north county.  Officers say a patrol tried to pull over 58 year-old Michael Jamison shortly after 6 p.m. last Saturday... but, he failed to comply... and, led deputies on a pursuit from the town of Arkwright into the town of Hanover.  Jamison eventually stopped at an address on  Allegany Road in Hanover... and, he and a female passenger were taken into custody after a brief struggle.  Jamison faces charges including: DWI... unlawful fleeing of a police officer... and, second-degree reckless endangerment.  The female passenger was not charged.

Man from Westfield arrested on assault and menacing charges...
A man from Westfield has been arrested for allegedly injuring another person... and, then threatening them with a knife.  Westfield Police were called to a reported assault shortly before 1 p.m. last Thursday on North Portage Street... and, investigated.  Officers say they found that 49 year-old Sean Mcilveen had caused serious -- intentional injury -- to the victim during an altercation.  Police also found that Mcilveen had also followed the victim with a knife, causing the victim to fear further physical harm.  Officers later arrested Mcilveen for second-degree assault... and, second-degree menacing.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.

City man arrested for allegedly choking person during domestic incident...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly trying to choke another person during a domestic incident late last week on the city's westside.  City police were called to the location about 6:15 a.m. last Wednesday for the reported dispute.  Officers say they made contact with 37 year-old David Lindsey when they arrived... and, investigated the incident.  They found Lindsey had allegedly put pressure on the victim's neck and throat with his hands.  He was arrested for criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and was jailed pending arraignment.    

Two people from Jamestown arrested following Wednesday drug bust on city's westside...     
Two city residents have been arrested on several drug-related charges following a raid on Jamestown's westside Wednesday.  City police say the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force... and, Sheriff's Department Narcotics Investigators executed a search warrant at 218 West Eighth Street just before 10:30 a.m.  Prior to entering... agents encountered 39 year-old Katiria Cruz-Torres leaving the residence in a car -- which they quickly stopped.  Cruz-Torres was detained, and officers found her in possession of 4.1-grams of crack cocaine... 4-grams of cocaine... 5.8-grams of fentanyl and $454 cash.  Detectives and Investigators then made entry in to the home... and, located 48 year-old Cesar Santiago, and an adult female.  Investigators also found a small quantity of crack cocaine... digital scales... packaging material and cutting agents. Cruz-Torres was charged with three counts each of third and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Santiago was charged with one count of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug Paraphrenalia.  Both were jailed pending arraignment.  Anyone with information about drug or criminal activity is asked to call the Jamestown Police Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.... or the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office Tip line at 1-800--344-8702 or 664-2420.

Falconer man arrested in Jamestown for allegedly injuring victim in physical domestic incident...
A man from Falconer has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person during a domestic incident on Jamestown's eastside.  City police say they were called to the unidentified address shortly after 11 p.m. Wednesday for a domestic "in-progress."  Their investigation found that 21 year-old Jack Wyant had gotten into a physical altercation with the victim... who had an order of protection against him.  The victim was injured in the altercation... and, Wyant was arrested for third-degree assault and aggravated criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Man accused of throwing 16-month-old -- killing him -- gets 15 years in state prison...
The Jamestown man who admitted to fatally injuring a 16-month-old boy during an incident two years ago will spend 15 years in state prison.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that 28 year-old Matthew Nuttall was sentenced by Judge David Foley to the 15 year term... and, five years of post-release supervision on his first-degree manslaughter conviction in the death of Isaac Benton.  Schmidt says the sentence is part of an agreement between the Judge and Mr. Nuttall’s defense counsel in the last pre-trial conference before the jury trial was scheduled to begin.  Under the agreement... Nuttall pled to the top charge of the indictment of first-degree manslaughter... and, the judge promised to cap his sentence at 15 years.  Schmidt has requested on behalf of the people that he be sentenced to 20 years... given the seriousness of the crime.

Local Law introduced by Democrats to reduce Co. Clerk's salary in 2030 defeated by full legislature...
A local law that would have cut the Chautauqua County Clerk's salary by 10-thousand dollars a year was defeated by the legislature this week.  However... there were questions over why Democrats proposed the law in the first place.  Ellington-area Republican Dan Pavlock said he was concerned that, because Clerk Greg Carlson spoke in support of the size of the county's undesignated fund balance during last month's public comment period, he was being penalized.  Pavlock says he doesn't want to see that happen to anyone.  However... Jamestown Democrat Fred Larson said "that dog won't hunt..." noting that minority members have been concerned all along with salary increases for managers in recent times.  Larson adds that it's not seeming to deter Carlson from running again in 2030, because a correspondence was received from him that he was still running in 2030, even if the salary is reduced.  The local law was defeated in a party-line, 6-11 vote.  It would not have taken effect until 2030.  Larson later asked if a request by fellow Democrat Tom Nelson about a committee review of how management salaries are doled out was going anywhere.  Chairman Pierre Chagnon expected it to be on the Audit and Control Committee agenda in June.

Corrections Officer quick work stops gas leak in county jail...
Quick work by a corrections officer at the Chautauqua County Jail prevented a stovetop gas leak from becoming worse.  Sheriff's officers have also charged the inmate... who was working in the trustee section in the kitchen... with second-degree reckless endangerment.  Deputies say 26 year-old Jeremiah Warrior had extinguished the pilot lights on the stove... but, did not shut off the gas.  The CO that oversees the jail kitchen trustees discovered the gas leak several minutes later. 

Police presence seen outside Dunkirk Intermediate school Friday due to threat in social media post...
Dunkirk City Schools Superintendent Brian Swatland says there was an increased police presence around the Intermediate School Friday morning following reports of a potential threat to safety at the school.  Swatland tells us that the concern was about a social media post that contained a "threatening comment."  Details of the comment were not provided. In a message to school families, Swatland said the threat was found to be not credible.

 

Cassadaga man arrested on Child Porn charges following more than 2-year long investigation...         
A more than two-year long investigation into child pornography in the Cassadaga-area has led to the arrest of a 72 year-old man.  Sheriff's officers say they began the investigation in 2023... and, identified the suspect as Daniel "Danny" Wojcieszyn of Barnum Road.  Deputies say they raided Wojcieszyn's home... and, collected a large amount of electronic evidence... which was submitted to the Regional Computer Forensics Lab in Buffalo.  The Sheriff's Office says it got the evidence back last month... reviewed it... and, found a large quantity of images portraying children engaged in sexual performances.  A warrant was issued... and, Wojcieszyn was arrested in Dunkirk... and, taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.  He is charged with 10 counts each of promoting an obscene sexual performance by a child... and possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child.   He's to answer for his charges in the Chautauqua County Supreme Court.

State Legislature approves final 2026-27, $268.5-billion budget...
The New York State Legislature has finally approved a 2026-27 budget... the latest spending plan in 16 years.  Lawmakers in the Senate and Assembly approved the final bills making up the $268.5-billion spending plan shortly before Midnight Wednesday.  Spectrum News reports that Governor Kathy Hochul signed two budget bills yesterday... and, has others still to sign.  The measures signed include: changes to the 2019 climate law... pensions for more than 830,000 government employees... speeding up the state’s environmental review process tied to development, known as SEQRA; and car insurance reforms.

County Legislature's Democrat Leader presents response to Wendel's State of County Address...
Minority Democrats on the Chautauqua County Legislature gave their rebuttal to County Executive P.J. Wendel's State of the County Address last night.  Wendel's annual address was given at April's annual County Executive's Breakfast hosted by the CHQ Chamber.  Dunkirk Democrat Bob Bankowski presented their nine-minute long response... noting that while wages in the county have increased... they haven't kept pace with nine other, comparable counties in New York.  Bankowski says the median income in those nine other counties was $76,000... but, in Chautauqua County, it only increased slightly above $55,000.  He says that was still below even Cattaraugus County.  Bankowski also noted that the county has seen some 700 job losses in recent months... including more than 200 at Bush Industries.  While the number of private sector jobs has fallen... along with the population... Bankowski says the number of county government jobs is up about 200.  The county lost 200 jobs several years ago with the sale of the County Home in Dunkirk. 

GOP -- including Wendel -- respond to Democrats response...
Republicans provided a quick response to the Democrat's critique... with one lawmaker saying he's ready to work with Democrats -- if they'll work with the GOP Majority.  John Penhollow says the numbers don't tell the full story because of the adverse business and tax climate created by state Democrats in Albany.  County Executive Wendel was at the meeting... and, later offered a sharp rebut to Democrats... saying it was "disappointing in the fact we have elected members of this body who like to see Chautauqua County at the bottom of the barrel.  They don't want to see success unless it comes from their side of the aisle.  Maybe they need to be reminded they represent everyone in their district..." and not just members of their party.  
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In other action during last night's monthly meeting... legislators -- in near party-line votes -- rejected local laws that would eliminate annual cost of living adjustments for the legislators.... and, another that would have cut the County Clerk's salary by $10,000 a year... beginning in 2030.

County IDA approves working capital loans to support new fruit juice pouch facility in Westfield...
A Westfield-area grape cooperative has plans to renovate a former car dealership building and turn it into a fruit juice pouch filling and packaging facility... and it's getting financial support from Chautauqua County.  The county's Industrial Development Agency has okayed $200,000 in working capital loans to WMC Grape Juice, LLC.  IDA Chief Executive Officer Mark Geise says the entity, which does business as Lake Erie Juice Company of Westfield, will produce four-ounce grape juice-filled pouches for distribution to school districts, food banks, and other locations.  Geise says the pouches will contain 100% Concord Grape juice... and will be labeled as grown and produced in Western New York.  He says they'll be under the brand name, "Good and Grapey."  Geise says WMC plans to invest $2.6-million into the former DeHavens Dodge City building on Route 20 in the Town of Westfield.  He says most of that will come from cooperative members... and the new company will have both a processing and packaging line with mainly member-owners to begin with.  By year-6... they expect to have about 17 new workers on board.  Additional startup assistance for the project has been provided by the New York Small Business Development Center at Jamestown Community College, Empire State Development, Farm Credit East, the US Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Guarantee, and others. 

French parent company of Monofrax, Saint Gobain announces closing of production lines, and lay-offs of 79 workers...
A maker of fused-cast refractories in Falconer since 1948 will be ending three product lines late this Summer... eliminating nearly 80 jobs.  In a press release Wednesday morning... parent company Saint-Gobain of France announced it would be closing the Monofrax plant... which became SEFPRO in 2022.  The move will impact 79 union, and salaried positions associated with the plant's Zirconia, alumina and chrome product lines.  Saint-Gobain says production is expected to end in August.  The company says "this will not impact every product line at Falconer, and the facility will continue the production of its remaining product lines.  This decision comes after careful consideration and evaluation of Saint-Gobain’s core business goals and is in line with the company’s mission and strategy." 

Lakeview Shock inmate accused of assaulting two DOCCS employees indicted...
The Lakeview Shock Incarceration Facility inmate accused of attacking two corrections employees last February has now been indicted.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says the secret indictment against Jkendric Agee was unsealed in County Court Tuesday... charging him with two counts of second-degree assault.  Schmidt says the incident occured back on Feb. 23, and alleges that Agee brutally attacked and injured a female civilian staff member without provocation, and then attacked and injured a Corrections Officer who came to her aid.  Agee was arraigned Tuesday morning... and, County Court Judge David Foley entered a "not guilty" plea for him.  Bail was set at $250,000 cash bail... $500,000 property bond.  He was then returned to Attica Correctional Facility where he has been held since the attacks.  The first was against a woman instructing Agee and other inmates as part of a HALT Act rehabition program.  Schmidt says "no one should ever have to earn a living while in fear for their personal safety or that of their co-workers.  Unless you’ve experienced it for yourself, and I hope no person reading this ever does, an unprovoked attack doesn’t just threaten bodily harm and one’s physical safety but leaves behind substantial emotional scars that can last a lifetime."  Corrections and Community Services Commissioner Daniel Martuscello says "this indictment sends a clear message that violent assaults on correctional staff will be met with swift accountability.  Our officers and civilian staff report to work each day to maintain safety and order and deliver rehabilitative services in challenging environments. They deserve to do so without fear of violence, and DOCCS will continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who attack staff are fully prosecuted."

Jamestown teen arrested for possessing loaded firearm during large fight...
A city teen has been arrested for allegedly being found in possession of a loaded hand-gun during a large fight on Jamestown's southside.  City police were called to the scene shortly after Midnight Monday for the fight.  When officers arrived... they spoke with one of the people involved... and, then canvassed the area for the opposing person involved.  They then located 18 year-old Calvis King Emanuel... and, found him in possession of the gun along with a large capacity feeding device.  Police also found a fake ID number on the gun... essentially making it a "ghost gun."  Officers took Emanuel into custody without further incident... and, he was charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Carle announces run for NYS Assembly's 150th District seat...
A former Chautauqua County Legislator who ran unsuccessfully for county executive is throwing his hat into the ring for State Assembly.  Fredonia Democrat Tom Carle has announced that he's running this Fall for the 150th District seat currently held by Westfield's Andrew Molitor... who is completing his first term.  Previously... Carle ran for Congress... and, say he still feels a call to do public service.  He says no one else stepped up that has his "street cred..." or more experience.  Carle's "street cred..." is his resume of managing and turning around companies and businesses in the eastern US and in other parts of the world.  He says he's still concerned about the county losing businesses... and, 12,000 to 14,000 residents the past 20 years.... with losses of Absolut Care of Westfield, Serta Mattress and others.  Carle says in his more than one-year on the county legislature... he learned there's more that could be done if people with the right "skill sets" were involved in government.

Langworthy touts farm bill legislation that he crafted while on committee...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy says he's proud that several of his agriculture-related bills are in the Farm Bill recently adopted in the House.  Langworthy says the measure... which was approved, 224-200... included 14 Democrat votes.  The Buffalo-area Republican is not on the Agriculture Committee this year... but, says the Chairman -- Glenn Thompson -- was able to keep four items he pushed for.  Langworthy says those include the GRAPE Act... and, MAPLE Act.  Right now... the House is waiting for Senate action on the new bill.  Among the key items Langworthy pushed for in the "Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026" was the GRAPE Act... which establishes a crop insurance program to protect table wines, and juice producers due to freezes and frosts.  Another big item is the MAPLE Act... which expands the Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program to include maple syrup as an eligible purchase. 
 

Erie Co. Medical Examiner's Office confirms body found on lake near Stow Ferry is that of missing Lakewood man...
The body found on the Chautauqua Lake shoreline near the Stow Ferry last weekend is that of a missing Lakewood man.  The Sheriff's Office says it's received word from the Erie County Medical Examiner's Office that the body was that of 64 year-old Daniel "Scott" Emerson.  Officers were called to the scene in Stow about 8:45 last Saturday morning for a possible body found on the shore.  Deputies were assisted by the County Coroners' Office and, Lakewood-Busti police in preliminarily identifying the body as Emerson's.  He was reported missing to Lakewood-Busti police on Mar. 5.  Their investigation found that Emerson had driven his pick-up truck onto the lake... and, went north on the ice before going through it under the Lake Bridge.  The truck was found by divers on Mar. 16... and, it was recovered four days later.

Jamestown teen arrested for allegedly bringing loaded, "ghost gun" to large fight early Monday...
A city teen has been arreted for allegedly being found in possession of a loaded hand-gun during a large fight on Jamestown's southside.  City police were called to the scene shortly after Midnight Monday for the fight.  When officers arrived... they spoke with one of the people involved... and, then canvassed the area for the opposing person involved.  They then located 18 year-old Calvis King Emanuel... and, found him in possession of the gun along with a large capacity feeding device.  Police also found a fake ID number on the gun... essentially making it a "ghost gun."  Officers took Emanuel into custody without further incident... and, he was charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

City man arrested for allegedly threatening juvenile with knife during domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly menacing a juvenile with a knife during a weekend domestic incident.  City police say they were called to a southside address shortly after 4 p.m. last Saturday for a domestic dispute.  Officers say they investigated and arrested 39 year-old Nikitta Vazquez for second-degree menacing... first-degree criminal contempt... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  Vazquez was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Jamestown man accused of punching another person in front of two young children...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly punching another person during a domestic incident in front of two young children.  Jamestown police say they were called to a southside address shortly after 10 p.m. last Saturday for the dispute.  Officers say their investigation found that 37 year-old Jonathan Torres had also committed the act in front of a child that had an order of protection against him.  Torres was arrested for third-degree assault... second-degree criminal contempt... and, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.  

Local communities observe Memorial Day on Monday...
It was a cool, damp and foggy Memorial Day morning... but, the sounds of marching bands filled the air across Chautauqua County.  They included the Southwestern High School and Middle School Bands... who struck a patriotic note during the Town of Busti Memorial Day Parade.  A program followed at the gazebo near Busti Cemetery.  The featured speaker was Ed Thomas from the Busti Church of God... a six-year U.S. Army Veteran of Vietnam.  He called for unity in remembering the fallen.  Thomas says the love of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice mirrors that of Jesus Christ... who sacrificed himself for all of humanity.  Other Memorial Day observances were held across Chautauqua County in Jamestown... Falconer... Frewsburg... Dunkirk and Fredonia.  Each included the playing of taps... and, a 21-gun salute.  The Veteran's Day Program in Jamestown also included special recognition of three Civil War veteran's whose remains are at Lakeview Cemetery.  

State Legislature to resume session to vote on budget bills this week...
New York State's budget is more than a month and a half past due... but, lawmakers in Albany are "not even close" to completing it.  That from State Senator George Borrello laste last week... who said the legislature had approved three of the 10 budget bills that make up the projected $268-billion spending plan.  Borrello says he is hearing that there continue to be disagreements among Democratic leaders over policy items... which reinforces the need to stop debating policy during the budget process.  One of the budget bills that lawmakers debated and advanced last week was the Public Protection and General Government bill.  Borrello says he voted against it because it contains legislation prohibiting agreements with ICE, also known as the "Local Cops, Local Crimes Act."  The Sunset Bay Republican says it would not allow local agencies to turn criminals over to ICE. 

City man arrested in town of Ellicott for DWAI, and other charges...
A Jamestown man faces a number of charges after he was found passed out behind the wheel of his car in a parking lot on Fairmount Avenue.  Ellicott Town Police responded to the scene shortly before 8 a.m. last Friday... and, found the vehicle near 707 Fairmount Ave. stopped -- but, with the motor running.  Officers say they found 44 year-old Matthew Zimmer behind the wheel... and, that he was under the influence of drugs, and had a suspended driver's license.  Zimmer was arrested for DWAI-Drugs... first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation... and, several other vehicle and traffic violations.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment... and, is to appear in Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

 

**(Bulletin) Body of missing Lakewood man found near Stow Ferry...

The body of the Lakewood man reported missing in early March on Chautauqua Lake has apparently been found along the shoreline near the Stow Ferry.  Sheriff's officers say they received a call about a possible body being found near the Ferry about 8:45 a.m. Saturday.  Deputies say they... along with the County Coroner's Office and Lakewood-Busti Police responded... and preliminarily identified the body as that of 64 year-old Daniel "Scott" Emerson.  Emerson had been reported missing on March 5th... and, their investigation found that Emerson apparently had driven his pick-up truck on to the lake the day before... and, it broke through the lake ice.  The truck was found on Mar. 16... and, recovered on Mar. 20 near the Lake Bridge.  However... divers were unable to find Emerson... who may have escaped through a window.  This investigation is ongoing pending the findings from the medical examiner's office.

City man arrested following disturbance at Lakewood Wal-Mart... and, pulling knife on arresting officer...
A Jamestown man faces serious charges after causing a disturbance at the Lakewood WalMart SuperCenter... then pulling a knife on a police officer.  Lakewood-Busti Police were called to the scene at 350 East Fairmount Ave. shortly after 11 a.m. Thursday for a man allegedly destroying property and merchandise.  When officers arrived... they saw broken and destroyed items strewn on the floor... but, Wal-Mart staff had secured the area.  The officer then confronted the man near the electronics area of the store.  He identified himself... and, the man -- identified as 40 year-old Emmanuel Molina- Nazario -- initially ignored the officer.  However... Molina-Nazario then pulled a knife... and, the officer again told him to cease and desist.  Additional officers then arrived... and, Molina-Nazario was taken into custody without further incident.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment on charges of menacing a police officer... second-degree criminal mischief and resisting arrest.

City woman arrested after being found passed out behind wheel of car parked in southside plaza...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs after she was found passed out behind the wheel of a parked car.  City police say they were called to the Top's Market on Foote Avenue shortly after 4 a.m. Thursday... and, found 44 year-old Tonya Thwing behind the wheel asleep.  Officers say they determined that Thwing was operating the vehicle while under the influence of drugs.  When police tried to take her into custody, she pulled away from officers and failed to comply.  Following a brief struggle... Thwing was taken into custody without further incident.  She was taken to the city jail... where she was later found in possession of a quantity of methamphetamine packaged for sale... as well as hydrocodone and alprazolam there were not prescribed to her... along with drug paraphernalia.  Thwing is charged with DWAI... fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminal use of drug paraphernalia... and, resisting arrest.  She was held pending arraignment.   

South Dayton Man gets 9-years in prison on Child Porn conviction...
A man from South Dayton has been sentenced to nine-years in federal prison on a child pornography conviction.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that 31 year-old Joseph Buelow... who was convicted for receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence Vilardo.  In February of 2024... prosecutors say West Seneca Police seized Buelow’s phone, based on communications he was having on-line.  They recovered six images of child porn that were saved on the phone and received by Buelow between August of 2022, and November 2023. 

Memorial Day actvities and events underway in Jamestown-area...
Events and activites for Memorial Day Weekend are already underway in the Jamestown-area.  Members of the city's Veteran's Council -- and public -- were at Soldier's Circle at Lakeview Cemetery Thursday for the annual placing of flags on the gravesites of decreased veterans.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says -- specially marked this year -- are the gravesites of three Civil War veteran's who received the Congressional Medal of Honor.  Ecklund adds there are even veteran's from the Revolutionary War buried there.  In addition... Ecklund says the annual Memorial Day Gold Star family recognition will be held at Veteran's Park beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday.  And... she says it's a "very emotional" service for those families whose loved one did not return home.  Again... the Gold Star service begins at 10 a.m. Saturday.  The annual Memorial Day Parade in Jamestown steps off from near Baker Park at 10 a.m. Monday.

Langworthy pushing for Senate approval of Immigration, and House on Energy Choice Act...
Senate Republicans are now unlikely to meet their self-imposed deadline for passing a roughly $70-billion immigration enforcement bill this week.  The A-P reports that the hold-up is over security funding for the White House, and the Trump Administration's nearly $1.8-billion settlement fund that have now effectively derailed progress.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy said Wednesday they were hoping to finalize a reconciliation bill for immigration to keep funding in place through the president's term in office.  Langworthy said he was also hopeful of seeing some movement soon on his Energy Choice Act he introduced nearly a year ago... and, has been trying to get the measure on the House docket so it can be debated and acted on, and he wants to see it "to the finish line."  Otherwise... Republicans were already expected to abandon $1-billion in security money for the White House complex and President Donald Trump's ballroom amid backlash from members of their own party.  

Randolph Cental School student killed in car crash Monday...
The Randolph School District is mourning the loss of a 17-year-old High School Junior killed in a recent car crash.  The Post-Journal is reporting that School Superintendent Kaine Kelly sent a note home with students Tuesday and posted the letter on the district's Facebook Page.  Kelly said -- "we extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family and loved ones.  Our thoughts, prayers and support are with them during this incredibly difficult time."  State Police say the accident occured on Route 62 at Waterboro Hill Road in Conewango shortly before 4 p.m. Monday.  The 17 year-old has been identified in an obituary from the Van Renssalaer and Son Funeral Home as Tyler See.
 
 

Imagine showing up to class one morning and discovering that the entire reason you chose your college just got eliminated. That’s the gut punch SUNY Fredonia students are facing this May as the university announced cuts to 10 undergraduate programs, four graduate programs, and seven minors—all in the name of closing an $8.1 million structural deficit.

The numbers look small on paper. About 111 students are enrolled across these programs as majors, and roughly 60 in associated minors—less than 5% of Fredonia’s total student population, according to university leadership. But percentages don’t tell the real story. For seniors like Tatum Erickson, a Communications-Audio/Radio major and production director for Fredonia Radio Systems, the cuts represent something far more personal: the dismantling of a pathway she specifically chose Fredonia to follow. As Erickson put it plainly, if that major hadn’t existed when she applied, she wouldn’t have come to the school at all.

This isn’t the first time Fredonia has wielded the budget axe. The university previously cut 13 programs, including Philosophy and Early Childhood Education. Hunter Halterman, a 2024 graduate of the Audio/Radio program, watched those earlier cuts unfold. He credits the program’s professors and classes with teaching him the technical backbone of radio work—the deep knowledge about levels, EQing, and production craft that doesn’t materialize out of thin air. Now he’s watching the same major that shaped his career disappear for incoming students. As he sees it, the real question isn’t whether the university can trim 5% of enrollments; it’s whether Fredonia can survive if it keeps betting that cutting programs strengthens the institution rather than weakening it.

Dr. Stephen H. Kolison Jr., SUNY Fredonia’s president, has framed these decisions as necessary medicine. The university is working toward balancing its budget by the 2028-2029 fiscal year, he explained, and holding onto programs with declining student demand only delays the reckoning. He’s also been clear that the on-campus radio station will survive, funded through student accounts rather than the academic department. That’s something, at least.

But the timing—and the messaging—have rubbed students the wrong way. The announcement came after commencement, when most students had scattered across the state and country. For Erickson and others, the decision to release this information after the semester ended felt deliberate, a way to sidestep the campus confrontation that erupted during previous cuts. Kolison pushed back, noting that consultations ran right up through the Friday before the announcement, but his explanation doesn’t change how it landed.

The real worry, though, goes deeper than program cuts or administrative optics. It’s about ripple effects. When technical expertise walks out the door because there’s no major pipeline feeding talent into the radio station and other campus media, something intangible gets lost. The knowledge transfer, the mentorship, the culture of production excellence—that stuff doesn’t happen by accident. And once it’s gone, it’s not always easy to rebuild.

City man arrested on multiple drug possession charges following raid on Euclid Ave. apartment...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested on drug-related charges following a raid on a northside apartment earlier this week.  Jamestown police say members of the JPD Metro Drug Task Force... along with Chautauqua County Sheriffs Office Narcotics Investigators executed a search warrant at Apt. 209 at 28 Euclid Ave. shortly before 1 p.m.  Inside... they located 30 year-old Tyler Perrin... along with a female.  Detectives searched... and found 26.5 grams of methamphetamine... 18.4-grams of fentanyl... 6.6-grams of crack cocaine, digital scales and packaging materials.  They also allegedly found $170 in cash proceeds.  Perrin is charged with four counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of fourth-degree criminal possession... and two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphenalia.  If you have an information about drug or other criminal activity in your area...  call the JPD Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.  Or call the Sheriff's Department Tip line at 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.  

Randolph Central School student killed in car crash that also injures 56 year-old man...
The Randolph School District is mourning the loss of a 17-year-old High School Junior killed in a recent car crash.  The Post-Journal is reporting that School Superintendent Kaine Kelly sent a note home with students Tuesday and posted the letter on the district's Facebook Page.  In it, Kelly said -- "we extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family and loved ones.  Our thoughts, prayers and support are with them during this incredibly difficult time."  State Police say the accident occured on Route 62 at Waterboro Hill Road in Conewango shortly before 4 p.m. Monday.  The 17 year-old was in the car with a 56 year-old man from Randolph.

JPS District voters approve 2026-27 no tax increase budget, and school board members...
Voters in the Jamestown Public School district have approved a $120.8-million budget by about a 4-to-1 margin.  The district reports that 374 people voted yes on the spending plan to 92 against.  District officials were able to bring in another no tax levy increase.  In addition... voters also approved selling excess district property on Harrison Street to the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities, 432-31.  The funding increase for the Prendergast Library was approved, 333-131.  New school board member Carm Proctor was leading vote getter with 388 tallies... and incumbants Paul Abbott and Christine Schnars were both unopposed, and re-elected.  

SWCS voters approved budget, and propositions overwhelmingly...
Voters in the Southwestern Central School District overwhelmingly approved a 2026-27 budget... and, all four propositions on the ballot.  First-year School Superintendent Molly Moore was pleased with the outcome... and expressed her appreciation to the community for it's support... for everything from concerts to the budget.  The $37.1-million spending plan was approved, 225-57.  She also looks forward to beginning the new, $8.1-million capital project... which will mainly involve the elementary school.  It passed, 225-56.  Four new buses were part of a nearly $792,000 transportation proposition... which was approved, 227-54.
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The fourth proposition to fund the Lakewood and Hazeltine Libraries... was adopted, 216-64.  As for the school board... two newcomers -- Zach Agett and Shane Uber have been elected.   Uber was the leading voter getter with 228 votes... while Agett had 223... and, incumbant Troy Durnell received 199.

The other 16 school budgets are adopted... some of the details...
In the Falconer school district... voters approved a 2026-27 budget, 110-15... and, a capital improvement project, 110-15.  Heather Cardot ran unopposed for the school board.

Voters in the Panama school district approved a $14.7-million budget, 100-28... while a transportation proposition was adopted, 92-to-38.  Betsy Eggleston was elected to the school board.

In Bemus Point... district voters approved their budget, 143-53.  They also approved a bus proposition, 133-65... and, a capital project, 141-59.  Michael Burns and Elizabeth Healy were elected to the school board.

At Chautauqua Lake... residents approved the new budget, 199-78... and Travis Bensink... Jennifer Obert and Ken Shearer, Jr. were elected to the school board.

In Clymer... the 2026-27 budget was approved, 86-8... and, Ed Mulkearn and Bethany Collins ran unopposed for the school board.

City man arrested for allegedly trying to enter parked vehicles in northeast area of Jamestown...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly trying to enter parked vehicles on the city's northeast corner.  Jamestown police say they responded to a report of a man attempting to enter vehicles about 1:30 a.m. Wednesday.  Officers located 19 year-old Connor Dale... who matched the description of the suspect.  Police knew of active bench warrants against Dale as well... and, he was found in possession of a narcotic drug.  He was taken into custody on the warrants... and one count of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Dale was held pending arraignment.

Langworthy again blasts state Democrats after new attacks on Corrections Officers at Collins Correctional Facility...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy is blasting Governor Kathy Hochul and State Legislature Democrats for recent attacks on corrections officers.  The latest incident occured at the Collins Correctional Facility.  Langworthy says the attacks reports at Collins -- "is exactly what we have been warning Governor Hochul and Albany Democrats would happen when they rammed through the disastrous HALT Act and ignored repeated warnings about deteriorating safety conditions inside New York prisons."  The Buffalo-area Republican adds that since the HALT Act has been in place... "corrections officers have been treated worse than the violent criminals they are tasked with supervising."
     

Fire damages second-story of Jamestown home Tuesday morning...
An overheated electrical device is the apparent cause of a Tuesday morning house fire in the city of Jamestown.  Fire Battalion Chief Jason Winchester says crews were called to the scene at 40 West Eighth St. -- near Cherry -- shortly before 8 a.m.  Firefighters were able to quickly contain the flames to the second-story of the structure... and the blaze was knocked down in about 20 minutes.  An off-duty shift was called in.  rews were at the scene until just after Noon.  Winchester says two adult occupants suffered smoke inhalation... and one was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital for treatment.  But... there were no other injuries reported.  

Four of 15 people indicted in major drug conspiracy in Erie, Pa. are from Jamestown...
Fifteen people -- four from Jamestown -- have been indicted on federal drug charges in Erie, Pa.  U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti announced the indictments late Monday at Erie City Hall.  Rivetti says the 15 defendants were named in two separate... but related one-count Indictments.  The first of those Indictments charges 13 of them with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute various quantities of fentanyl and/or cocaine.  The second charges two additional defendants with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing cocaine.  The Jamestown defendants include:  40 year-old Abner Cintron-Melendez and 31 year-old Thalia Dalie Lynch... who each face life in prison for allegedly trafficking 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl.  In addition... 47 year-old Javier Carrasquillo and 29 year-old Mariah Arlene Jackson is accused of possessing a quantity of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl... and, cocaine.

City Council approves local law allowing Jamestown to override the state's 2% property tax cap in 2027 - if necessary...
The Jamestown City Council has approved a local law allowing the city to override New York state's 2% property tax cap in the 2027 budget.  However... a long-time Council member says that will only be done if it's needed.  Second-Ward Repubican Tony Dolce spoke prior to last night's vote... and moved to assure residents that they will do the best job to bring in a no tax increase budget -- or as low of an increase -- as possible.  The past couple of years... lawmakers have had to exceed the cap... along with using some reserve funds... to hold down a tax increase.  Dolce says the override is basically a "gimmick" by the state to show fiscal restraint... yet, is now looking to bail out New York City with an additional $4-billion in state aid... while others have to increase taxes by 10% to 20%.  The 7-to-1 vote came following a public hearing earlier in the evening.  At large Democrat Dan Gonzales cast the lone "no" vote.  Lawmakers also approved the city's 2026 Community Development Block Grant and HOME Program Action Plan for 2026.  The city is receiving just under $1.4-million dollars for a number of low to moderate income projects. 

City man arrested for trespassing on Fenner Elem. School grounds...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly trespassing on Fenner Elementary School property last week.  Ellicott Town Police say 62 year-old Thomas Lauer was seen walking on the property during school operation.  Lauer was arrested for third-degree criminal trespass... and, issued an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

More details released on three vehicle crash on Interstate 90 involving car that went until a tractor-trailer...
Two people were hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries following a crash involving three vehicles on I-90 eastbound in the town of Hanover last Thursday.  State Police say a Sports Utility Vehicle... driven by 63-year-old Thomas Davis of Brocton... was traveling in the right lane behind a tractor trailer about 1:30 PM, when he attempted an unsafe lane change. That resulted in the SUV striking a Jeep driven by a 50-year-old woman from Dunkirk, causing both vehicles to spin.  Troopers say the SUV struck the semi's trailer and became stuck underneath, while the Jeep struck the guiderails.  Both local residents were taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital.  Davis was issued several tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations. The driver of the semi -- a 35-year-old man from Ontario, Canada -- was reportedly not injured. 

SUNY JCC holds graduation ceremonies for more than 600 graduates last weekend...
It was college graduation time last weekend across Chautauqua County... including the annual Commencement Ceremonies at SUNY Jamestown Community College.  The majority of the colleges more than 600 graduates from the classes of December of 2025... and, Spring of 2026 received degrees and certificates at JCC's Physical Education Complex last Saturday.  Student Speaker... Miguel Cocerez... majored in Health Information Technology.  He talked about leaving Puerto Rico as a young child and, trying to adapt to a new country, culture and language.  Cocerez remembered first attending school in Buffalo and not being able to understand English... but was always encouraged by his grandmother.  He says his grandmother always told him "you can do this."  Cocerez says by the first grade, he was able to speak, understand and write in English.  He also spent 20 years away from school before coming to JCC... and, earning his degree.  College President Daniel DeMarte congratulated him... and, the other graduates... noting the Class of 2026 both "impressed and inspired" him by rising to and meeting challenges along the way. 

Investigation ongoing into incident outside fast food restaurant in Falconer...
The investigation is continuing into an alleged altercation involving three juveniles in the village of Falconer last Saturday afternoon.  Ellicott Town Police were called to the Burger King Restaurant on East Main Street shortly after 2 p.m. on a report of a person with a weapon.  However... when they arrived no weapon was found.  Officers detained the three juveniles during the initial investigation... but, no charges have been filed.  Ellicott Police were assisted by State Police and Jamestown police at the scene.  No one was hurt.

Jamestown woman gets probation for assaulting a federal officer...
A city woman has been sentenced to one-year of probation for assaulting a federal officer back in 2022.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that 30 year-old Alyssa Sheldon... who had been convicted of assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer... received the term of probation in U.S. District Court in Buffalo.  On May 17 of 2022... prosecutors say an arrest warrant was executed, and Sheldon was taken into custody.  The following day... she made an initial appearance the U.S. Courthouse in Buffalo... and, during the proceeding, she was remanded into custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  While being escorted back to her cell... Sheldon tried to escape... and, resisted the escorting officer.  She also kicked him below the waist... and, tried to spit in his face as she continued to resist.

City Council to hold two public hearing prior to voting session tonight...
The Jamestown City Council has a busy agenda for it's May voting session tonight... with two public hearings on the docket.  Lawmakers will first hold a hearing at 6:30 p.m. on the proposed local law that would allow council to override the state's 2% property tax cap in the 2027 budget.  While saying they will likely approve the measure... council leaders also say they wont's use it if it's not needed.  The second hearing, at 6:45 p.m., will be on the city's 2026 Community Development Block Grant and HOME Program Action Plan for 2026.  The city is receiving just under $1.4-million for a number of low to moderate income projects.  The regular voting session will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

CHQ Chamber able to visit more than 600 small businesses in county during Small Business Week...
The CHQ Chamber set an ambitious goal of visiting at least 500 businesses during its celebration of National Small Business Week last week.  However... Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Heitzenrater says the organization stopped by more than 600 small businesses throughout Chautauqua County during the week of May 4th through 8th.  Heitzenrater says members wanted to thank those businesses for the work they do for their communities... and it's important for them to stop in an say thanks, and give them a small gift of appreciation.  He says owners and employees, in general, were very surprised and thankful for the Chamber's visits.  He says they told those business leaders that they just wanted to say hello... and, express their appreciation to those businesses. 

Media One's sale to Glenora Radio Network now official...
Since taking the air for the first time in December of 1924... WJTN has operated under just three different primary ownership groups -- until this past Friday.  The Glenora Radio Network, a division of Lilly Broadcasting headquartered in Erie, Pa., officially closed on the purchase of WJTN and its five sister stations broadcasting across southwestern New York and northwest Pennsylvania.  Media One Radio Group purchased WJTN and WWSE in 2002 from James Broadcasting... WHUG, WKSN and WQFX from Vox Allegany in 2004... and, WKZA-FM from Cross Country Communications in 2018.  After more than 60 years in the radio business... majority owner and CEO James Embrescia said it was simply "time" to hand Jamestown’s heritage stations -- along with its companion stations in northeast Ohio -- into a new era of local broadcasting.  WJTN General Manager Andrew Hill say's "local" remains the key.  Hill will continue overseeing the day-to-day operations of Jamestown’s six stations, in addition to five stations in eastern Ohio that were brokered in the deal as well as three "cousin" stations in Warren, and one station broadcasting from downtown Erie.  He says Embrescia could have sold the stations to an IHeart or Cumulus that doesn't pay attention to local broadcasting, but, did not, and that's good for the local communities.  Hill adds that there are no immediate plans from the new ownership group for a major overhaul at any of the stations.  However, over time, he is excited about the opportunity to reintroduce some heritage programming concepts while also exploring new ideas for local radio listeners, including new online listening opportunities.  The parent company of the Glenora Radio Network, Lilly Broadcasting, currently operates more than 40 television stations broadcasting across the continental U.S., as well as in Guam and Puerto Rico - but "home" is the tri-state area where their primary focus will continue. 

 

City man accused of threatening two people with a knife during a domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly threatening two people with a knife during a domestic dispute late Wednesday night.  City police were called to a northside address about 11:30 p.m. for an earlier domestic incident.  Officers say their investigation showed that 51 year-old Peter Samuelson had pulled the knife on the two people... and, he was also in violation of an order of protection.  Samuelson was arrested for first and second-degree criminal contempt... and two counts of second-degree menacing.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Man from Jamestown arrested as fugitive from justice from Pennsylvania...
A Jamestown man has been arrested on the city's northside for allegedly being a fugitive from justice.  Jamestown police say officers on patrol spotted 40 year-old Esteban Cordova about 7:30 p.m. Thursday in the area... and, knew there was a warrant for his arrest in Bucks County, Pa.  Police took Cordova into custody... and, took him to the city jail pending arraignment and extradition.  

SUNY graduations to take place at JCC, Fredonia, on Friday and Saturday...
It's college graduation weekend in Chautauqua County -- both in Jamestown and Fredonia.  SUNY Jamestown Community College will first hold it's Cattaraugus County Graduation tonight at the Olean YMCA... where nursing student Alexandria Goodyear will be the featured speaker.  Graduation at the Jamestown campus begins at 10 a.m. tomorrow at the Physical Education Complex.  The featured speaker will be Health Information Technology graduate, Miguel Cocerez.  The SUNY College at Fredonia will have it's two commencement ceremonies tomorrow... one in the morning, and one other in the afternoon.

State Comptroller's audit blames inaction by village trustees for Fredonia's fiscal instabililty; Ferguson responds...
Inaction by Fredonia village trustees -- past and present -- appears to have played a significant role in the village's fiscal instability.  According to the findings of a New York State Comptroller's Office audit published this week...  trustees did not adopt structurally balanced, realistic budgets; did not develop and adopt multi-year financial and capital plans; and did not verify annual statements and annual financial reports in a timely manner.  The audit period was June 1 of 2019 to August 21 of, 2025.  Regarding the AFRs, Mayor Mike Ferguson says they were late because they had not received their third-party audit results yet... and, once they had them they provided them to the Comptroller's Office.  He says they received a warning, but, were not fined.  The report shows that the village ran a deficit in five of its past six fiscal years... including a $226,884 deficit in 2024-2025.  Ferguson says the overspending last year was due to a lack of reserve funds to do needed paving and infrastructure work.  He says the village has instituted corrective action that's incorporated in its 2026-2027 budget after meeting with Comptroller's Office officials a few months ago.

Three suffer only minor injuries in State Thruway accident in which an SUV went under a tractor-trailer...
Only minor injuries were reported after the driver of an Sports Utility Vehicle saw their vehicle get pinned underneath a tractor-trailer on the state Thruway in the town of Hanover.  Crews from the Bay Creek Fire District -- a combination of Silver Creek and Sunset Bay -- responded to the scene in the eastbound lanes of the I-90 shortly before 1:45 p.m. Thursday.  Sunset Bay Fire officials say on arrival, crews learned that there were three vehicles involved in the incident.  The driver of the vehicle that got pinned suffered only "minor bumps and bruises," and the other two drivers involved suffered just minor injuries.

Jamestown man to ride bike 1,200 miles to call attention to need of many school students for proper footwear...
Seeing a student wearing an old pair of torn and beat-up shoes has inspired a city man to collect footwear and raise money so others can have them.  Jamestown's Bradley Barmore was teaching a gym class at the Sherman Central Schools five years ago... when he saw one student without adequate footwear.  Barmore says he asked the kid if he had a better pair of shoes... and, he said no.  He went to a nearby Dollar General Store and bought the student a pair of $20 shoes, and his face lit up when he got them.  With that... Barmore says he began planning a 1,200 mile bike ride to raise awarness... money... and, lightly-worn shoes for kids who need them.  He says the "Barmore's Brix 4 Kix" initiative will take him from the Tim Horton's in Brooklyn Square to Clarion, Pennsylvania this coming Sunday morning, May 17.  He'll be there from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. collecting shoes and giving away coffee, ete.  He'll then do the 200-mile round trip... and, will also do it for the next five days.  Barmore who is now a personal trainer... and philanthropist... says he's hoping to raise more attention to the plight of school students whose families can't afford or get good footwear.
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Barmore's initial program was a community "Mud run and walk" fundraiser that raised more than $2,500 and collected over 2,000 pairs of shoes in one day.  Since then, with support from E2M Premium, Soles4Souls, and local supporters, the initiative has helped raise more than $20,000 and collected nearly 10,000 pairs of shoes for individuals and families in need.  For more information... go on-line to bradinspires.com.

 

Jamestown couple arrested for alleged child abuse in town of Busti...
A man and woman from Jamestown face multiple child abuse-related charges following an incident Tuesday afternoon in the town of Busti.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they arrested 64 year-old David Attard... and, 62 year-old Maryanne Attard... following a recent investigation.  Officers say they charged David Attard with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child and second-degree harassment.  Police add that Maryanne was charged with two counts of child endangerment.  Both were issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court at a later date.

City woman arrested as fugitive from justice from New Mexico...
A woman from Jamestown wanted in New Mexico has been arrested on the city's southside as a fugitive from justice.  Jamestown police say they spotted 46 year-old Deborah Rowland during a joint patrol with the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday afternoon.  Police say  Rowland... who is wanted by the Rio Rancho Police Department... was taken into custody without incident... and is being held in the city jail pending arraignment and extradition to New Mexico.

Jamestown to host annual "Hands On" Spring clean-up on Saturday beginning at 8 a.m...
The city of Jamestown's annual Spring clean-up... known as "Hands On Jamestown..." is back again this coming weekend.  This year... it's known as "Hands On Neigborhoods..." as it will have a focus on neighborhood areas.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says there will also be a focus on downtown... and, the riverwalk... which usually needs some clean-up on and around the railroad tracks.  Ecklund says some youth and church organizations will also be involved in the program... which will kick-off with registration and a short kick-off event at City Hall beginning at 8 a.m.  She says she'll only be there a short time because she'll be off to SUNY Jamestown Community College for it's annual Commencement Ceremonies... which begin at 10 a.m. at the JCC Physical Education Complex.

Gillibrand urges end to war in Iran to stop rise in gas prices, and other staples of living...
New York's Junior U.S. Senator says residents are struggling with rising gasoline prices... and, other costs amid the war with Iran.  During a virtual press conference Wednesday... Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand slammed President Donald Trump for causing the highest gas prices in years... and, called for an immediate end to the president’s war in Iran, which she says is directly responsible for raising costs for hardworking Americans... and, threatening global gasoline supplies.  In fact... Gillibrand says -- on average -- New York's are paying nearly 50% more for gasoline than they did before the war.  She adds that's not all... inflation is causing a double hit with it increasing to levels not seen in three years.  Gillibrand says it's compounded by the fact wages aren't keeping up with those increases.  She adds that -- "every commute to work, every ride to a doctor’s appointment, and every carpool to school costs 50% more today than it did just a year ago due to skyrocketing gas prices."
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In an effort to bring down gas prices... the Senator says she's agreeable with suspending the federal gasoline tax while the global gas supply is strained.  That would reportedly save Americans about 18-cents a gallon for regular, unleaded gas.  President Trump has said he would like to see a suspension of the tax... but, he would need Congressional approval to do it.  Right now... it looks like many are on board.  

Langworthy announces $5.7-million federal grants for Jamestown Airport runway project...
The Chautauqua County Airport near Jamestown is receiving $5.7-million in federal funding for it's major runway rehabilitation and modernization project.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy has announced the funding late Wednesday... which is being awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Improvement Program.  Langworthy says it will suport the final phase of the project... which includes rehabilitation of just over 4,000 feet of existing paved surface on "Runway 13/31" to maintain structural integrity, minimize foreign object debris, and extend the runway’s operational lifespan.  He says the grant will also fund reconstruction of runway lighting and signage systems that have reached the end of their useful life.  The Buffalo-area Republican says "maintaining safe and reliable infrastructure at our regional airports is critical to economic development, public safety, and connectivity across Western New York."  

"Not Fred Fest" sees 37 arrests during first weekend of May...
The recent enforcement activity surrounding "Not Fred Fest" in Fredonia resulted in a total of 37 arrests. The Fredonia Police Department says the majority of the enforcement actions during the weekend of May 1st through 3rd involved open container violations, underage possession of alcohol, and vehicle and traffic tickets.  The Sheriff's Office, State Police and University Police teamed up with Fredonia Police on the enforcement effort.  One incident of note was a pursuit of a vehicle that was stolen out of the Village of Fredonia.  Chautauqua County Sheriff's deputies saw the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on Route 60 in the Town of Charlotte shortly before 4:30 a.m. Sunday.  Deputies tried to stop the vehicle, but it fled.  The pursuit went through the towns of Gerry and Ellicott and ended when it crashed on North Main Street near Sixth Street in Jamestown.  Sheriff Jim Quattrone says three 17-year-olds were in the vehicle at the time of the crash.  The juveniles were later located and detained, and charges are pending.

 
 

New contempt charge lodged against Westfield man accused of trying to murder a woman last March...
A new charge has been placed against the Westfield man being held in connection with a shooting incident back on Mar. 7.  Sheriff's officers have now charged 53 year-old Jahmaul Johnson with second-degree criminal contempt... but, details were not released.  Back in March... he allegedly shot a woman in the chest, and then fled the scene.  Deputies say Johnson allegedly led them on a pursuit before his vehicle crashed into a ditch.  Police searched for the man... triggering a shelter in place in that area before he was caught.  Johnson is being held on $1-million bail on charges including second-degree attempted murder, multiple weapons charges, and multiple counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  Westfield police initially received a call from the woman... and, a second from her children... who allegedly witnessed the shooting.  Johnson pleaded not guilty... and, faces up to 25 years on the attempted murder charge... and up to 15 years on the weapons charges, with the possibility that these terms will run consecutively.

City man arrested for allegedly threatening another person with a knife...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly threatening another person with a knife on the city's northside.  Jamestown Police say they were called to a residence about 5 p.m. Tuesday on a report of a person with a weapon.  Officers say they found that 39 year-old Douglas Puckett had theatened the other person with the knife... but, no one was hurt.  Puckett was arrested for second-degree menacing... and, held pending arraignment.  

Ribbon is cut on new and improved, JHS cafeteria...
The ribbon has been cut on the new, brightened and expanded Jamestown High School Cafeteria.  School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker and High School Principal Allyson Smith had the honors in cutting the ribbon on the new cafeteria in the same part of JHS.  Dr. Whitaker says he's already given a few tours... and, the reactions have been the same.  Alumni and others have been "absolutely stunned by the beauty and utility of what kids are going to have."  Project Manager Rick Krause from Young-and-Wright Architectural says they began work on the project in 2021... and, says the project had many parts to it... including how many students will be served, or be in the cafeteria at one time, to how to raise the ceiling.  Principal Allyson Smith says plans were to have students be able to use the new cafeteria on Wednesday.  The new cafeteria is part of the overall... just over $83-million renovation project at Jamestown High School. 

City woman arrested as fugitive from Pa...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested as a fugitive from justice after she was spotted by city police on the northside.  Jamestown police say a patrol spotted 46 year-old Jessica Wolfgang about 9:30 p.m. Tuesday... and, were aware of a warrant for her arrest by Pennsylvania State Parole.  Officers say Wolfgang was taken into custody... and, taken to the city jail pending her arraignment and extradition.  

Borrello calls new "Automatic Voter Registration Act" a "serious threat" to election integrity...  
Democrats in the New York State Senate have passed a bill that would provide automatic voter registration for those applying for or re-enrolling in Medicaid... or applying for documentation at the DMV.  GOP lawmakers, including Senator George Borrello, say the measure poses a "serious threat" to election integrity in the state.  Borrello noted a recent finding from the State Comptroller's Office that $1.2-billion in Medicaid payments were made to out-of-state residents... which he says is the equivolency of 150,000 people.  Borrello, who is on the Senate Elections Committee, adds that Republicans offered an amendment that would require a valid government-issued photo ID in order to cast a ballot.  However, the Sunset Bay Republican says every Democrat in the chamber rejected it.  Borrello says it's an example of a policy his colleagues on the left are advancing "that will further undermine public confidence in the integrity of our elections."

Career archives of Mel Brooks to soon be housed at National Comedy Center...
The National Comedy Center in Jamestown will soon house the career archives of comedic legend Mel Brooks.  It's another feather in the cap for the center... which is already home to the archives of Brook's long-time friend and comedy partner, Carl Reiner... and, Joan Rivers... among others.  The Center says nearly 150,000 documents... and more than 5,000 photographs will be preserved at the center.  Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson says the Brooks archives are "one of the most comprehensive collections of comedic creative material ever preserved, encompassing works that sit at the core of America’s cultural identity."  She says many items have never been seen... and, they offer "offer an unparalleled record of Brooks’ creative life and the development of works that transformed American comedy and culture... including Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, The Producers, Silent Movie, and, History of the World, Part I."  Brooks says he's proud that his accomplishments and that they'll be kept at the National Comedy Center.  He adds "I’m honored that my contributions will be preserved for future generations at the National Comedy Center -- especially because it’s a place that was meaningful to my best friend Carl Reiner, who believed in the importance of preserving comedy’s history.  I know he’d be happy that our work will be around for the next 2000 years, or maybe even more."

 

 
 

Gas prices in Jamestown area up at least 20 cents a gallon over past week...
Gasoline prices in the Jamestown-area are up at least 20 cents a gallon for regular, unleaded fuel over the past week... to about $4.60.  The ongoing stalemate over the Strait of Hormuz eased with negotiations on track until last weekend... and, that relieved the pressure somewhat.  However... the AAA East Central Gas Price report says the national average increase seven-cents over last week to $4.50 a gallon.  Officials say that's 39 cents more than a month ago... and, $1.39 more than a year ago.  Some locations in the Jamestown-area are as high as $4.69 a gallon.  The Energy Information Administration reports that gasoline demand decreased last week from 9.1-million barrels per day to 8.81-million.  Total domestic gas supply decreased from 222.3-million barrels to 219.8-million.   Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.6 million barrels per day.  The price per barrel of crude oil is still hovering around $100.

City woman arrested for allegedly allowing young child to wander outside...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly letting her child wander around unsupervised in a southside neighborhood.  City police say they were called to the location shortly before 9 p.m. last Wednesday... and, found that Shalena Freeman was the adult responsible for the child.  Officers also found that Freeman was wanted on multiple Felony arrest warrants.  She resisted arrest... but, was eventually taken into custody on charges including endangering the welfare of a child... resisting arrest... on on the Felony warrants.  She was taken to the City Jail pending arraignment... and, the child was uninjured and turned over to a family member.

Jamestown man arrested for alleged break-in, and assault...
A man from Jamestown faces multiple charges after allegedly breaking into a home on the city's westside last week... and, attacking another person.  Jamestown police were called to the scene of a recent domestic incident about 11:30 p.m. last Wednesday.  Their investigation led to the arrest of 34 year-old Josean Martinez... who is accused of breaking into the building through a side door... damaging property inside... and, getting into the physical altercation with the victim.  Officers say they found Martinez at a nearby home... and, he was arrested without further incident.  He was charged with Felony Aggravated Criminal Contempt... second-degree burglary... third-degree criminal mischief... third-degree assault... criminal obstruction of breathing... and, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  Martinez was held pending his arraignment. 

Wendel critical of local hotel operators for allowing homeless to live in rooms in unkept -- and, in some cases -- deplorable conditions...
Deplorable conditions reported in two of the hotels being used to house the homeless in Chautauqua County has forced the closure of one... and, partial closure of the other.  However... it appears there is blame on both sides of the matter.  That from County Executive P.J. Wendel... who says there are problems with the homeless themselves... but, it's moreso with hotel operators who are getting state money to take them in.  Wendel says they're taking in those people... but, rooms are not being kept up.  He says Social Service officials found human and animal feces in some rooms, and plumbing that wasn't working at the Clarion Pointe on Route 60 in the town of Ellicott... and, it was partially closed due to those conditions.  He says the homeless there were relocated to the Quality and Budget Inns in Falconer.  Wendel says... if the county were able to do it in one, centralized facility, they could better regulate it... and provide needed "wrap-around services."  Wendel says the hotels are being paid $101 a day by the state to house the homeless that are sent to them.  
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Another problem with housing the homeless has been some state parolees who have been mixed in with the homeless.  Wendel says that's become an issue with the proximity of some locations to schools.  He his comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Extension being sought on timeline for Dunkirk to issue bonds to pay debts...
There's a bill in Albany that would extend the city of Dunkirk's timeline for issuing municipal bonds to pay off its debt.  State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor says the original city of Dunkirk Fiscal Recovery Act that was passed two years ago required the State Comptroller to certify the city's debt.  However... the city's audit process wasn't completed until last December.  Molitor says the measure he and Senator George Borrello are carrying also provides a few "tweaks" to the previous bill... and, one requires the Common Council to formally ask for the extension.  The legislation would also shift financial oversight responsibilities from the now-defunct elected treasurer's position to the mayor.  Meanwhile, Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz says she has some concerns about the legislation... including compliance with the city's collective bargaining agreements.  Wdowiasz says there are agencies in place to ensure the city does that... so she's not sure it needs to be part of the extension.  Wdowiasz also questions the requirement that the Common Council pass a local law in order for the bill to advance, which she calls "unprecedented."  During last week's council meeting, Councilman at-Large Nick Weiser said there would be a review of the proposed legislation during a Finance Committee meeting.