Despite seven scheduled prelminary hearings (which would've been nine if attorneys for two of the defendants hadn't requested last minute continuances, much to the frustration of the arresting officers) and a 1543-B hearing, today's Criminal Day at 15-1-04 dragged on due to the fact that three preliminary hearings took place, with the last one being a very contentous matter. One case was withdrawn, one case was waived to Common Pleas Court after a failure to comply with an summary agreement, one case was continued to next week due to a scheduling snafu, and one defendant failed to appear for court after his arrest last week...
The first hearing was the matter of Commonwealth vs. William John Brown III (15-1-04, CR-0000198-07). Brown, 25, of West Chester, faced charges of Simple Assault, Harassment, Disorderly Conduct, and Public Drunkeness. On June 17 at 01:55, Brown's alleged victim testified that she and a group of friends left Baxter's after a night of drinking. As she left, the defendant was arguing with other people after being ejected from the bar when he directed a vulgarity towards her. After a brief interaction, the victim attempted to leave the area to avoid escalating the problem. At that point, Brown allegedly threw a punch at one of the victim's male friends, then punched her in the chest. The victim testified that she fell backwards and hit the ground and was kicked and stomped upon while on the ground. The victim positively identified Brown after he left the scene and was apprehended by WCPD officers. The victim suffered injuries to her arm, chest, and shoulder, however did not require hospitalization. Brown was held for trial on all counts and is presently free on $5,000 unsecured bail...
In the second hearing, Tonya Renee Thompson, 34, of West Chester, faced two counts of Aggravated Assault, two counts of Simple Assault, and one count of Recklessly Endangering Another Person after a domestic incident earlier this month. On August 7 at 22:10, Thompson's boyfriend testified that he was at his house on the 200 block of South Matlack Street when Thompson allegedly struck him in the head with a glass bottle of vodka while she was intoxicated. The victim testified that he suffered a cut over his forehead that required 5 stitches to close and that he had lost consciousness for about 2-to-3 minutes after the assault. He also testified, however, that he did not believe the assault to be intentional. As such, one of the Aggravated Assault counts was dismissed, specifically, sub-section A4 of Title 18, Section 2702 (Aggravated Assault) which requires the defendant to "(attempt) to cause or intentionally or knowingly causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon"; the remaining counts were held for Common Pleas Court.
Thompson had been arrested on Wednesday on a detainer from the Adult Probation Department, however, after consulting with the bail agency and with APO, Judge Knapp modified Thompson's bail to $5,000 unsecured. The bail conditions were modified from "no contact" with the victim to "no criminal contact"...
The final hearing of the day turned out to be the most contentious. For the third time in two weeks, Michelle Lee "Doobie" Adderton appeared in front of Judge Knapp; Adderton faced 10 counts of Intimidation of a Witness relating to a preliminary hearing held two weeks ago (15-1-04, CR-0000278-07). On two separate occasions, Adderton allegedly made threats to a witness who had ultimately testified against her and co-defendant Shabazz Ray on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver.
On August 15 at around 15:00, Cpl. Josh Lee testified that the witness was approached by Adderton in the center of town the previous day. The witness alleged that Adderton said that if he testified at that preliminary hearing, she told him, "You would get yours." The witness interpreted that statement to be a threat. The witness indicated he had expressed fear over his well being as a result of that interaction. Two days later, on the day of the preliminary hearing at Judge Knapp's court, the witness reported to Ofc. Christopher Craig that he was again approached by Adderton, who had allegedly made a death threat to the witness. Both officers indicated that the witness' statements to police on both occasions were recorded. The witness did not appear for court today out of concern for his safety, however it was implied that he would be available to testify at Common Pleas Court if needed.
After heated arguements from both sides, Judge Knapp held all counts for Common Pleas Court. From there, things got really heated as the issue of bail was addressed. After nearly an hour of back and forth debate between both counsels, the bail agency and Judge Knapp, it was agreed that Adderton's bail be modified from the current $5,000 cash bail to 10 percent of $10,000 with electronic home monitoring which would restrict her to either her place of employment or her residence.
The pressing arguement against modifying the bail was the fact that the bail agency made clear to Adderton that she was to have no contact with any witness involved in the drug case, and that she had violated that order with the new allegations. Adderton's public defender, however argued that her client was gainfully employed and that there were concerns about the care of her two children. Perhaps she should've thought about her children when she was allegedly committing these crimes leading to the three cases, but that's another story.
The Commonwealth indicated that they would seek to file an expeditied bail motion in Common Pleas Court which, timing permitting, would be heard in front of Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. as part of his Miscellaneous Case List next week. Based on a preliminary glance at the Misc. List, it appears that matter could be addressed as early as Wedensday...
Meanwhile, in other court matters...
Kurt David Christman, 20, of Wyomissing, Berks County, was scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing on charges of Aggravated Assault, Simple Assualt, Escape, Fleeing/Eluding Police, and related offenses after last week's chase through the borough. Last Friday, he was arrainged by Judge Knapp and ordered held on $5,000 cash bail, which was posted that day. Christman, however, failed to appear for his hearing today. As such, his bail was forfeited and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest (15-1-04, CR-0000286-07)...
Joshua Michael McNally, 25, of Glenmoore, had appeared in court for a compliance hearing on a summary disposition agreement on charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, Disorderly Conduct and Public Drunkeness. McNally had failed to comply with the community service component of the agreement; initially he was given a one-week continuance, however Judge Knapp later reversed that decision and automatically waived his case to Common Pleas Court (15-1-04, CR-0000094-07). McNally remain free on $1,500 unsecured bail...
That wrapped up what started off as a routine day at 15-1-04 but ended up with some fireworks. Not a bad way to start the Labor Day weekend...
Friday, August 31, 2007
Hudson Valley Unemployment rates
Westchester Job Market Update
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Tarrytown, NY Jobs
The village of Tarrytown is adjacent to the Hudson River. Tarrytown serves as the headquarters for the following large companies: Hitachi, Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics, Kraft Foods, and PGMS, among others.
Emisphere Technologies, Inc has openings for a Sr. Scientist Process Development - Chemistry and for a Project Manager position.
Other Tarrytown openings include: Marketing Manager, Financial Specialist, Master Planner.
Click here for a complete listing of Tarrytown NY Jobs.
Emisphere Technologies, Inc has openings for a Sr. Scientist Process Development - Chemistry and for a Project Manager position.
Other Tarrytown openings include: Marketing Manager, Financial Specialist, Master Planner.
Click here for a complete listing of Tarrytown NY Jobs.
Somers, NY Jobs
The suburban town of Somers is about a 50 minute Metro Commuter Railroad ride from Grand Central Station. Somers is known as the 'cradle of the American circus', as it is where Mr. Bailey brought his first African Elephant, named 'Old Bet.'
IBM has 2 job openings in Somers, one for an engineer/program admin, another for an accountant co-op.
Gary Lerman, CPA, PLLC has an opening for a staff accountant.
Click here for a complete listing of Somers, NY Jobs.
IBM has 2 job openings in Somers, one for an engineer/program admin, another for an accountant co-op.
Gary Lerman, CPA, PLLC has an opening for a staff accountant.
Click here for a complete listing of Somers, NY Jobs.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Restoring Quality Education To Prisoners Makes Sense
By Jeffrey Deskovic
College In Prison
Having college education available to prisoners was one of the best ideas ever to be put into practice in terms
of rehabilitation. It was truly a case of a win-win scenario. Firstly, the recidivism rate of those who had a college
education was significantly lower than those who had not received one. The reason for that is obvious: It was equipping prisoners with the education that they needed in order to be gainfully employed.
It was also deepening their level of thinking, showing them alternatives to crime, thus making it less likely that
they would return to crime. It made robberies, burglaries and drug dealing less likely, dramatically reducing the number of future victims and the $40,000/yr. cost of re-incarceration. Thus, far from coddling criminals, college education was a powerful crimeprevention program. It also provided the Parole Board with a good indicator
as to which prisoners were committed to rehabilitation. After all, the road to a college degree was both long and arduous.
Only the truly committed would embark upon a journey which would take two years to get an Associates Degree, and four years to a B.A. The participating colleges also benefited. Some professors even brought
their students into the facility for a joint class in which both students behind the prison wall and those who were free were able to conduct dialogue, and enjoy an educational experience. Many teachers expressed their great personal satisfaction from teaching in prison, and often remarked that the students in prison frequently asked the most questions, indicating they were really getting into the material and thinking about it.
My Personal Experience And What I Witnessed
Back in 1993, I was still wrongfully incarcerated. Having obtained my GED a year prior to that, I decided
to avail myself of the college program. My thinking is that I wanted to learn all that I could while I was there, so as to not make my time in prison a total waste. I figured that by obtaining a college degree I could be that much further ahead when I was released, as opposed to starting college from scratch. I was able, to a certain extent, to leave the prison mentality for a few hours. Although this self-delusion did not work all the time and had varying degrees of success, it was better than nothing.
College opened up new worlds to me, broadening my horizons. In a very real sense I learned how to really think.
I picked up the trait of posing questions to myself and really digging deeply for the answers. I learned to think critically. I began to read, opening up my mind. What’s more, I saw that schooling had a similar effect on the other inmates. I could see how their thinking changed by the way they talked and acted. Many inmates went from talking about running the streets, selling drugs, and street life, to discussing school work and hopes for future careers once released and armed with a degree.
We occupied a cell block which was set aside specifically to house those who were in college. This eliminated a lot of the normal noise attendant in the prison, such as blasting radios, and yelling out of the cell bars, because many were studying, and because everyone had respect for their fellow students. Several of the normal prison dynamics were altered to some extent. For example, people who normally would not talk to each other would debate viewpoints in the classroom, and would also help tutor each other. The need to guard oneself was relaxed as learning became the primary concern rather than survival.
One still had to be alert, but it was much less pronounced. I cannot forget the mindset of some of the prisoners that I had talked to, who had not gone to college, but who had expressed to me that they felt no hope they could be able to support themselves and/or their kids, through a lawful job. After all, as they put it, “I have no education. What can I do? Who is going to give me a job which pays me good money?” But, when I saw
some of those very same people in college, their attitude had totally changed.
The civilian college personnel served as exemplars, just by coming to and from work. Many saw them and vocalized the idea that “If he can make it, so can I”- meaning make ends meet by having a career that didn’t involve crime, while remaining free. Others spoke of careers that they hoped to have upon release. In many
instances, it involved diverting people, in one way or another, from going to prison. I was happy for them. For many of those who had come from tragic backgrounds, with such conditions as one or more parents either on drugs or selling drugs, in prison, who had dropped out of school and were running the streets, and in many instances from broken homes, that was all they knew. For them to reach beyond that and see a productive, crime-free future was tremendous, and I vicariously, silently celebrated for them.
I personally did not need the college education in order to be able to lead a crime-free life. I was innocent,
and had not committed a crime in the first place. But I knew that acquiring the education that I did would prove
helpful if and when I were cleared. Now that I am cleared, I am not as far off from graduating as I would have
been if college had not been available to me. I was able to acquire 90 credits while incarcerated.
One of the ways that it has helped me is that I am able to speak and write about things that I have personally experienced and witnessed, and, I can advocate for changes, in a much more articulate way than I could otherwise.
Negative Consequences of College Removal
As I have mentioned in previous articles, when George Pataki became governor in 1995, he cut the funding
for college in prison, and as a result of that the colleges left. There were many bad effects from this. It left prisoners, such as myself, who had completed some college, unable to graduate. In addition, it really killed the motivation of many students to do their best in the classes that they were already enrolled in. Also, the level of prison violence steadily rose. An idle mind, as the saying goes, is the devil’s playground. The greater the level of education, the more clearly consequences of actions could be seen, as could alternative ways of dealing with things other than violently.
The correction officers felt that those prisoners that were in college or were college-educated were more manageable, because the prisoners did not want to get into trouble which would result in missing the college semester. Prisoners could not see where they really had a lot to lose in the short term. The positive environment, in which the prisoners were tutoring and encouraging each other to do well in school, was lost. The prisoners who were formerly housed in the same cell block, were now dispersed, so there were fewer positive people to be around.
Upgrading The Vocational Shops
There are basic vocational classes offered in prison, on a variety of different topics. Some of the classes include
plumbing, carpentry, food service, welding, and general business. The underlying reasoning is that, just as in society, not everybody will want to go to college, and will instead prefer to learn a trade; therefore training is offered to equip prisoners with the skills that they need to get a job upon release so that they have a way to earn a living without returning to crime. To be sure, these are good topics. However, when it comes down to taking the classes themselves, there are a number of problems which render them ineffective.
Firstly, the class materials are outdated. People are taught the basics of how things used to be done years earlier.
This has the effect of being useless to the prisoners once they are released and attempt to enter the workforce. For example, I completed 6 certificates in plumbing; however almost none of my training pertained to PVC pipe, which is the type of piping used today, and only a little bit about copper pipe. Instead, most of it was about metal pipe, which is not used anymore. Therefore, my “training” is useless to me out here. If I attempted to get a job as a plumber, I would have to start at the exact same place that someone else would who had not received any training at all. Therefore, the curriculum in all of the vocational shops should be updated to reflect the latest ways and means in the various trades, and the necessary upto-date equipment should be provided.
Secondly, the instructors themselves are, in general, not very much into what they are teaching. Their attitude
by and large is that they are only there to get a paycheck, and they do very little teaching. It is not uncommon
for them to come to work, and sit in their office in the shop the entire day, and maybe answer a few questions, and other than that actually do no teaching.
We should only hire and keep employed those instructors who really want to do the job they are hired to do:
instruct the prisoners. In addition, to ensure that learning is taking place in the shops, there should be oversight of
the instructors. Lastly, prisoners should be tested monthly to ensure that they are doing their part as well to learn.
Thirdly, there are people in some vocational classes who are only in the class because they were forced into it
by the committee who assigns the assignments.
Since they are not interested in learning the material, they are sometimes disruptive and a distraction to others in the class. The practice of forcing prisoners into vocational shops should end, particularly when it is considered
that there are waiting lists of prisoners waiting to be assigned to vocational classes. Instead, something else should be found for them to do, rather than have them take up space in a class which someone else who wants to learn
could occupy.
Fourthly, many vocational classes have become too prison-orientedmeaning all that the instructors and prison
administration care about is whether the prisoners are able to do tasks that the prison needs to run, rather than focusing on skills needed on the outside. For example, a food service certificate is awarded to those who are working in the kitchen and mess hall. But instead of teaching the prisoners how to prepare meals, “cooks” merely take food which has been prepared in another facility and reheat it. Does that sound as though that would give them training on how to work as a short order cook, or in a restaurant?
As another example, there was a program which was designed to teach prisoners how to clean various surfaces,
like one might if he was working at a cleaning agency. But instead of teaching how to clean a lot of different services, in everyday practice it was limited to just those surfaces found in the prison, with “projects” consisting of making areas of the prison shiny so that when the Albany big wigs showed up, it would appear as though cleanliness standards were being met, although after they left everything would go back to business as usual.
Fifthly, in a process began under the Pataki administration, some vocational shops began to be phased out through attrition. Classes such as typing and masonry simply ceased to be offered. When an instructor would retire or die, the class would close and not be offered anymore, thereby not only preventing others from receiving the training, but also leaving those who had already invested time and effort in the class learning some things, dangling in the wind, unable to complete the class, thus wasting their time and taxpayers money.
Conclusion
Providing quality education to prisoners is an example of a win-win situation for everybody. It provides the prisoners with hope for a crime free future by equipping them with skills needed to get a non-dead-end job through which they can support themselves, kids, and spouses without a return to crime. Secondly, by reducing the temptation to return to crime, it prevents further victimization. Thirdly, it saves taxpayers money: instead of having to pay $40,000 a year to incarcerate a prisoner, the former prisoner instead pays taxes. Fourthly, it sets the stage for some educated minds to return to our society and add to it.
Therefore quality education in prison should be seen as a powerful crime prevention tool. Accordingly, college
education should be returned to prison as an investment in society, and the vocational classes should be overhauled to contain up-to-date curriculum taught by instructors who are motivated, who are overseen, to prisoners who want to receive the training. Vocations that were no longer offered should be reintroduced.
After all, if a former prisoner was living next to you, wouldn’t you want him or her to have all the skills
they possibly could to ensure that they could get a job, or would you want them there with minimal skills, thus making it likely that they will return to crime? We should ask ourselves which would be the safer scenario?
By Jeffrey Deskovic
College In Prison
Having college education available to prisoners was one of the best ideas ever to be put into practice in terms
of rehabilitation. It was truly a case of a win-win scenario. Firstly, the recidivism rate of those who had a college
education was significantly lower than those who had not received one. The reason for that is obvious: It was equipping prisoners with the education that they needed in order to be gainfully employed.
It was also deepening their level of thinking, showing them alternatives to crime, thus making it less likely that
they would return to crime. It made robberies, burglaries and drug dealing less likely, dramatically reducing the number of future victims and the $40,000/yr. cost of re-incarceration. Thus, far from coddling criminals, college education was a powerful crimeprevention program. It also provided the Parole Board with a good indicator
as to which prisoners were committed to rehabilitation. After all, the road to a college degree was both long and arduous.
Only the truly committed would embark upon a journey which would take two years to get an Associates Degree, and four years to a B.A. The participating colleges also benefited. Some professors even brought
their students into the facility for a joint class in which both students behind the prison wall and those who were free were able to conduct dialogue, and enjoy an educational experience. Many teachers expressed their great personal satisfaction from teaching in prison, and often remarked that the students in prison frequently asked the most questions, indicating they were really getting into the material and thinking about it.
My Personal Experience And What I Witnessed
Back in 1993, I was still wrongfully incarcerated. Having obtained my GED a year prior to that, I decided
to avail myself of the college program. My thinking is that I wanted to learn all that I could while I was there, so as to not make my time in prison a total waste. I figured that by obtaining a college degree I could be that much further ahead when I was released, as opposed to starting college from scratch. I was able, to a certain extent, to leave the prison mentality for a few hours. Although this self-delusion did not work all the time and had varying degrees of success, it was better than nothing.
College opened up new worlds to me, broadening my horizons. In a very real sense I learned how to really think.
I picked up the trait of posing questions to myself and really digging deeply for the answers. I learned to think critically. I began to read, opening up my mind. What’s more, I saw that schooling had a similar effect on the other inmates. I could see how their thinking changed by the way they talked and acted. Many inmates went from talking about running the streets, selling drugs, and street life, to discussing school work and hopes for future careers once released and armed with a degree.
We occupied a cell block which was set aside specifically to house those who were in college. This eliminated a lot of the normal noise attendant in the prison, such as blasting radios, and yelling out of the cell bars, because many were studying, and because everyone had respect for their fellow students. Several of the normal prison dynamics were altered to some extent. For example, people who normally would not talk to each other would debate viewpoints in the classroom, and would also help tutor each other. The need to guard oneself was relaxed as learning became the primary concern rather than survival.
One still had to be alert, but it was much less pronounced. I cannot forget the mindset of some of the prisoners that I had talked to, who had not gone to college, but who had expressed to me that they felt no hope they could be able to support themselves and/or their kids, through a lawful job. After all, as they put it, “I have no education. What can I do? Who is going to give me a job which pays me good money?” But, when I saw
some of those very same people in college, their attitude had totally changed.
The civilian college personnel served as exemplars, just by coming to and from work. Many saw them and vocalized the idea that “If he can make it, so can I”- meaning make ends meet by having a career that didn’t involve crime, while remaining free. Others spoke of careers that they hoped to have upon release. In many
instances, it involved diverting people, in one way or another, from going to prison. I was happy for them. For many of those who had come from tragic backgrounds, with such conditions as one or more parents either on drugs or selling drugs, in prison, who had dropped out of school and were running the streets, and in many instances from broken homes, that was all they knew. For them to reach beyond that and see a productive, crime-free future was tremendous, and I vicariously, silently celebrated for them.
I personally did not need the college education in order to be able to lead a crime-free life. I was innocent,
and had not committed a crime in the first place. But I knew that acquiring the education that I did would prove
helpful if and when I were cleared. Now that I am cleared, I am not as far off from graduating as I would have
been if college had not been available to me. I was able to acquire 90 credits while incarcerated.
One of the ways that it has helped me is that I am able to speak and write about things that I have personally experienced and witnessed, and, I can advocate for changes, in a much more articulate way than I could otherwise.
Negative Consequences of College Removal
As I have mentioned in previous articles, when George Pataki became governor in 1995, he cut the funding
for college in prison, and as a result of that the colleges left. There were many bad effects from this. It left prisoners, such as myself, who had completed some college, unable to graduate. In addition, it really killed the motivation of many students to do their best in the classes that they were already enrolled in. Also, the level of prison violence steadily rose. An idle mind, as the saying goes, is the devil’s playground. The greater the level of education, the more clearly consequences of actions could be seen, as could alternative ways of dealing with things other than violently.
The correction officers felt that those prisoners that were in college or were college-educated were more manageable, because the prisoners did not want to get into trouble which would result in missing the college semester. Prisoners could not see where they really had a lot to lose in the short term. The positive environment, in which the prisoners were tutoring and encouraging each other to do well in school, was lost. The prisoners who were formerly housed in the same cell block, were now dispersed, so there were fewer positive people to be around.
Upgrading The Vocational Shops
There are basic vocational classes offered in prison, on a variety of different topics. Some of the classes include
plumbing, carpentry, food service, welding, and general business. The underlying reasoning is that, just as in society, not everybody will want to go to college, and will instead prefer to learn a trade; therefore training is offered to equip prisoners with the skills that they need to get a job upon release so that they have a way to earn a living without returning to crime. To be sure, these are good topics. However, when it comes down to taking the classes themselves, there are a number of problems which render them ineffective.
Firstly, the class materials are outdated. People are taught the basics of how things used to be done years earlier.
This has the effect of being useless to the prisoners once they are released and attempt to enter the workforce. For example, I completed 6 certificates in plumbing; however almost none of my training pertained to PVC pipe, which is the type of piping used today, and only a little bit about copper pipe. Instead, most of it was about metal pipe, which is not used anymore. Therefore, my “training” is useless to me out here. If I attempted to get a job as a plumber, I would have to start at the exact same place that someone else would who had not received any training at all. Therefore, the curriculum in all of the vocational shops should be updated to reflect the latest ways and means in the various trades, and the necessary upto-date equipment should be provided.
Secondly, the instructors themselves are, in general, not very much into what they are teaching. Their attitude
by and large is that they are only there to get a paycheck, and they do very little teaching. It is not uncommon
for them to come to work, and sit in their office in the shop the entire day, and maybe answer a few questions, and other than that actually do no teaching.
We should only hire and keep employed those instructors who really want to do the job they are hired to do:
instruct the prisoners. In addition, to ensure that learning is taking place in the shops, there should be oversight of
the instructors. Lastly, prisoners should be tested monthly to ensure that they are doing their part as well to learn.
Thirdly, there are people in some vocational classes who are only in the class because they were forced into it
by the committee who assigns the assignments.
Since they are not interested in learning the material, they are sometimes disruptive and a distraction to others in the class. The practice of forcing prisoners into vocational shops should end, particularly when it is considered
that there are waiting lists of prisoners waiting to be assigned to vocational classes. Instead, something else should be found for them to do, rather than have them take up space in a class which someone else who wants to learn
could occupy.
Fourthly, many vocational classes have become too prison-orientedmeaning all that the instructors and prison
administration care about is whether the prisoners are able to do tasks that the prison needs to run, rather than focusing on skills needed on the outside. For example, a food service certificate is awarded to those who are working in the kitchen and mess hall. But instead of teaching the prisoners how to prepare meals, “cooks” merely take food which has been prepared in another facility and reheat it. Does that sound as though that would give them training on how to work as a short order cook, or in a restaurant?
As another example, there was a program which was designed to teach prisoners how to clean various surfaces,
like one might if he was working at a cleaning agency. But instead of teaching how to clean a lot of different services, in everyday practice it was limited to just those surfaces found in the prison, with “projects” consisting of making areas of the prison shiny so that when the Albany big wigs showed up, it would appear as though cleanliness standards were being met, although after they left everything would go back to business as usual.
Fifthly, in a process began under the Pataki administration, some vocational shops began to be phased out through attrition. Classes such as typing and masonry simply ceased to be offered. When an instructor would retire or die, the class would close and not be offered anymore, thereby not only preventing others from receiving the training, but also leaving those who had already invested time and effort in the class learning some things, dangling in the wind, unable to complete the class, thus wasting their time and taxpayers money.
Conclusion
Providing quality education to prisoners is an example of a win-win situation for everybody. It provides the prisoners with hope for a crime free future by equipping them with skills needed to get a non-dead-end job through which they can support themselves, kids, and spouses without a return to crime. Secondly, by reducing the temptation to return to crime, it prevents further victimization. Thirdly, it saves taxpayers money: instead of having to pay $40,000 a year to incarcerate a prisoner, the former prisoner instead pays taxes. Fourthly, it sets the stage for some educated minds to return to our society and add to it.
Therefore quality education in prison should be seen as a powerful crime prevention tool. Accordingly, college
education should be returned to prison as an investment in society, and the vocational classes should be overhauled to contain up-to-date curriculum taught by instructors who are motivated, who are overseen, to prisoners who want to receive the training. Vocations that were no longer offered should be reintroduced.
After all, if a former prisoner was living next to you, wouldn’t you want him or her to have all the skills
they possibly could to ensure that they could get a job, or would you want them there with minimal skills, thus making it likely that they will return to crime? We should ask ourselves which would be the safer scenario?
Our Readers Respond...
“I’m With Paul”
Dear Editor:
I’m voting for Paul J. Feiner for Town Supervisor of Greenburgh. I don’t know of a more dedicated local champion, a tireless fighter for everything that’s good in suburban/urban life. Paul J. Feiner has been Town Supervisor of Greenburgh, New York - a two-year, elected position - since 1991. He ran twice for Congress and lost - Greenburgh and America’s loss.
I’ve always voted for Paul Feiner, but got to know him really well last year. Verizon was offering fiber optic service in Greenburgh, and needed Town Council approval to offer television service through the fiber optics. Unsurprisingly, Cablevision, which had a monopoly on cable service in this area, opposed Verizon’s request.
Feiner, with a mostly balky Town Council baying at his every point, stood up and courageously argued for
freedom of choice in television providers in Greenburgh. This might not seem like such a controversial point, but if you’ve ever been to a local Town Council meeting you’ll know that everyone on the council has an opinion, and it’s usually not in favor of getting things done.
I was in favor of giving Greenburgh residents a real option in television, I wrote a few editorials arguing for
that, but it was Paul Feiner’s determination that got this to happen.
And he has been that way on every important local issue. Do you like being woken up all too early on weekend
mornings by someone blowing leaves or mowing the lawn at decibel levels that could split your eardrums? Feiner
doesn’t like that, either, and he’s doing what he can to keep the noise down. He stays on top of utilities like Con Ed to make repairs today, not tomorrow, after storms. He’s advocating wi-fi for a major street in Hartsdale - he wants it for the whole town, every inch of it, and the Hartsdale street would be the start. Paul J. Feiner is on the right side of every issue, be it nature or high-tech, communication to the world-at-large from your laptop or just dozing on your porch on a Saturday morning.
So I’m happily voting for Paul J. Feiner for another term of Town Supervisor. I saw him in front of the A&P
last week. And I told him, hey, I not only hope you win, but give that run for Congress another shot some day.
Paul Levinson, PhD
Professor and Chair
Department of Communication and Media Studies
Fordham University
White Plains
Reader Responds to “Give Us The Real Deal”
Dear Editor:
Obviously you’re part of the Barry Bonds asterisk brigade that would love to see Mr. Bonds brought down in shame. Here is something to ponder before you write your next anti-Bonds editorial. IF Mr. Bonds should be astersized, wouldn’t it be reasonable to place an asterisk next to Babe Ruth’s name because he did not bat against GREAT Negro pitchers like Satchel Page! Mr. Page,one of the great major league pitchers was barred from the majors until the last 8 years of his career.
In fact not only Babe Ruth should have an asterisk next to his name, many other players would not be in the Hall of Shame..(oops I mean Hall of Fame) If Negro players were not barred from the Majors. Furthermore, batters like the GREAT Josh Gibson who hit as many as 962 dingers would have over-shadowed Babe Ruth’s 714 home runs. Finally, I’ve notice the media(print/broadcast) rolled out the Great Henry Aaron when Mr. Bonds was seriously approaching a new home run record. Prior, Mr. Aaron home run feats were never promoted nationally, e.g., national advertisements ,etc…And WHY Mr. Henry Aaron was not made Baseball Commissioner? The Commissioners position is obviously a symbolic position which is supported by many level
of support assistants. You or I could be the MLB commissioner with that level of support, don’t you think!!
This whole thing about Mr. Bonds is about who should be heroes in America and what they should look like!
Would love to hear your response,
Mario Reid, New York
Editor’s Response
Dear Mr Reid:
To some extent you are preaching to the choir as regards the Negro Leagues. Having grown up in the South Bronx, in fact the 41st Precinct, were it not for a great Black New York City Police Officer, Jim McCord, from that precinct, who took a liking to me, I would never have known the privilege of playing Pony League baseball at 14 and 15 years of age, under Coach Al Richards, who had enjoyed a great career in the Negro Leagues.
Officer McCord, or Cordie as he was so affectionately known by his neighbors in Pelham Parkway, could afford, as a New York City Police Officer, to live in middle-income public housing on Mace Avenue in the Bronx. My dad, a laundry driver at the time, wasn’t earning quite enough to qualify our family to live there.
Because of Jim McCord and Al Richards, I had the pleasure of playing baseball in cleats, on grass, as a member of the Red Wings. But, for them, I would’ve been limited to pick-up softball games in the concrete schoolyards of my neighborhood. Having said that, let me assure you that you are correct when you say, “This whole thing about Mr. Bonds is about who should be heros in America,” but you are very mistaken when you finish the sentence with, “and what they should look like.”
My objection to Barry Bonds is the same objection I lodged against Mark McGwire. The use of performance-enhancing drugs by any athlete produces a counterfeit specimen, and achievements by such athletes are clearly separate and distinct from those who were not contaminated.
In short, it’s not about the color of a man’s skin but, rather, what’s coursing through his veins.
In Our Opinion...
David Endorses Goliath
We can only wonder what Lieutenant Governor David Paterson was thinking about last week, other than obedience to Democratic Party Boss Larry Schwartz when he endorsed Ernie Davis for a fourth term as Mayor of Mount Vernon. We know that he knows little or nothing about what is really going on there, because he described that neglected, struggling, violence-scarred city as “the very model of urban development.” We
wonder, indeed, that Mr. Paterson could, in good faith, commend a mayor who in twelve years in office has shown a clear contempt for the public well-being, preferring instead to tend to his own comfort and prosperity, and that of his cronies and political connections.
We would prefer to give David Paterson the benefit of the doubt, and assume that he really doesn’t know the true Ernie Davis. The David Paterson who has always been concerned about police interaction with inner-city civilians would not have endorsed Davis had he known that for years he looked the other way as his police department routinely gathered false confessions from innocent citizens, mostly people of color, in the so-called Conference Room in the basement of Police Headquarters, totally violating their Civil Rights. Selwyn Days is doing consecutive 25-Year to Life sentences for a “Double Homicide” that was really a Murder/Suicide. And, Kareem Bryan is doing 43 years in state prison for Rape and Burglary actually committed by another perpetrator who Mount Vernon Police let slip through their fingers.
Mayor Davis was urged, on his own radio show, nearly a year and a half ago, to put an end to such unlawful practices, but did nothing! It took the independent action of newly appointed Police Commissioner David Chong, informed of the horrific and unlawful police practice by The Guardian, to investigate, and put an end to it, thus protecting the Constitutional, and Miranda Rights of all Mount Vernon citizens, and all who may come in contact with police.
If Mr. Paterson really knew Mayor Davis and his regime he could not ignore the fact that Davis has repeatedly let down the hard-working families of Mount Vernon, driving many back to the Bronx and other surrounding communities, where schools are safer, and taxes are lower. We ask, “Would Mr. Paterson raise his children in Mount Vernon, and send them to Mount Vernon Public Schools?” He would want safer, more achieving schools, and a community with more employment and recreational opportunities for his kids; a community with more hope for the future than one can expect from Ernie Davis’ performance over the past twelve years. Mount Vernon’s parents and children have the right to those same expectations.
We recently interviewed several Mount Vernon High School students. They told a tale of fear in the hallways, fear of weapons and drugs that somehow make it through side doors. They spoke of fear on school buses, and about their parents’ agonizing about whether to move, or send them to private schools, while still paying sky-high property taxes. They spoke about the Hip-Hop Museum that never was, and the total lack of safe recreation in
their city. Many said that they knew someone who’s been a victim of violence, stabbing, or gunplay. Most go directly home, and lock their doors.
Some students we spoke with wondered why there are so many boarded-up stores and littered lots throughout their city, compared with other cities and towns they visit in Westchester. Their observations certainly do not square with David Paterson’s “urban model” statement. But they live in Mount Vernon.
If Mr. Paterson believes that he owes his greatest loyalty to Andy Spano, Larry Schwartz, Reggie LaFayette, and those like them who could care less about the City of Mount Vernon, and those families struggling to exist within its troubled and neglected confines, he is sadly mistaken. By his loyalty to such compatriots he betrays the very people who look up to him, and to whom he owes the greatest allegiance, and solemn duty to be more forthcoming and honest.
“I’m With Paul”
Dear Editor:
I’m voting for Paul J. Feiner for Town Supervisor of Greenburgh. I don’t know of a more dedicated local champion, a tireless fighter for everything that’s good in suburban/urban life. Paul J. Feiner has been Town Supervisor of Greenburgh, New York - a two-year, elected position - since 1991. He ran twice for Congress and lost - Greenburgh and America’s loss.
I’ve always voted for Paul Feiner, but got to know him really well last year. Verizon was offering fiber optic service in Greenburgh, and needed Town Council approval to offer television service through the fiber optics. Unsurprisingly, Cablevision, which had a monopoly on cable service in this area, opposed Verizon’s request.
Feiner, with a mostly balky Town Council baying at his every point, stood up and courageously argued for
freedom of choice in television providers in Greenburgh. This might not seem like such a controversial point, but if you’ve ever been to a local Town Council meeting you’ll know that everyone on the council has an opinion, and it’s usually not in favor of getting things done.
I was in favor of giving Greenburgh residents a real option in television, I wrote a few editorials arguing for
that, but it was Paul Feiner’s determination that got this to happen.
And he has been that way on every important local issue. Do you like being woken up all too early on weekend
mornings by someone blowing leaves or mowing the lawn at decibel levels that could split your eardrums? Feiner
doesn’t like that, either, and he’s doing what he can to keep the noise down. He stays on top of utilities like Con Ed to make repairs today, not tomorrow, after storms. He’s advocating wi-fi for a major street in Hartsdale - he wants it for the whole town, every inch of it, and the Hartsdale street would be the start. Paul J. Feiner is on the right side of every issue, be it nature or high-tech, communication to the world-at-large from your laptop or just dozing on your porch on a Saturday morning.
So I’m happily voting for Paul J. Feiner for another term of Town Supervisor. I saw him in front of the A&P
last week. And I told him, hey, I not only hope you win, but give that run for Congress another shot some day.
Paul Levinson, PhD
Professor and Chair
Department of Communication and Media Studies
Fordham University
White Plains
Reader Responds to “Give Us The Real Deal”
Dear Editor:
Obviously you’re part of the Barry Bonds asterisk brigade that would love to see Mr. Bonds brought down in shame. Here is something to ponder before you write your next anti-Bonds editorial. IF Mr. Bonds should be astersized, wouldn’t it be reasonable to place an asterisk next to Babe Ruth’s name because he did not bat against GREAT Negro pitchers like Satchel Page! Mr. Page,one of the great major league pitchers was barred from the majors until the last 8 years of his career.
In fact not only Babe Ruth should have an asterisk next to his name, many other players would not be in the Hall of Shame..(oops I mean Hall of Fame) If Negro players were not barred from the Majors. Furthermore, batters like the GREAT Josh Gibson who hit as many as 962 dingers would have over-shadowed Babe Ruth’s 714 home runs. Finally, I’ve notice the media(print/broadcast) rolled out the Great Henry Aaron when Mr. Bonds was seriously approaching a new home run record. Prior, Mr. Aaron home run feats were never promoted nationally, e.g., national advertisements ,etc…And WHY Mr. Henry Aaron was not made Baseball Commissioner? The Commissioners position is obviously a symbolic position which is supported by many level
of support assistants. You or I could be the MLB commissioner with that level of support, don’t you think!!
This whole thing about Mr. Bonds is about who should be heroes in America and what they should look like!
Would love to hear your response,
Mario Reid, New York
Editor’s Response
Dear Mr Reid:
To some extent you are preaching to the choir as regards the Negro Leagues. Having grown up in the South Bronx, in fact the 41st Precinct, were it not for a great Black New York City Police Officer, Jim McCord, from that precinct, who took a liking to me, I would never have known the privilege of playing Pony League baseball at 14 and 15 years of age, under Coach Al Richards, who had enjoyed a great career in the Negro Leagues.
Officer McCord, or Cordie as he was so affectionately known by his neighbors in Pelham Parkway, could afford, as a New York City Police Officer, to live in middle-income public housing on Mace Avenue in the Bronx. My dad, a laundry driver at the time, wasn’t earning quite enough to qualify our family to live there.
Because of Jim McCord and Al Richards, I had the pleasure of playing baseball in cleats, on grass, as a member of the Red Wings. But, for them, I would’ve been limited to pick-up softball games in the concrete schoolyards of my neighborhood. Having said that, let me assure you that you are correct when you say, “This whole thing about Mr. Bonds is about who should be heros in America,” but you are very mistaken when you finish the sentence with, “and what they should look like.”
My objection to Barry Bonds is the same objection I lodged against Mark McGwire. The use of performance-enhancing drugs by any athlete produces a counterfeit specimen, and achievements by such athletes are clearly separate and distinct from those who were not contaminated.
In short, it’s not about the color of a man’s skin but, rather, what’s coursing through his veins.
In Our Opinion...
David Endorses Goliath
We can only wonder what Lieutenant Governor David Paterson was thinking about last week, other than obedience to Democratic Party Boss Larry Schwartz when he endorsed Ernie Davis for a fourth term as Mayor of Mount Vernon. We know that he knows little or nothing about what is really going on there, because he described that neglected, struggling, violence-scarred city as “the very model of urban development.” We
wonder, indeed, that Mr. Paterson could, in good faith, commend a mayor who in twelve years in office has shown a clear contempt for the public well-being, preferring instead to tend to his own comfort and prosperity, and that of his cronies and political connections.
We would prefer to give David Paterson the benefit of the doubt, and assume that he really doesn’t know the true Ernie Davis. The David Paterson who has always been concerned about police interaction with inner-city civilians would not have endorsed Davis had he known that for years he looked the other way as his police department routinely gathered false confessions from innocent citizens, mostly people of color, in the so-called Conference Room in the basement of Police Headquarters, totally violating their Civil Rights. Selwyn Days is doing consecutive 25-Year to Life sentences for a “Double Homicide” that was really a Murder/Suicide. And, Kareem Bryan is doing 43 years in state prison for Rape and Burglary actually committed by another perpetrator who Mount Vernon Police let slip through their fingers.
Mayor Davis was urged, on his own radio show, nearly a year and a half ago, to put an end to such unlawful practices, but did nothing! It took the independent action of newly appointed Police Commissioner David Chong, informed of the horrific and unlawful police practice by The Guardian, to investigate, and put an end to it, thus protecting the Constitutional, and Miranda Rights of all Mount Vernon citizens, and all who may come in contact with police.
If Mr. Paterson really knew Mayor Davis and his regime he could not ignore the fact that Davis has repeatedly let down the hard-working families of Mount Vernon, driving many back to the Bronx and other surrounding communities, where schools are safer, and taxes are lower. We ask, “Would Mr. Paterson raise his children in Mount Vernon, and send them to Mount Vernon Public Schools?” He would want safer, more achieving schools, and a community with more employment and recreational opportunities for his kids; a community with more hope for the future than one can expect from Ernie Davis’ performance over the past twelve years. Mount Vernon’s parents and children have the right to those same expectations.
We recently interviewed several Mount Vernon High School students. They told a tale of fear in the hallways, fear of weapons and drugs that somehow make it through side doors. They spoke of fear on school buses, and about their parents’ agonizing about whether to move, or send them to private schools, while still paying sky-high property taxes. They spoke about the Hip-Hop Museum that never was, and the total lack of safe recreation in
their city. Many said that they knew someone who’s been a victim of violence, stabbing, or gunplay. Most go directly home, and lock their doors.
Some students we spoke with wondered why there are so many boarded-up stores and littered lots throughout their city, compared with other cities and towns they visit in Westchester. Their observations certainly do not square with David Paterson’s “urban model” statement. But they live in Mount Vernon.
If Mr. Paterson believes that he owes his greatest loyalty to Andy Spano, Larry Schwartz, Reggie LaFayette, and those like them who could care less about the City of Mount Vernon, and those families struggling to exist within its troubled and neglected confines, he is sadly mistaken. By his loyalty to such compatriots he betrays the very people who look up to him, and to whom he owes the greatest allegiance, and solemn duty to be more forthcoming and honest.
The Advocate
Richard Blassberg
“It’s Time For All Good Democrats...”
With primary elections less than three weeks away, and the general election looming in November, the gloves have been coming off , and the battle lines have been drawn. Problem is players have been changing parties, Republicans having afterthoughts, abandoning those who elected them numerous times. Of course, nothing to do with voter registrations; no, it’s all about “deeply personal” principles you understand, so deep they cannot
be articulated.
Westchester voters need to keep a scorecard just to know who is in which party. But, why bother, party
affiliation in Westchester does not guarantee the support that ought to be forthcoming.
In fact, it doesn’t mean a darn thing in a county that has been run by a Cabal. Dennis Robertson, Democratic
Yonkers City Councilman, does not get any support from so-called Democrat Andy Spano, nor from his puppeteer, Larry Schwartz. They are solidly behind Republican Mayor Phil Amicone, just as they were solidly behind his Republican buddy Nick Spano each time Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and Tom Abinanti, both solid
Democrats, challenged him. The reason is simple. Larry and Andy did business with Nick, and they do business with Phil Amicone.
Robertson, a straight shooter, refuses to sell out the interests of the People of Yonkers to a County Government that takes too much in taxes, and delivers too little in services. He believes that County Government, particularly
under the Spano Administration, has grown far too big and costly, and that most services would be more cost-
effectively handled at state and local levels. In his words, “Amicone never questions what the County does that inflicts pain on the People of Yonkers.”
County Legislator Clinton Young, running against three-term mayoral incumbent Ernie Davis at the urging of caring rank and file Democrats who are sick and tired of Davis’ excuses and failures, does not have the support
of Spano or Schwartz either. They know, from past experience, that Young cannot be pushed around and made to sacrifice his constituents’ interests, the way Davis can be. The People of Mount Vernon are no fools. They know that there are good reasons why the FBI and the United States Attorney’s Office are looking over Davis’ books. Three million dollars simply doesn’t disappear into thin air!
“They also know ...”that it’s time for a change, a breath of fresh air around City Hall. For almost 12 years now, they know that the Mayor’s Office has been all about the Mayor, and nobody else, least of all the City’s youth. They know that Davis has failed their children miserably, and failed them, as well, in the process. They know that he merely talks a good game. And, they realize that politicians like Spano and Schwartz, are behind him because
they don’t really care what happens in Mount Vernon.
Paul Feiner, one of the most highly regarded public servants in all of downstate New York, does not have the support of Spanocrats Andy and Larry, because he is not only a dedicated public servant, one who goes
out and asks his constituents how he may be of assistance to them, but also he is a man of his word. He is constantly protecting the People of Greenburgh from abuse by the County Executive’s Office, specifi-cally the schemes of Larry Schwartz.
Feiner cannot be bought o with money or favor, a fact that Schwartz will never understand. When Schwartz thought he could sneak by Feiner, and violate the contract between the Town of Greenburgh and the County of Westchester regarding the placement of homeless shelters, by proposing to build one behind the County Police
Headquarters in Hawthorne, Paul stepped up to the plate, and pointed out the fact that it would be a quarter mile too close to already existing facilities under the contract.
Foolishly miscalculating Feiner’s integrity and his determination to honor and protect the interests of Greenburgh citizens, Andy Spano made a statement, publicly, that he would “work something out” with Supervisor Feiner. When Paul stood firm, announcing that he would not go against the spirit, or the letter, of the agreement binding
the County, thus diminishing the Town’s position in all future contract negotiations, he did so, fully recognizing that Larry would encourage and finance anyone, yes anyone, he could get to run against him.
Supervisor Paul Feiner, County Legislator Clinton Young, and Yonkers City Councilman Dennis Robertson, true Democrats all, are running on their records and on their platforms. They will not be dictated to by the likes of Larry Schwartz and his ilk. Each of these men will be recognized as true Democrats, public servants uncompromised by fear or favor.
Richard Blassberg
“It’s Time For All Good Democrats...”
With primary elections less than three weeks away, and the general election looming in November, the gloves have been coming off , and the battle lines have been drawn. Problem is players have been changing parties, Republicans having afterthoughts, abandoning those who elected them numerous times. Of course, nothing to do with voter registrations; no, it’s all about “deeply personal” principles you understand, so deep they cannot
be articulated.
Westchester voters need to keep a scorecard just to know who is in which party. But, why bother, party
affiliation in Westchester does not guarantee the support that ought to be forthcoming.
In fact, it doesn’t mean a darn thing in a county that has been run by a Cabal. Dennis Robertson, Democratic
Yonkers City Councilman, does not get any support from so-called Democrat Andy Spano, nor from his puppeteer, Larry Schwartz. They are solidly behind Republican Mayor Phil Amicone, just as they were solidly behind his Republican buddy Nick Spano each time Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and Tom Abinanti, both solid
Democrats, challenged him. The reason is simple. Larry and Andy did business with Nick, and they do business with Phil Amicone.
Robertson, a straight shooter, refuses to sell out the interests of the People of Yonkers to a County Government that takes too much in taxes, and delivers too little in services. He believes that County Government, particularly
under the Spano Administration, has grown far too big and costly, and that most services would be more cost-
effectively handled at state and local levels. In his words, “Amicone never questions what the County does that inflicts pain on the People of Yonkers.”
County Legislator Clinton Young, running against three-term mayoral incumbent Ernie Davis at the urging of caring rank and file Democrats who are sick and tired of Davis’ excuses and failures, does not have the support
of Spano or Schwartz either. They know, from past experience, that Young cannot be pushed around and made to sacrifice his constituents’ interests, the way Davis can be. The People of Mount Vernon are no fools. They know that there are good reasons why the FBI and the United States Attorney’s Office are looking over Davis’ books. Three million dollars simply doesn’t disappear into thin air!
“They also know ...”that it’s time for a change, a breath of fresh air around City Hall. For almost 12 years now, they know that the Mayor’s Office has been all about the Mayor, and nobody else, least of all the City’s youth. They know that Davis has failed their children miserably, and failed them, as well, in the process. They know that he merely talks a good game. And, they realize that politicians like Spano and Schwartz, are behind him because
they don’t really care what happens in Mount Vernon.
Paul Feiner, one of the most highly regarded public servants in all of downstate New York, does not have the support of Spanocrats Andy and Larry, because he is not only a dedicated public servant, one who goes
out and asks his constituents how he may be of assistance to them, but also he is a man of his word. He is constantly protecting the People of Greenburgh from abuse by the County Executive’s Office, specifi-cally the schemes of Larry Schwartz.
Feiner cannot be bought o with money or favor, a fact that Schwartz will never understand. When Schwartz thought he could sneak by Feiner, and violate the contract between the Town of Greenburgh and the County of Westchester regarding the placement of homeless shelters, by proposing to build one behind the County Police
Headquarters in Hawthorne, Paul stepped up to the plate, and pointed out the fact that it would be a quarter mile too close to already existing facilities under the contract.
Foolishly miscalculating Feiner’s integrity and his determination to honor and protect the interests of Greenburgh citizens, Andy Spano made a statement, publicly, that he would “work something out” with Supervisor Feiner. When Paul stood firm, announcing that he would not go against the spirit, or the letter, of the agreement binding
the County, thus diminishing the Town’s position in all future contract negotiations, he did so, fully recognizing that Larry would encourage and finance anyone, yes anyone, he could get to run against him.
Supervisor Paul Feiner, County Legislator Clinton Young, and Yonkers City Councilman Dennis Robertson, true Democrats all, are running on their records and on their platforms. They will not be dictated to by the likes of Larry Schwartz and his ilk. Each of these men will be recognized as true Democrats, public servants uncompromised by fear or favor.
The Court Report
By Richard Blassberg
United States Attorney Garcia And State Attorney General Cuomo Announce Indictment Of 15 For Major Theft And Fraud
United States Attorney
Southern District of New York
MICHAEL J. GARCIA, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and ANDREW CUOMO, the Attorney General of the State of New York, announced last Monday, August 20, the unsealing of an Indictment charging 15 individuals with crimes including producing fake identification documents, using those documents to commit various fraud crimes, and selling and transporting stolen vehicles. As alleged in the sixteen-count Indictment returned by the grand jury in Manhattan federal court:
The defendants and their co-conspirators produced false identification documents purporting to have been issued by state and federal government authorities, including driver’s licenses, resident alien cards, social security cards, and tax identification documents. The false identification documents were produced in the names of fraudulent identities, to which the defendants referred as “chickens.”
In order to build financial credit for these fake identities, the defendants, among other things, fraudulently established bank accounts, credit card accounts, apartment leases, and telephone and utility accounts in the names of the “chickens.” The defendants also applied for and obtained lucrative bank loans, home mortgage
loans, increased credit card limits, and other financial benefits in the names of the “chicken” identities or in the names of sham businesses supposedly operated by those fraudulent identities. The defendants and their co-conspirators then defaulted on the loans and credit card debt, causing at least $10 million in losses to numerous financial institutions.
In the course of the scheme, the defendants and their co-conspirators designated certain physical addresses as the mailing addresses for the “chicken” credit card accounts, and regularly monitored the mail at those addresses for incoming credit cards and account statements in the false names. They then used these cards to pay bills, make purchases, and obtain cash advances, often charging the maximum (or above the maximum) amount allowed on the cards and then defaulting on the bill.
Additionally, four of the defendants -- TAHIR ALI KHAN, SYED HASSAN, FRANKLIN RODRIGUEZ, AND BASHARAL JARRAL – are charged with stolen vehicle offenses involving luxury cars such as Hummers and a Porsche Cayenne.
TAHIR ALI KHAN is 30 years old, and resides in Alabama.
FAYYAZ AHMED is 40 years old, and is currently held at Riker’s Island, NY.
ARIE BENSHIMON is 35 years old and resides in Monsey, NY.
NAVEED ALI BHINDAR is 43 years old resides in Valley Stream, NY.
SYED HASSAN is 33 years old and resides in Staten Island, NY.
MUHAMMAD ISHAQ is 34 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
BASHARAT JARRAL is 49 years old and resides in Elmhurst, NY.
NADEEM KHAN is 24 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
GHULAM MEHMOOD is 40 years old and resides in Cartaret, NJ.
SHAHEEN MUKHTAR is 53 years old and resides in Voorhees, NJ.
QAISER QURESHI is 53 years old and resides in Queens, NY.
FRANKLIN RODRIGUEZ is 21 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
SYED SHAH is 23 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
OSCAR SANCHEZ is 37 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
PRADIPT SHARMA is 31 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
The filing of these charges is the culmination of a 16-month investigation conducted by the New York State Attorney General’s Office with the New York City Police Department, New York State Police, the Hoover, Alabama Police Department, and the New York State Banking Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, the New York City Department of Probation, the Social Security Administration, and the United States Secret Service.
Mr. GARCIA praised the Attorney General’s Office and the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies for their outstanding work in the investigation. Mr. GARCIA stated: “Through the cooperation of federal and state prosecutors, and the investigative work of federal, state and local agencies, we have dismantled a fraud ring of 15 defendants who used false identities to obtain at least $10 million through a wide variety of scams.”
“These defendants are charged with creating a comprehensive system of fraud for ripping off businesses to satisfy their own greed. One of these individuals is even charged with attempting to purchase $10,000 worth of Lowe’s gift cards using a credit card obtained through a false identity,” said Mr. CUOMO. “Our investigators spent over a year monitoring the conspirators and tirelessly compiling evidence to expose these illegal activities. I applaud their hard work, which was a critical part of this investigation and essential in uncovering these crimes.”
Assistant United States Attorneys LISA ZORNBERG and ELIE HONIG, and Assistant Attorney General MERYL LUTSKY -- who is designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this case -- are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
By Richard Blassberg
United States Attorney Garcia And State Attorney General Cuomo Announce Indictment Of 15 For Major Theft And Fraud
United States Attorney
Southern District of New York
MICHAEL J. GARCIA, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and ANDREW CUOMO, the Attorney General of the State of New York, announced last Monday, August 20, the unsealing of an Indictment charging 15 individuals with crimes including producing fake identification documents, using those documents to commit various fraud crimes, and selling and transporting stolen vehicles. As alleged in the sixteen-count Indictment returned by the grand jury in Manhattan federal court:
The defendants and their co-conspirators produced false identification documents purporting to have been issued by state and federal government authorities, including driver’s licenses, resident alien cards, social security cards, and tax identification documents. The false identification documents were produced in the names of fraudulent identities, to which the defendants referred as “chickens.”
In order to build financial credit for these fake identities, the defendants, among other things, fraudulently established bank accounts, credit card accounts, apartment leases, and telephone and utility accounts in the names of the “chickens.” The defendants also applied for and obtained lucrative bank loans, home mortgage
loans, increased credit card limits, and other financial benefits in the names of the “chicken” identities or in the names of sham businesses supposedly operated by those fraudulent identities. The defendants and their co-conspirators then defaulted on the loans and credit card debt, causing at least $10 million in losses to numerous financial institutions.
In the course of the scheme, the defendants and their co-conspirators designated certain physical addresses as the mailing addresses for the “chicken” credit card accounts, and regularly monitored the mail at those addresses for incoming credit cards and account statements in the false names. They then used these cards to pay bills, make purchases, and obtain cash advances, often charging the maximum (or above the maximum) amount allowed on the cards and then defaulting on the bill.
Additionally, four of the defendants -- TAHIR ALI KHAN, SYED HASSAN, FRANKLIN RODRIGUEZ, AND BASHARAL JARRAL – are charged with stolen vehicle offenses involving luxury cars such as Hummers and a Porsche Cayenne.
TAHIR ALI KHAN is 30 years old, and resides in Alabama.
FAYYAZ AHMED is 40 years old, and is currently held at Riker’s Island, NY.
ARIE BENSHIMON is 35 years old and resides in Monsey, NY.
NAVEED ALI BHINDAR is 43 years old resides in Valley Stream, NY.
SYED HASSAN is 33 years old and resides in Staten Island, NY.
MUHAMMAD ISHAQ is 34 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
BASHARAT JARRAL is 49 years old and resides in Elmhurst, NY.
NADEEM KHAN is 24 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
GHULAM MEHMOOD is 40 years old and resides in Cartaret, NJ.
SHAHEEN MUKHTAR is 53 years old and resides in Voorhees, NJ.
QAISER QURESHI is 53 years old and resides in Queens, NY.
FRANKLIN RODRIGUEZ is 21 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
SYED SHAH is 23 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
OSCAR SANCHEZ is 37 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
PRADIPT SHARMA is 31 years old and resides in Brooklyn, NY.
The filing of these charges is the culmination of a 16-month investigation conducted by the New York State Attorney General’s Office with the New York City Police Department, New York State Police, the Hoover, Alabama Police Department, and the New York State Banking Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, the New York City Department of Probation, the Social Security Administration, and the United States Secret Service.
Mr. GARCIA praised the Attorney General’s Office and the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies for their outstanding work in the investigation. Mr. GARCIA stated: “Through the cooperation of federal and state prosecutors, and the investigative work of federal, state and local agencies, we have dismantled a fraud ring of 15 defendants who used false identities to obtain at least $10 million through a wide variety of scams.”
“These defendants are charged with creating a comprehensive system of fraud for ripping off businesses to satisfy their own greed. One of these individuals is even charged with attempting to purchase $10,000 worth of Lowe’s gift cards using a credit card obtained through a false identity,” said Mr. CUOMO. “Our investigators spent over a year monitoring the conspirators and tirelessly compiling evidence to expose these illegal activities. I applaud their hard work, which was a critical part of this investigation and essential in uncovering these crimes.”
Assistant United States Attorneys LISA ZORNBERG and ELIE HONIG, and Assistant Attorney General MERYL LUTSKY -- who is designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in this case -- are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Vinnie Restiano Tells Phil Amicone: “Return the stolen newspaper boxes. Reimburse the City out of your Campaign Account.”
Upon learning of the un-Constitutional seizure under the orders of Mayor Phil Amicone of 56 Westchester Guardian Newspaper distribution boxes, that had been in place for more than a year throughout the City of Yonkers, Republican Mayoral candidate Vincenza Restiano called upon Amicone to do the right thing. The following is a press release put out last week:
Press Release
YONKERS-Republican Mayoral candidate Vincenza Restiano called on Mayor Phil Amicone to accept responsibility for the removal and the by city workers of 56 Guardian news racks and to immediately return them to the owner. She also demanded that the Mayor foot the cost of litigation over this matter out of his Campaign Account.
“Removal of the news racks violated the First Amendment rights of every Yonkers citizen,” said Restiano. “And the owner and publisher of The Westchester Guardian is rightly livid about the the of the newspaper’s boxes. Clearly, someone ordered DPW employees to remove news racks that contained copies of The Westchester Guardian. And it is equally clear that it was done because Mayor Amicone did not like the editorial content of the newspaper, since news racks containing other publications were not confisscated.”
The owner of The Westchester Guardian has sued the City for $40 million and Amicone’s spokesperson defended the the of the Guardian’s boxes by claiming that it wasn’t a newspaper.
“The Mayor’s campaign should pay for the return of stolen property and for the time that it took the city employees to confiscate the news boxes,” continued Restiano. “ The Mayor should also reimburse the
city for the cost of the litigation, since it is now clear that the reason the boxes were removed is because the Mayor did not like what was being said about him.”
Upon learning of the un-Constitutional seizure under the orders of Mayor Phil Amicone of 56 Westchester Guardian Newspaper distribution boxes, that had been in place for more than a year throughout the City of Yonkers, Republican Mayoral candidate Vincenza Restiano called upon Amicone to do the right thing. The following is a press release put out last week:
Press Release
YONKERS-Republican Mayoral candidate Vincenza Restiano called on Mayor Phil Amicone to accept responsibility for the removal and the by city workers of 56 Guardian news racks and to immediately return them to the owner. She also demanded that the Mayor foot the cost of litigation over this matter out of his Campaign Account.
“Removal of the news racks violated the First Amendment rights of every Yonkers citizen,” said Restiano. “And the owner and publisher of The Westchester Guardian is rightly livid about the the of the newspaper’s boxes. Clearly, someone ordered DPW employees to remove news racks that contained copies of The Westchester Guardian. And it is equally clear that it was done because Mayor Amicone did not like the editorial content of the newspaper, since news racks containing other publications were not confisscated.”
The owner of The Westchester Guardian has sued the City for $40 million and Amicone’s spokesperson defended the the of the Guardian’s boxes by claiming that it wasn’t a newspaper.
“The Mayor’s campaign should pay for the return of stolen property and for the time that it took the city employees to confiscate the news boxes,” continued Restiano. “ The Mayor should also reimburse the
city for the cost of the litigation, since it is now clear that the reason the boxes were removed is because the Mayor did not like what was being said about him.”
Scarsdale, NY Jobs
Scarsdale is a northern suburb of New York City. It earned a spot on Money Magazine's "Top 25 Earning Towns". Scarsdale is associated with many of the rich and famous, including Liza Minelli, Yoko Ono, and Linda McCartney.
Amari Clinic has an opening for a front desk coordinator, and People's United Bank has openings for financial service associates.
Other opportunities include: field assistant (construction company) and bank teller.
Click here for a complete listing of Scarsdale, NY jobs.
Amari Clinic has an opening for a front desk coordinator, and People's United Bank has openings for financial service associates.
Other opportunities include: field assistant (construction company) and bank teller.
Click here for a complete listing of Scarsdale, NY jobs.
Rye / Rye Brook, NY Jobs
The city of Rye has a rich history. John Jay, a Founding Father and First Supreme Court Justice, lived in and is buried in Rye. Rye is also home to Playland, a historic amusement park. Playland houses one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the northeast: the Dragon Coaster.
The village of Rye Brook has been designated as a "Tree City USA", a titled given by the Arbor Day Foundation. Rye Brook has 6 parks and was once the location of the headquarters of Kraft Foods and IBM.
Mary Bolger Personnel has many job openings in Rye, including: trade assistant, powerpoint receptionist, and executive assistant.
There are also openings for a retail pharmacist and a supervising pharmacist.
Click here for a complete listing of Rye, Rye Brook NY Jobs.
The village of Rye Brook has been designated as a "Tree City USA", a titled given by the Arbor Day Foundation. Rye Brook has 6 parks and was once the location of the headquarters of Kraft Foods and IBM.
Mary Bolger Personnel has many job openings in Rye, including: trade assistant, powerpoint receptionist, and executive assistant.
There are also openings for a retail pharmacist and a supervising pharmacist.
Click here for a complete listing of Rye, Rye Brook NY Jobs.
WEST SIDE CRIMINAL DAY - 8/28/07
A full docket and some interesting moments came out of Wednesday's Criminal Day at 15-1-01. Students from Widener University's School of Law observed today's proceedings, though were probably disappointed with the fact that out of the 16 cases scheduled for hearings, only one preliminary hearing took place. Five defendants waived preliminary hearings (one involuntarily), two cases were withdrawn, and the remaining cases were continued to next month.
In the day's lone hearing, Commonwealth vs. James R. McGeehan (15-1-01, CR-0000172-07), the defendant was charged with Fleeing/Eluding a Police Officer, Escape, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor, Accident Causing Damage to an Unattended Vehicle, Driving the Wrong Way on a One Way Street, and Speeding. On June 9 at 00:15, Sgt. Jeffrey Ditz was conducting surveillance at Sam's Pizza Island on Hannum Avenue and West Washington Street when he observed what he suspected to a transaction involving the furnishing of alcohol to underage subjects. Sgt. Ditz observed the driver of a gold Ford Taurus loading seven bottles of a malt liquor product into a black Ford Explorer allegedly driven by McGeehan. Both vehicles then turned eastbound on Washington Street.
Sgt. Ditz then initiated a traffic stop of the defendant's SUV on the 200 block of West Washington Street when McGeehan pulled over briefly then allegedly took off in a matter of seconds. Sgt. Ditz hadn't even provided the called in the traffic stop to dispatch before the defendant fled, going the wrong way on Darlington Street and then going westbound on West Chestnut Street, at one point going nearly 60 mph. The 17-year-old passenger of the SUV testified that McGeehan allegedly said "I'm going" after he pulled over. Sgt. Ditz then attempted to intercept the SUV by taking a different routing than the SUV. The SUV eventually crashed into a tree on the 100 block of North Brandywine Street. After the accident, both McGeehan and his passenger ran up the hill behind the former Bishop Shanahan campus and jumped several fences before the passenger was arrested.
Judge Bruno dismissed the Escape charge against McGeehan after his attorney successfuly argued that McGeehan's actions did not meet the legal definition of escape, which requires a defendant to be in "official detention" which had not been executed at the time of the traffic stop; McGeehan was held for trial in Common Pleas Court on the remaining charges. McGeehan had been at Chester County Prison after absconding from Drug Court, which he later withdrew from. He remains at CCP in lieu f $7,500 cash bail...
While that was the only hearing, there were some other noteworthy events that took place today:
Carl G. Donato, Jr., 25, of Malvern, was scheduled for a hearing on charges filed by Chester County Detective Harold Dutter that he provided a false urine sample during a drug test at the Adult Probation Office. Donato, who was charged with Attempting to Furnish a Drug-Free Urine, Obstructing Administration of Law or Other Governmental Function, and Tampering With Evidence, failed to appear for court. As such, Judge Bruno issued a bench warrant for his arrest (15-1-01, CR-0000206-07)...
Tamal James Forchion, 24, of Willingboro, N.J., pled guilty to a summary charge of Disorderly Conduct after an incident at the Landmark Americana bar shortly after midnight on August 18. Forchion had made restitution following the incident and had agreed not to return to the establishment. He had admitted that he used bad judgement when he said he was trying to play peacemaker; suffice to say that didn't work too well, hence the charges. In exchange for the payment of restitution and guilty plea, a misdemeanor charge of Criminal Mischief was withdrawn (15-1-01, CR-0000229-07).
Forchion's friend, who had bailed him out not too long after being arrested and seeing his bail set at $1,500 cash, was in attendance. There's no doubt that Forchion, a professional basketball player who plies his craft overseas, will never hear the end of it from his boys over in Willingboro. At least Forchion manned up and accepted responsibility for his actions, which is more than most knuckleheads who pass through the system do...
Which brings us to Brian Thomas Ems...
Ems, 20, of Trevose, Bucks County, was scheduled for a 09:00 preliminary hearing on charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, Underage Drinking, and Disorderly Conduct (15-1-01, CR-0000096-07). Ems' co-defendant, Daniel Easton, 20, of Levittown, Bucks County, faced similar charges, however he successfully completed a summary agreement where he ended up pleading guilty to Disorderly Conduct in exchange for a withdrawl of the remaining charges (15-1-01, CR-0000097-07). Ems had been slated to recieve the same disposition, however there were a couple slight snags in the plan:
(1) Ems showed up at 11:30, claiming he had transportation issues, yet he never notified the court, and (2) while going over his summary agreement, Ems didn't seem to take the proceedings seriously.
After mulling over his options, Judge Bruno ordered Ems' $2,500 unsecured bail revoked and committed him to CCP in lieu of $2,500 cash bail. Additionally, his hearing was continued to next week at 09:00; assuming he is unable to post bail, he should at least show up for his hearing. And he's not even the knucklehead of the session...
Which brings us to Michael Scott McClinton...
McClinton, 24, of Exton, was arrested twice in the past week by Cpl. Josh Lee on two separate incidents. Early Wednesday morning, McClinton was charged with Theft by Unlawful Taking and Recieving Stolen Property after allegedly stealing an unknown amount of cash from a tip jar at Barnaby's (15-1-01, CR-0000232-07); then, early Saturday morning at around 02:30, Cpl. Lee again arrested McClinton on charges of Criminal Trespassing, Harassment, and related offenses after a domestic-related incident on the 200 block of West Union Street. He remains at CCP in lieu of at least $2,500 bail on the theft charge and $5,000 bail on the trespassing charge.
This is on top of his 1543-B conviction in front of Judge Knapp last week and a separate pending case in the same court that's scheduled for a preliminary hearing on September 14. While waiting to be transported back to CCP, McClinton could be heard in the courtroom complaining about the food at CCP, so much so that his behavior was disrupting court proceedings. This guy has "state penitentary" written all over him...
Meanwhile, another defendant who was scheduled for a 1543-B hearing today got a rather startling surprise from the Commonwealth of Virginia in the form of a bench warrant and extradition request. Stephen Antoine Strickland, 22, of West Chester, appeared in court to answer to a 1543-B charge after a traffic stop by Sgt. Marty Deighan on June 5. Upon his arrival, he was informed of a bench warrant issued for felony charges of Grand Larceny and Burglary filed in Rockingham County, Va. He was committed to CCP on $25,000 cash bail with an extradition hearing scheduled for September 24 in the Court of Common Pleas (15-1-01, AR-0000144-07)...
In the day's lone hearing, Commonwealth vs. James R. McGeehan (15-1-01, CR-0000172-07), the defendant was charged with Fleeing/Eluding a Police Officer, Escape, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor, Accident Causing Damage to an Unattended Vehicle, Driving the Wrong Way on a One Way Street, and Speeding. On June 9 at 00:15, Sgt. Jeffrey Ditz was conducting surveillance at Sam's Pizza Island on Hannum Avenue and West Washington Street when he observed what he suspected to a transaction involving the furnishing of alcohol to underage subjects. Sgt. Ditz observed the driver of a gold Ford Taurus loading seven bottles of a malt liquor product into a black Ford Explorer allegedly driven by McGeehan. Both vehicles then turned eastbound on Washington Street.
Sgt. Ditz then initiated a traffic stop of the defendant's SUV on the 200 block of West Washington Street when McGeehan pulled over briefly then allegedly took off in a matter of seconds. Sgt. Ditz hadn't even provided the called in the traffic stop to dispatch before the defendant fled, going the wrong way on Darlington Street and then going westbound on West Chestnut Street, at one point going nearly 60 mph. The 17-year-old passenger of the SUV testified that McGeehan allegedly said "I'm going" after he pulled over. Sgt. Ditz then attempted to intercept the SUV by taking a different routing than the SUV. The SUV eventually crashed into a tree on the 100 block of North Brandywine Street. After the accident, both McGeehan and his passenger ran up the hill behind the former Bishop Shanahan campus and jumped several fences before the passenger was arrested.
Judge Bruno dismissed the Escape charge against McGeehan after his attorney successfuly argued that McGeehan's actions did not meet the legal definition of escape, which requires a defendant to be in "official detention" which had not been executed at the time of the traffic stop; McGeehan was held for trial in Common Pleas Court on the remaining charges. McGeehan had been at Chester County Prison after absconding from Drug Court, which he later withdrew from. He remains at CCP in lieu f $7,500 cash bail...
While that was the only hearing, there were some other noteworthy events that took place today:
Carl G. Donato, Jr., 25, of Malvern, was scheduled for a hearing on charges filed by Chester County Detective Harold Dutter that he provided a false urine sample during a drug test at the Adult Probation Office. Donato, who was charged with Attempting to Furnish a Drug-Free Urine, Obstructing Administration of Law or Other Governmental Function, and Tampering With Evidence, failed to appear for court. As such, Judge Bruno issued a bench warrant for his arrest (15-1-01, CR-0000206-07)...
Tamal James Forchion, 24, of Willingboro, N.J., pled guilty to a summary charge of Disorderly Conduct after an incident at the Landmark Americana bar shortly after midnight on August 18. Forchion had made restitution following the incident and had agreed not to return to the establishment. He had admitted that he used bad judgement when he said he was trying to play peacemaker; suffice to say that didn't work too well, hence the charges. In exchange for the payment of restitution and guilty plea, a misdemeanor charge of Criminal Mischief was withdrawn (15-1-01, CR-0000229-07).
Forchion's friend, who had bailed him out not too long after being arrested and seeing his bail set at $1,500 cash, was in attendance. There's no doubt that Forchion, a professional basketball player who plies his craft overseas, will never hear the end of it from his boys over in Willingboro. At least Forchion manned up and accepted responsibility for his actions, which is more than most knuckleheads who pass through the system do...
Which brings us to Brian Thomas Ems...
Ems, 20, of Trevose, Bucks County, was scheduled for a 09:00 preliminary hearing on charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, Underage Drinking, and Disorderly Conduct (15-1-01, CR-0000096-07). Ems' co-defendant, Daniel Easton, 20, of Levittown, Bucks County, faced similar charges, however he successfully completed a summary agreement where he ended up pleading guilty to Disorderly Conduct in exchange for a withdrawl of the remaining charges (15-1-01, CR-0000097-07). Ems had been slated to recieve the same disposition, however there were a couple slight snags in the plan:
(1) Ems showed up at 11:30, claiming he had transportation issues, yet he never notified the court, and (2) while going over his summary agreement, Ems didn't seem to take the proceedings seriously.
After mulling over his options, Judge Bruno ordered Ems' $2,500 unsecured bail revoked and committed him to CCP in lieu of $2,500 cash bail. Additionally, his hearing was continued to next week at 09:00; assuming he is unable to post bail, he should at least show up for his hearing. And he's not even the knucklehead of the session...
Which brings us to Michael Scott McClinton...
McClinton, 24, of Exton, was arrested twice in the past week by Cpl. Josh Lee on two separate incidents. Early Wednesday morning, McClinton was charged with Theft by Unlawful Taking and Recieving Stolen Property after allegedly stealing an unknown amount of cash from a tip jar at Barnaby's (15-1-01, CR-0000232-07); then, early Saturday morning at around 02:30, Cpl. Lee again arrested McClinton on charges of Criminal Trespassing, Harassment, and related offenses after a domestic-related incident on the 200 block of West Union Street. He remains at CCP in lieu of at least $2,500 bail on the theft charge and $5,000 bail on the trespassing charge.
This is on top of his 1543-B conviction in front of Judge Knapp last week and a separate pending case in the same court that's scheduled for a preliminary hearing on September 14. While waiting to be transported back to CCP, McClinton could be heard in the courtroom complaining about the food at CCP, so much so that his behavior was disrupting court proceedings. This guy has "state penitentary" written all over him...
Meanwhile, another defendant who was scheduled for a 1543-B hearing today got a rather startling surprise from the Commonwealth of Virginia in the form of a bench warrant and extradition request. Stephen Antoine Strickland, 22, of West Chester, appeared in court to answer to a 1543-B charge after a traffic stop by Sgt. Marty Deighan on June 5. Upon his arrival, he was informed of a bench warrant issued for felony charges of Grand Larceny and Burglary filed in Rockingham County, Va. He was committed to CCP on $25,000 cash bail with an extradition hearing scheduled for September 24 in the Court of Common Pleas (15-1-01, AR-0000144-07)...
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
CORRECTIONS
Last month, I reported on the cases of John Joseph Sweeney, who had two DUI cases filed against him in District Court 15-1-01; apparently, this is what happens when you rely exclusively on docket sheets without getting the full story. Sweeney was arrested for DUI, but there was only one DUI incident. Due to a paperwork snafu, Sweeney's case was listed twice and apparently had two separate docket numbers and OTN's (Official Tracking Numbers) - CR-0000212-07 and CR-0000216-07/OTN #K598517-3. As of today, the CR-0000212-07 docket sheet is unavailable. I apologize to Mr. Sweeney for the error on my part...
As far as the matter of Commonwealth vs. Tanya Renee Thompson (15-1-04, CR-0000262-07), it's apparent that when she was arraigned in front of Judge Knapp a few weeks ago, the fact that the victim was flown to Crozer-Chester Medical Center was not included in the Criminal Complaint that was filed with the court. Hence, given the information made available to the court and the bail agency, bail was set where it was. Her hearing is scheduled for Friday, so we'll wait and see what happens with her bail situation...
Having said that, I do plan on filing a report from Tuesday's Criminal Day in front of Judge Bruno, which you can be assured will be accurate...
As far as the matter of Commonwealth vs. Tanya Renee Thompson (15-1-04, CR-0000262-07), it's apparent that when she was arraigned in front of Judge Knapp a few weeks ago, the fact that the victim was flown to Crozer-Chester Medical Center was not included in the Criminal Complaint that was filed with the court. Hence, given the information made available to the court and the bail agency, bail was set where it was. Her hearing is scheduled for Friday, so we'll wait and see what happens with her bail situation...
Having said that, I do plan on filing a report from Tuesday's Criminal Day in front of Judge Bruno, which you can be assured will be accurate...
Purchase, NY Jobs
Purchase is a hamlet located in the town of Harrison, New York. Purchase is home to the headquarters of Pepsi Co. Inc, Mastercard Worldwide, and Atlas Air, Inc. Purchase is also home to the Westchester County Airport.
The Boyce Group currently has an opening for a relationship manager, and Madison Pension Services is actively seeking a pension consultant.
Other opportunities include: associate brand manager, mutual funds/insurance attorney.
Click here for a complete listing of Purchase NY jobs.
The Boyce Group currently has an opening for a relationship manager, and Madison Pension Services is actively seeking a pension consultant.
Other opportunities include: associate brand manager, mutual funds/insurance attorney.
Click here for a complete listing of Purchase NY jobs.
Pound Ridge, NY Jobs
The town of Pound Ridge is in the eastern corner of Westchester County. It boasts famous names such as lifelong resident Vera Wang, actor Mike Myers, and press secretary for President George W. Bush (01-03) Ari Fleischer.
Free Enterprise is searching for an Editor/IT/AV in Pound Ridge.
Click here for a full listing of Pound Ridge NY Jobs.
Free Enterprise is searching for an Editor/IT/AV in Pound Ridge.
Click here for a full listing of Pound Ridge NY Jobs.
Monday, August 27, 2007
PHELAN CONVICTED
After less than an hour of deliberations, a jury of seven women and five men convicted Thomas Edwin Phelan of 24 counts of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, 18 counts of Statutory Sexual Assault, 42 counts of Indecent Assault, and one count each of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Corrupting the Morals of a Minor, and Unlawful Communication with a Minor. Phelan had been acting as his own defense attorney, assisted by Assistant Public Defender James McMullen; Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Bonnano Pitts prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth (CP-15-CR-0004430-2006).
Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. is expected to impose sentence within the next 90 days, during which time, both a pre-sentence investigation report and a sexual offender's evaulation are expected to be conducted. Testimony began on Wednesday and finally concluded this morning, Phelan presented no witnesses on his behalf. The jury instructions began shortly after 14:00 and concluded at around 15:30 or so. The jury had informed the court that a verdict had been reached at around 16:05...
Meanwhile, testimony is continuing in the McFall trial in front of Judge Strietel. I guess the info that I got earlier today that closing arguements were occurring was a little premature. In any case, it wouldn't be surprising if, just like today, some plea dispositions were moved from Judge Strietel's court to either to Judge MacElree or Judge Nagle (both of whom have Misc. Lists scheduled for tomorrow)...
Also, a pretty full docket appears on tap for Judge Bruno's Criminal Day, including a "frequent flier" with two cases pending; this particular defendant already answered to charges in front of Judge Knapp last Friday. To find out who this particular defendant is, check in tomorrow for the West Side Criminal Day recap...
Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. is expected to impose sentence within the next 90 days, during which time, both a pre-sentence investigation report and a sexual offender's evaulation are expected to be conducted. Testimony began on Wednesday and finally concluded this morning, Phelan presented no witnesses on his behalf. The jury instructions began shortly after 14:00 and concluded at around 15:30 or so. The jury had informed the court that a verdict had been reached at around 16:05...
Meanwhile, testimony is continuing in the McFall trial in front of Judge Strietel. I guess the info that I got earlier today that closing arguements were occurring was a little premature. In any case, it wouldn't be surprising if, just like today, some plea dispositions were moved from Judge Strietel's court to either to Judge MacElree or Judge Nagle (both of whom have Misc. Lists scheduled for tomorrow)...
Also, a pretty full docket appears on tap for Judge Bruno's Criminal Day, including a "frequent flier" with two cases pending; this particular defendant already answered to charges in front of Judge Knapp last Friday. To find out who this particular defendant is, check in tomorrow for the West Side Criminal Day recap...
TRIALS WRAPPING UP
The two week long trials that have taken place in court are expected to wrap up this afternoon. Closing arguements in the Thomas Phelan sexual assault trial in front of Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. is expected to begin at 13:00 today; the Mark McFall trial being heard by Judge Phyllis Strietel is also expected to go to the jury later today. Once a verdict is reached in these trials, the rest of the lists can resume (one would hope).
Several of today's pleas from both courts that were scheduled for today were heard by Judge James MacElree II, who also sentenced two cooperating witnesses in the recently completed Oscar Lugo trial as part of his regularly scheduled Miscellaneous Case docket...
Luis A. Colon, 34, was sentenced to 11-and-a-half to 23 months county incarceration and 5 years probation on two separate counts - Racketeering and Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver; based on the 3 years and 4 months while in jail awaiting trial and sentencing, Colon was paroled immediately. Felix A. Reyes, 31, pled guilty to one count of Corrupt Organizations, one count Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver, and one count of PWID. He was sentenced to 7-and-a-half to 20 years in state prison (with concurrent sentences of 5-to-10 years on the Conspiracy charge and 27 months-to-20 years on the Corrupt Organizations charge). Lugo, 37, is tentatively scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday at 13:30.
Several of today's pleas from both courts that were scheduled for today were heard by Judge James MacElree II, who also sentenced two cooperating witnesses in the recently completed Oscar Lugo trial as part of his regularly scheduled Miscellaneous Case docket...
Luis A. Colon, 34, was sentenced to 11-and-a-half to 23 months county incarceration and 5 years probation on two separate counts - Racketeering and Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver; based on the 3 years and 4 months while in jail awaiting trial and sentencing, Colon was paroled immediately. Felix A. Reyes, 31, pled guilty to one count of Corrupt Organizations, one count Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver, and one count of PWID. He was sentenced to 7-and-a-half to 20 years in state prison (with concurrent sentences of 5-to-10 years on the Conspiracy charge and 27 months-to-20 years on the Corrupt Organizations charge). Lugo, 37, is tentatively scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday at 13:30.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Ossining, NY Jobs
The town of Ossining is well known as the town that houses Sing Sing Correctional Facility, a famous New York state prison. Ossining is a very diverse town that boasts great schools, shopping, and historic districts.
Worldwide Trade Partners LLC is looking to fill a Tax Professional position in Ossining.
Click here for a complete listing of Ossining NY Jobs.
Worldwide Trade Partners LLC is looking to fill a Tax Professional position in Ossining.
Click here for a complete listing of Ossining NY Jobs.
New Rochelle, NY Jobs
New Rochelle is the seventh largest city in New York, and the second largest city in Westchester County. It is only 16 miles from Grand Central Station.
Cosi has openings for managers and shift leaders. Lippman Eyecare Centers has openings for an Ophthamalic Tech and Receptionist.
A mid-sized real estate company in New Rochelle is searching for someone to cover a three month span as an administrative assistant.
Click here for a complete listing of New Rochelle, NY jobs.
Cosi has openings for managers and shift leaders. Lippman Eyecare Centers has openings for an Ophthamalic Tech and Receptionist.
A mid-sized real estate company in New Rochelle is searching for someone to cover a three month span as an administrative assistant.
Click here for a complete listing of New Rochelle, NY jobs.
Mount Kisco, NY Jobs
Named the "Best Family Town" by InTown Magazine, Mount Kisco has a lot to offer. There is something for everyone; plenty of shopping surrounded by woodsy nature.
People's United Bank has an opening for a Financial Service Associate in Mount Kisco.
Click here for a complete listing of Mount Kisco, NY jobs.
People's United Bank has an opening for a Financial Service Associate in Mount Kisco.
Click here for a complete listing of Mount Kisco, NY jobs.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
FINALLY CATCHING UP ON COURT CASES
And now, the rest of the cases that I've been procrastinating about posting to this site, with a few West Chester cases and a few non-West Chester cases thrown in...
April Blackie, 38, of Coatesville pled guilty to DUI and Endangering the Welfare of a Child after a DUI stop on the outskirts of Coatesville. On November 26, 2006 at 11:13, Coatesville Police were dispatched to the report of an erratic driver at the Turkey Hill at Routes 82 & 340 on the Coatesville/West Brandywine border. An employee from Turkey Hill reported that the defendant was in the store and was visibly intoxicated. The employee also reported a toddler was in the defendant's vehicle, of which a full description was given to police by the employee. After administering field sobriety tests, Blackie was taken to Brandywine Hospital where her BAC level was .21. Her 4-year-old son was also found not to be properly restrained in a child seat. The Commonwealth asked for a minumum of 10 days at CCP and 2 years consecutive probation, while the defense asked for the 72 hour minimum and 1 year concurrent probation. Ultimatley, Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. sentenced Blackie to 5 days to 6 months in jail and 1 year concurrent probation (CP-15-CR-0000832-2007)...
Michael Joseph Pagano, 35, of West Chester, recieved a state prison term following a robbery at a popular uptown coffee shop. On March 26 at 19:39, the manager of Sprazzo's at 27 North High Street reported Pagano had stolen an unknown amount of cash from the tip jar. He then fled southbound on High Street and was chased by both the store manager and a civilian. Pagano was located at East Miner Street and Sharon Alley where he threw some of the bills to the ground, then approached the two chasees with a brick. About a half hour later, Ofc. Thomas Flick located Pagano on the 200 block of East Union Street; the manager made a positive ID and Pagano was arrested. Pagano's criminal history is rather extensive:
Um, no.
Judge Phyllis Strietel actually decided to throw the book at Pagano, sentencing him to 1-to-2 years in state prison, with credit for 140 days time served and ordered Pagano to submit a DNA sample for the state database as a convicted felon. How many "frequent fliers" have committed more serious offenses over the years and never set foot inside SCI Camp Hill (where all new state inmates are initially processed)? It doesn't seem like that many, but at last now Pagano and his lengthy history with WCPD and other local agencies will remain unchanged for the next year or so (CP-15-CR-00001439-2007)...
Meanwhile, a Newlin man who led police on a lengthy high speed pursuit from Westtown to East Fallowfield with a stop at his Newlin home, was given a relatively generous sentence as par t of a plea bargain. Frank Joseph Mariani IV, 40, led police on a high speed chase that initially related to an burglary investigation on the 1100 block of South New Street in Westtown.
On March 6 at around 13:45, Ofc. David Leahy of the Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police responded to the residence after a construction worker was approached by Mariani, who asked if the residence was home of Pocopson's resident village idiot Brandon "Bam" Margera. Mariani claimed he was searching for a guitar that was in the residence.
When Ofc. Leahy approached the vehicle, Mariani sped off heading northbound on New Street through the WCU South Campus. Officers initially lost sight of Mariani's truck on Route 842 and Allerton Road in East Bradford. Officers later located Mariani's truck at his residence on the 1000 block of Brandywine Creek Road in Newlin.
Mariani then fled from officers again, racing along the back roads of Newlin, West Bradford, and East Fallowfield, including driving his truck through the East Fallowfield Elementary School property on Strasburg Road. After driving through several yards and fields and striking a pole along the way, Mariani eventually bailed out from his truck in the area of a storage facility on Route 82. At 17:25, the Philadelphia Police Department's Tac-Air 1 helo located the suspect walking towards Route 82. West Caln Township Police Chief Curt Martinez (a former East Fallowfield officer) apprehended Mariani a short time later (CP-15-CR-0001580-2007).
Mariani picked up those charges while out on bail for a domestic related incident at his Newlin residence. On October 3, 2006 at 15:00, Tpr. Eric Hostelling of PSP/Embreeville responded to the residence after his wife reported the defendant made threats to her and displayed a pistol in the waistband of his pants. He was later served a "302 warrant" (involuntary committment to a mental health facility) and a .40 caliber pistol was recovered (CP-15-CR-0002496-2007).
For his actions relating from the pursuit and the domestic, Mariani was sentenced to 44 days to 23 months at CCP (with credit for time served while in custody awaiting his preliminary hearing) and three years consecutive probation on charges for Fleeing/Eluding Police, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Resisting Arrest, and Defiant Trespassing from the Westtown incident and sentenced to 3 years concurrent probation on a Terroristic Threats charge from Newlin. Nice deterrent, huh?
Finally, we bring three defendants who ran afoul of the law on the West Chester University campus...
Barry Cosby, 27, of Philadelphia, had two cases pending relating to two separate incidents within a week of each other at WCU. On January 19 at 00:16, Sgt. Matthew Paris of WCU Police observed the defendant and his girlfriend what appeared to be a cigarette while attending a dance at the Ehringer Gym. Both Cosby and his girlfriend were arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance. Cosby was ordered not to return to the campus and that he would be subject to arrest if he did return (CP-15-CR-0002604-2007).
On February 2 at 11:57, Sgt. Paris observed Cosby entering Goshen Hall, though he was tied up on other matters, namely the execution of an unrelated search warrant. A review of the dorm's surveillance tapes showed Cosby sign into the dorm where his girlfriend was living the day before at 23:40. A few days later, while out at Judge Bruno's court, Sgt. Paris informed Cosby that he would be charged with Defiant Tresspassing (CP-15-CR-0002606-2007).
On February 20, Cosby was given the opportunity to enter into a summary disposition agreement where the charges in both cases would be reduced to summary offenses if he complied with the terms of the agreement. On May 22, Cosby was given a 30 day extension to come up with the full amount of costs in order to complete the agreement. On June 26, after Cosby failed to appear for court, his charges in both cases were automaticially waived to Common Pleas Court and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest.
For what it's worth, Cosby's girlfriend, Laneek Ashley Jones, 20, of Philadelphia, was charged a month after the incident on Drug Possession, Public Drunkeness, and Underage Drinking charges which were reduced to a summary Disorderly Conduct charge after complying with her agreement (15-1-01, CR-0000057-07).
Cosby, for his part, pled guilty to one count of Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, and was sentenced to 1-to-12 months at CCP and ordered to pay the $105 Lima Lab fee. He also pled guilty to Defiant Tresspassing and sentenced to 15 days to 11 months at CCP...
Adrianna Ferranti, 21, and Dupreme Taylor, 23, both of Piscataway, N.J., each pled guilty to one count of Recieving Stolen Property and Conspiracy following an incident at the F-Lot on the West Chester University campus. On June 4, 2006 at 03:10, the victim reported to WCU police that a set of rims and tires were stolen from her vehicle parked at F-Lot at South New and West Linden Streets. About an hour earlier, WCU Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Ferranti in which Taylor was a passenger. The officer observed rims and tires in the back of the SUV. A review of the surveillance cameras from F-Lot showed the suspect vehicle entering the lot at 01:50 and leaving 15 minutes later. Judge Riley sentenced Ferranti to 2 years probation (CP-15-CR-0004041-2006) and Taylor to 3 years probation (CP-15-CR-0003926-2006). They were ordered to pay $1,601.38 restitution to the victim...
Well, I'm making progress in updating these cases. There are a couple more cases from West Whiteland which I will comment on in a day or two. Also, I will get around to posting that Drug Court graduation ceremony from Wednesday as soon as I can find my notes from that ceremony...
April Blackie, 38, of Coatesville pled guilty to DUI and Endangering the Welfare of a Child after a DUI stop on the outskirts of Coatesville. On November 26, 2006 at 11:13, Coatesville Police were dispatched to the report of an erratic driver at the Turkey Hill at Routes 82 & 340 on the Coatesville/West Brandywine border. An employee from Turkey Hill reported that the defendant was in the store and was visibly intoxicated. The employee also reported a toddler was in the defendant's vehicle, of which a full description was given to police by the employee. After administering field sobriety tests, Blackie was taken to Brandywine Hospital where her BAC level was .21. Her 4-year-old son was also found not to be properly restrained in a child seat. The Commonwealth asked for a minumum of 10 days at CCP and 2 years consecutive probation, while the defense asked for the 72 hour minimum and 1 year concurrent probation. Ultimatley, Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. sentenced Blackie to 5 days to 6 months in jail and 1 year concurrent probation (CP-15-CR-0000832-2007)...
Michael Joseph Pagano, 35, of West Chester, recieved a state prison term following a robbery at a popular uptown coffee shop. On March 26 at 19:39, the manager of Sprazzo's at 27 North High Street reported Pagano had stolen an unknown amount of cash from the tip jar. He then fled southbound on High Street and was chased by both the store manager and a civilian. Pagano was located at East Miner Street and Sharon Alley where he threw some of the bills to the ground, then approached the two chasees with a brick. About a half hour later, Ofc. Thomas Flick located Pagano on the 200 block of East Union Street; the manager made a positive ID and Pagano was arrested. Pagano's criminal history is rather extensive:
- On July 2, 1996, Pagano was arrested by Sgt. William Camlin of West Goshen Police after allegedly defrauding the Holiday Inn on South High Street of $82.00. He pled guilty to one count of Unlawful Possesion of Device Making Equipment and sentenced by Judge Lawrence Wood to 44 days to 23 months at CCP (CP-15-CR-0003712-1996).
- On June 27, 1997, Pagano was pulled over on a traffic stop by Ofc. Jeffrey Murray and charged with DUI; Judge Wood sentenced Pagano to 47 days to 12 months at CCP and ordered to pay $500 restitution to his victim (CP-15-CR-0002896-1997).
- On the very next day after Ofc. Murray charged Pagano with DUI, Ofc. Christopher Craig charged Pagano with MVA Involving Damage to an Attended Vehicle (hit-and-run); Pagano was sentenced to 1 year probation consecutive to the DUI parole and ordered to pay $675 in restitution (CP-15-CR-0003314-1997).
- On January 3, 1998, Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police charged Pagano with Unsworn Falsification to Authorities, Forgery, and Public Drunkeness following an incident in Westtown Township; on June 22, 1998, Pagano pled guilty to the Unsworn Falsification charge and was sentenced by Judge Riley to 1 year probation and ordered to perform 100 hours community service (CP-15-CR-0000099-1998).
- On June 11, 2000, Pagano was charged with Simple Assault, Harassment, Unlawful Restriant, Criminal Attempt/Voluntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, and False Imprisonment following a domestic dispute in Modena filed by Tpr. Charles Cox of PSP/Embreeville; on September 6, 2000, Pagano was sentenced by Judge James MacElree II to 88 days to 23 months at CCP and ordered to complete a domestic violence program (CP-15-CR-0002767-2000).
- On September 9, 2001, Pagano was arrested by West Goshen Police on charges of Unlawful Use of a Computer/Destroy Data, Theft, Recieving Stolen Property, and Disorderly Conduct following an incident at Commerce Bank; on November 21, 2001, Judge MacElree sentenced Pagano to 5 days to 23 months in prison and ordered Pagano to pay $1,200 restitution (CP-15-CR-0003803-2001).
Um, no.
Judge Phyllis Strietel actually decided to throw the book at Pagano, sentencing him to 1-to-2 years in state prison, with credit for 140 days time served and ordered Pagano to submit a DNA sample for the state database as a convicted felon. How many "frequent fliers" have committed more serious offenses over the years and never set foot inside SCI Camp Hill (where all new state inmates are initially processed)? It doesn't seem like that many, but at last now Pagano and his lengthy history with WCPD and other local agencies will remain unchanged for the next year or so (CP-15-CR-00001439-2007)...
Meanwhile, a Newlin man who led police on a lengthy high speed pursuit from Westtown to East Fallowfield with a stop at his Newlin home, was given a relatively generous sentence as par t of a plea bargain. Frank Joseph Mariani IV, 40, led police on a high speed chase that initially related to an burglary investigation on the 1100 block of South New Street in Westtown.
On March 6 at around 13:45, Ofc. David Leahy of the Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police responded to the residence after a construction worker was approached by Mariani, who asked if the residence was home of Pocopson's resident village idiot Brandon "Bam" Margera. Mariani claimed he was searching for a guitar that was in the residence.
When Ofc. Leahy approached the vehicle, Mariani sped off heading northbound on New Street through the WCU South Campus. Officers initially lost sight of Mariani's truck on Route 842 and Allerton Road in East Bradford. Officers later located Mariani's truck at his residence on the 1000 block of Brandywine Creek Road in Newlin.
Mariani then fled from officers again, racing along the back roads of Newlin, West Bradford, and East Fallowfield, including driving his truck through the East Fallowfield Elementary School property on Strasburg Road. After driving through several yards and fields and striking a pole along the way, Mariani eventually bailed out from his truck in the area of a storage facility on Route 82. At 17:25, the Philadelphia Police Department's Tac-Air 1 helo located the suspect walking towards Route 82. West Caln Township Police Chief Curt Martinez (a former East Fallowfield officer) apprehended Mariani a short time later (CP-15-CR-0001580-2007).
Mariani picked up those charges while out on bail for a domestic related incident at his Newlin residence. On October 3, 2006 at 15:00, Tpr. Eric Hostelling of PSP/Embreeville responded to the residence after his wife reported the defendant made threats to her and displayed a pistol in the waistband of his pants. He was later served a "302 warrant" (involuntary committment to a mental health facility) and a .40 caliber pistol was recovered (CP-15-CR-0002496-2007).
For his actions relating from the pursuit and the domestic, Mariani was sentenced to 44 days to 23 months at CCP (with credit for time served while in custody awaiting his preliminary hearing) and three years consecutive probation on charges for Fleeing/Eluding Police, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Resisting Arrest, and Defiant Trespassing from the Westtown incident and sentenced to 3 years concurrent probation on a Terroristic Threats charge from Newlin. Nice deterrent, huh?
Finally, we bring three defendants who ran afoul of the law on the West Chester University campus...
Barry Cosby, 27, of Philadelphia, had two cases pending relating to two separate incidents within a week of each other at WCU. On January 19 at 00:16, Sgt. Matthew Paris of WCU Police observed the defendant and his girlfriend what appeared to be a cigarette while attending a dance at the Ehringer Gym. Both Cosby and his girlfriend were arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance. Cosby was ordered not to return to the campus and that he would be subject to arrest if he did return (CP-15-CR-0002604-2007).
On February 2 at 11:57, Sgt. Paris observed Cosby entering Goshen Hall, though he was tied up on other matters, namely the execution of an unrelated search warrant. A review of the dorm's surveillance tapes showed Cosby sign into the dorm where his girlfriend was living the day before at 23:40. A few days later, while out at Judge Bruno's court, Sgt. Paris informed Cosby that he would be charged with Defiant Tresspassing (CP-15-CR-0002606-2007).
On February 20, Cosby was given the opportunity to enter into a summary disposition agreement where the charges in both cases would be reduced to summary offenses if he complied with the terms of the agreement. On May 22, Cosby was given a 30 day extension to come up with the full amount of costs in order to complete the agreement. On June 26, after Cosby failed to appear for court, his charges in both cases were automaticially waived to Common Pleas Court and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest.
For what it's worth, Cosby's girlfriend, Laneek Ashley Jones, 20, of Philadelphia, was charged a month after the incident on Drug Possession, Public Drunkeness, and Underage Drinking charges which were reduced to a summary Disorderly Conduct charge after complying with her agreement (15-1-01, CR-0000057-07).
Cosby, for his part, pled guilty to one count of Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, and was sentenced to 1-to-12 months at CCP and ordered to pay the $105 Lima Lab fee. He also pled guilty to Defiant Tresspassing and sentenced to 15 days to 11 months at CCP...
Adrianna Ferranti, 21, and Dupreme Taylor, 23, both of Piscataway, N.J., each pled guilty to one count of Recieving Stolen Property and Conspiracy following an incident at the F-Lot on the West Chester University campus. On June 4, 2006 at 03:10, the victim reported to WCU police that a set of rims and tires were stolen from her vehicle parked at F-Lot at South New and West Linden Streets. About an hour earlier, WCU Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Ferranti in which Taylor was a passenger. The officer observed rims and tires in the back of the SUV. A review of the surveillance cameras from F-Lot showed the suspect vehicle entering the lot at 01:50 and leaving 15 minutes later. Judge Riley sentenced Ferranti to 2 years probation (CP-15-CR-0004041-2006) and Taylor to 3 years probation (CP-15-CR-0003926-2006). They were ordered to pay $1,601.38 restitution to the victim...
Well, I'm making progress in updating these cases. There are a couple more cases from West Whiteland which I will comment on in a day or two. Also, I will get around to posting that Drug Court graduation ceremony from Wednesday as soon as I can find my notes from that ceremony...
Mamaroneck, NY Jobs
The town of Mamaroneck has 2 villages: Larchmont and the Village of Mamaroneck. Although the majority of the population live in these 2 villages, the majority of the land in Mamaroneck is an unincorporated area.
Advanced Communications Inc. has an opening for a Cable TV/Internet/Phone Installer.
Click here for a full listing of Mamaroneck NY Jobs.
Advanced Communications Inc. has an opening for a Cable TV/Internet/Phone Installer.
Click here for a full listing of Mamaroneck NY Jobs.
Friday, August 24, 2007
EAST SIDE CRIMINAL DAY - 8/24/07
Nine defendants (covering 11 cases) had their days in front of Judge Knapp during today's Criminal Day at 15-1-04. Only one hearing took place this morning, with the remaining cases waived up or continued.
In the day's lone hearing, James Raymond Baron, 44, whose last known address was Sadsburyville, was charged with failing to comply with the requirements of the Megan's Law sex offenders registry. Tpr. Bruce Lehman of the PSP Megan's Law Records Unit at Harrisburg headquarters, testified that on June 13, Baron updated his information with PSP at the Embreeville barracks as required by law, giving an address as the Safe Harbor shelter. However, WCPD Det. Stan Billie testified that patrol officers made contact with Baron at Marshall Square Park; in a follow up interview, Det. Billie testified that Baron had been evicted from Safe Harbor shortly after updating his information with PSP after allegedly urinating in another resident's locker. When asked why he did not notify PSP of his change in living status, Baron allegedly replied "I did not want to." The criminal complaint filed by WCPD indicated Baron's address as "homeless", which would not satisfy PSP's requirements that an address be associated with a physical location. Baron was held for court on the lone count and remains at Chester County Prison in lieu of $5,000 bail (15-1-04, CR-0000232-07).
That's not to say there were other interesting developments that took place today...
Benjamyn Larone Boggs, who appeared in front of Judge Bruno earlier in the week on drug related charges, waived his preliminary hearing on charges of Harassment, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Resisting Arrest, and Drug Possession charges (15-1-04, CR-0000197-07). Boggs remains in custody on an active bench warrant from Downingtown District Court and likely will have a Violation of Probation detainer lodged against him, if one hasn't been already...
Jeffrey Christopher Stair, the knucklehead who managed to pick up three separate drug possession charges in less than 6 weeks, waived his preliminary hearings on two of the cases involving possession of cocaine; those cases were filed by Ofc. Bill Viebahn (15-1-04, CR-0000227-07) and Ofc. David Hammond (15-1-04, CR-0000279-07). In exchange for the waiver, the Commonwealth withdrew marijuana possession charges filed by Ofc. Jason O'Neill (15-1-04, CR-0000211-07). Stair's bail was modified to 10 percent of $3,500 bail ($1,000 on Ofc. Viebahn's charges and $2,500 on Ofc. Hammond's charges), however he was committed to Delaware County Prison on a bench warrant relating to a DUI case...
James B. Allison, 28, of Oxford, had been held in Chester County Prison on $500 bail by Thorndale District Judge James Charley after his arrest by Ofc. John DiBattista over the weekend on Drug Possession and Trespassing charges (15-1-04, CR-0000280-07); he had a previous case filed by Ofc. Greg Cugino on drug possession and paraphanalia charges (15-1-04, CR-0000236-07). His bail had been posted and his hearing on the new charges continued to September 14, though his preliminary hearing on Ofc. Cugino's charges is scheduled for September 7...
Michelle Lee Adderton had her hearing continued to next Friday on charges of Witness Intimidation (15-1-04, CR-0000278-07). Despite my previous comment that there was a chance the hearing might have to be moved to another court, it was determined that despite the allegations being related to a case heard in front of Judge Knapp, the allegations did not occur in her presence, and as such she will hear the case next week...
Michael Scott McClinton, 24, of Exton, had a summary hearing on charges of Driving Under a Suspended License/DUI-Related (aka "1543-B"), which is the quirky summary charge that carries a mandatory jail term if convicted and requires an ADA to prosecute the case. The case stemmed from a traffic stop by Ofc. Hammond on March 22.
McClinton's DUI case stemmed from a January 26, 2006 traffic stop by (you guessed it) Ofc. Hammond. McClinton was originally accepted into ARD on July 25, 2006 by Judge Anthony Sarcione. On November 28, 2006, McClinton was removed from the program by Judge Edward Griffith. On January 16, McClinton pled guilty to DUI 1st Offense/3rd Tier and Fleeing/Eluding Police and was sentenced by Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. to 72 hours to 6 months at Chester County Prison, 1 year concurrent probation, and fined $1,500 ($1,000 on the DUI charge and $500 on the Fleeing charge); charges of Terroristic Threats, Harassment, and two traffic offenses were nolle prossed. It would not be surprising if McClinton has his probation violated as a result of these new charges (CP-15-CR-0001629-2006).
McClinton was found guilty on the 1543-B charge and is slated to be formally sentenced on October 1, pending an appeal to the Court of Common Pleas. His defense attorney had indicated the possibility of applying for the Intermediate Punishment Program, though how it would be handled at the District Court is unclear (15-1-04, TR-0002140-07).
McClinton also faces charges of Institutional Vandalism, Criminal Mischief, and Public Drunkeness following a August 5 incident investigated by Ofc. Dave Stuart; his preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 14 (15-1-04, CR-0000259-07)...
Felix Quintero, who was arriagined in front of Judge Bruno last week on a DUI charge and held at CCP in lieu of $5,000 cash bail, appeared in front of Judge Knapp on a Public Drunkeness citation; he pled guilty and was essentially sentenced to time served at CCP, which at least cleared that case out of the system (15-1-04, NT-0001282-07)...
And finally, after Kurt David Christman, 20, of Wyomissing, Berks County was arraigned on felony charges relating to today's early morning chase (see post below), one more arraignment took place. Jessee R. Franco, 19, of Brick, N.J., was arraigned on DUI and Careless Driving charges after a traffic stop in Westtown this morning by Ofc. David Leahy of the Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police. Franco is now free after posting 10 percent of $2,500 bail and has a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled for August 30 in West Goshen District Court (15-2-03, CR-0000277-07).
And that wrapped up a relatively slow (caseload wise, at least) but interesting Criminal Day at 15-1-04...
In the day's lone hearing, James Raymond Baron, 44, whose last known address was Sadsburyville, was charged with failing to comply with the requirements of the Megan's Law sex offenders registry. Tpr. Bruce Lehman of the PSP Megan's Law Records Unit at Harrisburg headquarters, testified that on June 13, Baron updated his information with PSP at the Embreeville barracks as required by law, giving an address as the Safe Harbor shelter. However, WCPD Det. Stan Billie testified that patrol officers made contact with Baron at Marshall Square Park; in a follow up interview, Det. Billie testified that Baron had been evicted from Safe Harbor shortly after updating his information with PSP after allegedly urinating in another resident's locker. When asked why he did not notify PSP of his change in living status, Baron allegedly replied "I did not want to." The criminal complaint filed by WCPD indicated Baron's address as "homeless", which would not satisfy PSP's requirements that an address be associated with a physical location. Baron was held for court on the lone count and remains at Chester County Prison in lieu of $5,000 bail (15-1-04, CR-0000232-07).
That's not to say there were other interesting developments that took place today...
Benjamyn Larone Boggs, who appeared in front of Judge Bruno earlier in the week on drug related charges, waived his preliminary hearing on charges of Harassment, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Resisting Arrest, and Drug Possession charges (15-1-04, CR-0000197-07). Boggs remains in custody on an active bench warrant from Downingtown District Court and likely will have a Violation of Probation detainer lodged against him, if one hasn't been already...
Jeffrey Christopher Stair, the knucklehead who managed to pick up three separate drug possession charges in less than 6 weeks, waived his preliminary hearings on two of the cases involving possession of cocaine; those cases were filed by Ofc. Bill Viebahn (15-1-04, CR-0000227-07) and Ofc. David Hammond (15-1-04, CR-0000279-07). In exchange for the waiver, the Commonwealth withdrew marijuana possession charges filed by Ofc. Jason O'Neill (15-1-04, CR-0000211-07). Stair's bail was modified to 10 percent of $3,500 bail ($1,000 on Ofc. Viebahn's charges and $2,500 on Ofc. Hammond's charges), however he was committed to Delaware County Prison on a bench warrant relating to a DUI case...
James B. Allison, 28, of Oxford, had been held in Chester County Prison on $500 bail by Thorndale District Judge James Charley after his arrest by Ofc. John DiBattista over the weekend on Drug Possession and Trespassing charges (15-1-04, CR-0000280-07); he had a previous case filed by Ofc. Greg Cugino on drug possession and paraphanalia charges (15-1-04, CR-0000236-07). His bail had been posted and his hearing on the new charges continued to September 14, though his preliminary hearing on Ofc. Cugino's charges is scheduled for September 7...
Michelle Lee Adderton had her hearing continued to next Friday on charges of Witness Intimidation (15-1-04, CR-0000278-07). Despite my previous comment that there was a chance the hearing might have to be moved to another court, it was determined that despite the allegations being related to a case heard in front of Judge Knapp, the allegations did not occur in her presence, and as such she will hear the case next week...
Michael Scott McClinton, 24, of Exton, had a summary hearing on charges of Driving Under a Suspended License/DUI-Related (aka "1543-B"), which is the quirky summary charge that carries a mandatory jail term if convicted and requires an ADA to prosecute the case. The case stemmed from a traffic stop by Ofc. Hammond on March 22.
McClinton's DUI case stemmed from a January 26, 2006 traffic stop by (you guessed it) Ofc. Hammond. McClinton was originally accepted into ARD on July 25, 2006 by Judge Anthony Sarcione. On November 28, 2006, McClinton was removed from the program by Judge Edward Griffith. On January 16, McClinton pled guilty to DUI 1st Offense/3rd Tier and Fleeing/Eluding Police and was sentenced by Judge Howard F. Riley, Jr. to 72 hours to 6 months at Chester County Prison, 1 year concurrent probation, and fined $1,500 ($1,000 on the DUI charge and $500 on the Fleeing charge); charges of Terroristic Threats, Harassment, and two traffic offenses were nolle prossed. It would not be surprising if McClinton has his probation violated as a result of these new charges (CP-15-CR-0001629-2006).
McClinton was found guilty on the 1543-B charge and is slated to be formally sentenced on October 1, pending an appeal to the Court of Common Pleas. His defense attorney had indicated the possibility of applying for the Intermediate Punishment Program, though how it would be handled at the District Court is unclear (15-1-04, TR-0002140-07).
McClinton also faces charges of Institutional Vandalism, Criminal Mischief, and Public Drunkeness following a August 5 incident investigated by Ofc. Dave Stuart; his preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 14 (15-1-04, CR-0000259-07)...
Felix Quintero, who was arriagined in front of Judge Bruno last week on a DUI charge and held at CCP in lieu of $5,000 cash bail, appeared in front of Judge Knapp on a Public Drunkeness citation; he pled guilty and was essentially sentenced to time served at CCP, which at least cleared that case out of the system (15-1-04, NT-0001282-07)...
And finally, after Kurt David Christman, 20, of Wyomissing, Berks County was arraigned on felony charges relating to today's early morning chase (see post below), one more arraignment took place. Jessee R. Franco, 19, of Brick, N.J., was arraigned on DUI and Careless Driving charges after a traffic stop in Westtown this morning by Ofc. David Leahy of the Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police. Franco is now free after posting 10 percent of $2,500 bail and has a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled for August 30 in West Goshen District Court (15-2-03, CR-0000277-07).
And that wrapped up a relatively slow (caseload wise, at least) but interesting Criminal Day at 15-1-04...
CHASE IN THE EAST END
A Berks County man faces serious charges after an early morning pursuit though the East End that resulted in damage to a patrol car, a civilian car, and a police bike. Kurt David Christman, 20, of Wyomissing, faces numerous felony charges after fleeing from a traffic stop.
At around 01:17, WCPD officers attempted to pull over a black Volkswagen that had run a red light at High and Market Streets. The vehicle, allegedly driven by Christman, was eventually pulled over by Ofc. John O'Hare at High and Linden Streets. According to the criminal complaint filed in District Cour t 15-1-04, Christman refued to provide his information to officers and attempted to drive off, striking a WCPD bicycle operated by Cpl. Pam Baumann after being commanded to stop. Christman allegedly drove off southbound on High Street before turning onto Rosedale Avenue, then leading WCPD officers on a chase through the East End neighborhood.
At East Union and South Walnut Streets, Christman allegedly struck a marked WCPD (which is believed to be the infamously cursed "1-25" slick top) driven by Ofc. Brendon McGeehan before turning westbound on Union and northbound back onto South High. Christman then struck a civilian auto at High and Miner Streets before fleeing northbound on High out of the borough. About a half-hour later, Chester County Police Radio issued a flash for the car.
Not too long after the flash was put out, West Goshen Police were dispatched for a report of a suspicious individual walking northbound on Pottstown Pike in the area of the Wawa on Green Hill Road; initial reports indicated the subject was wearing an orange shirt and reportedly attempted to flag down a West Whiteland police officer who appeared to be heading to or from Chester County Hospital with a DUI suspect, though that's not entirely certain. West Goshen Ofc. Wesley Holman made contact with the subject and after determining that the suspicious individual was possibly involved in WCPD's pursuit, Ofc. Holman transported the suspect to WCPD headquarters, where Christman was positively identified as the operator of the car in question and processed (WCPD #20070824M0008).
Christman was arraigned this morning in front of Judge Knapp on two counts of Aggravated Assault, four counts of Simple Assault (graded as felonies), one count of Escape, one count of Recklessly Endangering Another Person, two counts of Fleeing/Eluding Police, two counts of Accidents Involving Attended Motor Vehicles (hit-and-run in layman's terms), one count of Underage Drinking, and four separate motor vehicle code offenses. Christman's bail was set at $5,000 cash bail; it's unknown as of this time whether or not that bail was posted. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for next Friday morning in front of Judge Knapp (15-1-04, CR-0000286-07).
Christman also reportedly has a DUI case pending, though at this point, there's no case docket listed on the AOPC web site; I would suspect the case was filed in Berks County, so it's unknown how the West Chester case would affect the DUI case.
At around 01:17, WCPD officers attempted to pull over a black Volkswagen that had run a red light at High and Market Streets. The vehicle, allegedly driven by Christman, was eventually pulled over by Ofc. John O'Hare at High and Linden Streets. According to the criminal complaint filed in District Cour t 15-1-04, Christman refued to provide his information to officers and attempted to drive off, striking a WCPD bicycle operated by Cpl. Pam Baumann after being commanded to stop. Christman allegedly drove off southbound on High Street before turning onto Rosedale Avenue, then leading WCPD officers on a chase through the East End neighborhood.
At East Union and South Walnut Streets, Christman allegedly struck a marked WCPD (which is believed to be the infamously cursed "1-25" slick top) driven by Ofc. Brendon McGeehan before turning westbound on Union and northbound back onto South High. Christman then struck a civilian auto at High and Miner Streets before fleeing northbound on High out of the borough. About a half-hour later, Chester County Police Radio issued a flash for the car.
Not too long after the flash was put out, West Goshen Police were dispatched for a report of a suspicious individual walking northbound on Pottstown Pike in the area of the Wawa on Green Hill Road; initial reports indicated the subject was wearing an orange shirt and reportedly attempted to flag down a West Whiteland police officer who appeared to be heading to or from Chester County Hospital with a DUI suspect, though that's not entirely certain. West Goshen Ofc. Wesley Holman made contact with the subject and after determining that the suspicious individual was possibly involved in WCPD's pursuit, Ofc. Holman transported the suspect to WCPD headquarters, where Christman was positively identified as the operator of the car in question and processed (WCPD #20070824M0008).
Christman was arraigned this morning in front of Judge Knapp on two counts of Aggravated Assault, four counts of Simple Assault (graded as felonies), one count of Escape, one count of Recklessly Endangering Another Person, two counts of Fleeing/Eluding Police, two counts of Accidents Involving Attended Motor Vehicles (hit-and-run in layman's terms), one count of Underage Drinking, and four separate motor vehicle code offenses. Christman's bail was set at $5,000 cash bail; it's unknown as of this time whether or not that bail was posted. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for next Friday morning in front of Judge Knapp (15-1-04, CR-0000286-07).
Christman also reportedly has a DUI case pending, though at this point, there's no case docket listed on the AOPC web site; I would suspect the case was filed in Berks County, so it's unknown how the West Chester case would affect the DUI case.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Our Readers Respond...
Push Polling Is Disgraceful
Dear Editor:
It’s no wonder that people are sick and tired of the Greenburgh Town Council. Dirty politics seems to be their stock and trade. First they meet secretly with a developer to try to cut a deal for themselves, now they are
lying about their opponents. I received a telephone “poll” last week and was asked that if I knew that candidate Kevin Morgan supported the policies of President Bush would I be less likely to vote for him for Town Council?
Why would Democratic primary candidates attack their fellow Democrats in such an unfair way? I know Kevin Morgan and I know that he does not support the policies of George Bush - not to mention the fact that national
policies have nothing to do with Greenburgh government.
What is the purpose for these divisive tactics? How will Democrats address such unethical behavior from supposedly Democratic candidates who are really a blight on the party? They are making it up, just like
the last election.
Two years ago the Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee found that Frances Sheehan and Diane Juettner lied when they stated Kevin Morgan didn’t support a woman’s right to choose.
Guess what, they are lying again. I’m voting for Kevin Morgan for Town Council. It looks like the Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee is going to have its work cut out for it again. Greenburgh needs a fair election with fair protection for true Democrats.
Garrett Cronin, White Plains
Fair Campaign Practices Committee Contact Info
Dear Editor:
The Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee will be in operation for the 16th straight year, affording candidates an opportunity to bring charges of unfair campaign practices before our committee for a hearing and ruling. We need your help in alerting candidates about our service.
If you need additional information, please contact Stephanie Sarnoff, chair, at 914-276-0760.
Judy Hamilton
More On Push Polling And Dirty Tricks
Dear Editor:
Kevin Morgan, candidate for Greenburgh Town Council, said that Democrats in Greenburgh are being called by an anonymous “pollster”, whose real purpose is campaigning for his opponents. The poll asks voters what they think about Supervisor Feiner, Morgan, and his running mate Sonja Brown and Clerk candidate Judith Beville.
The poll, which asks a number of questions about each candidate, is actually designed to discourage voters from voting for Morgan and his running mates by fabricating stories about their record and views. Karl Rove would be proud.
Gary Cronin, a registered Democrat in Greenburgh and the recipient of the “poll”, said that he was angered when the “pollster” asked if he would think differently about Morgan if he knew that Morgan supported George Bush’s
policies. “I know Kevin, know that he is not a George Bush supporter and was offended that they would lie about him. This is dirty politics at its worst.”
Morgan attributed his 2005 loss to Francis Sheehan to last-minute mailings claiming that Morgan was not pro choice. The mailings were sent shortly before primary day so that Morgan wouldn’t have a chance to respond. Morgan has always been pro choice. Polly Rothstein, founder of Westchester Coalition for Legal Abortion, verified Morgan’s pro choice views, and even told Sheehan not to go forward with his accusations because they weren’t true. Truth, of course, was not what Sheehan was interested in. After the election the Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee found that Francis Sheehan and Diana Juettner sent out unfair campaign literature. Morgan said, “I don’t want to lose the election again because my opponents are saying things about me that just aren’t true.”
Friends of Kevin Morgan
Former Correction Officer Expresses Concern for Richard DiGuglielmo
Dear Editor:
I would like to start by thanking you for a phenomenal newspaper, which prints an uncensored description of corruption within Westchester County.
I was reading the article in your August 9, 2007 paper regarding Richard DiGuglielmo (The Wheels
of Justice Finally Turn), and would like to give some insight. In 1996 I was employed by the Westchester County Department of Corrections. I clearly remember the incident which took place, and have been very upset with the unjust prosecutorial misconduct brought upon Mr. DiGuglielmo by our former DA, Jeanine Pirro. I remember
watching Richard walk down the long corridor, being escorted by a sergeant, to his housing unit within the institution. ere was a frightened, despondent look on Richard’s face as he approached me. I commented
to him, “Stay strong, my brother, we are here for you.” He glanced up at me and I could see a tear starting to fill his eye.
One day later, I was working the visitation room when Richard entered, only to see his mother and beaten father sitting at a table waiting to greet and console their son. I couldn’t help but notice the casted hand of his father, along with the massive dark bruise on his thigh area because he was wearing shorts.
At this point, I said to myself, “what is this man doing in a cage?” He did not only do what he was trained to as a police officer, but was expected by every son to do to protect their father from a bat-wielding, violent assaulter.
Not only did our DA at the time maliciously prosecute him in order to uphold her 98 percent conviction rate, she sent him to prison. As I understand it, there might be another Constitutional violation which Richard’s defense is concerned about. is is very troubling to the citizens of Westchester County who placed their trust and faith
in the hands of our former DA. She abused her power, not only once with the denial of Jeffrey Deskovic’s
plea for DNA comparison, but with Brady violations involving the DiSimone case. How many other violations did her office commit?
How many other people did she maliciously prosecute and convict? Ninety-eight percent is a big ratio.
Even the New York Yankees can’t win every game.
Mr. Garcia, isn’t it about time you step up to the plate and indict this criminal who instructed her ADAs
to follow her lead like a chorus line, violating the trust and faith of every citizen within this county? Please,
don’t be intimidated by her $400 snake skin shoes or her $200 haircuts ($1.5 million joint tax return).
After all, how would she feel wearing an orange jumpsuit! It was also stated that she had a confidential
hook within your department. You surely have a lot of work ahead of you, Mr. Garcia.
From a concerned law enforcement officer
What A Coinkadink
We would prefer to give everyone, within reason, the benefit of the doubt. And so, we would prefer to think that the reason Mayor Amicone’s payroll swelled by $1.2 million after he accepted Nicky Spano’s endorsement
has nothing to do with the fact that Nicky’s State Senate payroll, before he lost to Andrea Stewart-Cousins, had been, you guessed it, $1.2 million. We would prefer to think that it’s only a coincidence.
Yes, it’s true that there are Nicky People all over Yonkers City Hall, and they’ve been there for many months, some weaving baskets, still others twiddling their thumbs, since about the time of the endorsement. But, We would prefer to think that everyone of those 30 or more new Yonkers City employees were really qualified and very needed to fill the particular essential jobs they now perform. After all, there are certain Civil Service rules and regulations that govern the hiring of public employees you know; something to do with being chosen off a competitive performance list.
Imagine some observers have been going around suggesting that Nicky’s former staff were actually given preferential treatment, in fact, hired to do little, if anything, at their old pay scale. Once again, We prefer to believe that it’s all just a coincidence.
Then again, suppose, just suppose, those observers are on to something, that it’s not merely a coincidence that all those new hires from Spanoville just happen to be costing what they were costing when they worked in the office of the State Senator from the 35th Senatorial District. Why, if that is the case, then the unimaginable might be true, and We would prefer not to think of Phil Amicone and Nick Spano in that light. If that really is the case, then Mr. Amicone would be paying off Nick Spano for his worthless, oops, endorsement with more than a million dollars-worth of jobs for Nicky’s flunkies, with money from the public treasury.
We ask ourselves, “Is Phil Amicone the sort of person who would do such a corrupt and underhanded thing? Would he cut a deal with a tired ‘has-been’ who’s unemployed only because he couldn’t steal another election?”
We consider the Mayor’s conduct in office in weighing our conclusion. Phil Amicone has done absolutely nothing to quell the frightening proclivity for violence of the Yonkers Police Department, a department known for its brutality even amongst other police departments. Phil Amicone is capable of lying about having performed a life-saving maneuver just to make himself look heroic. Phil Amicone cannot tolerate fair, and truthful scrutiny and criticism, as evidenced by his confiscation of 56 distribution boxes of The Westchester Guardian, and the arrest of Guardian employees in violation of the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution, as well as applicable New York State statutes.
In light of all of the above We must, reluctantly, but reasonably, conclude that yes, Mayor Phil Amicone is quite capable of cutting such a cynical deal with the likes of Nick Spano, and paying it off with taxpayers’ money.
Push Polling Is Disgraceful
Dear Editor:
It’s no wonder that people are sick and tired of the Greenburgh Town Council. Dirty politics seems to be their stock and trade. First they meet secretly with a developer to try to cut a deal for themselves, now they are
lying about their opponents. I received a telephone “poll” last week and was asked that if I knew that candidate Kevin Morgan supported the policies of President Bush would I be less likely to vote for him for Town Council?
Why would Democratic primary candidates attack their fellow Democrats in such an unfair way? I know Kevin Morgan and I know that he does not support the policies of George Bush - not to mention the fact that national
policies have nothing to do with Greenburgh government.
What is the purpose for these divisive tactics? How will Democrats address such unethical behavior from supposedly Democratic candidates who are really a blight on the party? They are making it up, just like
the last election.
Two years ago the Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee found that Frances Sheehan and Diane Juettner lied when they stated Kevin Morgan didn’t support a woman’s right to choose.
Guess what, they are lying again. I’m voting for Kevin Morgan for Town Council. It looks like the Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee is going to have its work cut out for it again. Greenburgh needs a fair election with fair protection for true Democrats.
Garrett Cronin, White Plains
Fair Campaign Practices Committee Contact Info
Dear Editor:
The Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee will be in operation for the 16th straight year, affording candidates an opportunity to bring charges of unfair campaign practices before our committee for a hearing and ruling. We need your help in alerting candidates about our service.
If you need additional information, please contact Stephanie Sarnoff, chair, at 914-276-0760.
Judy Hamilton
More On Push Polling And Dirty Tricks
Dear Editor:
Kevin Morgan, candidate for Greenburgh Town Council, said that Democrats in Greenburgh are being called by an anonymous “pollster”, whose real purpose is campaigning for his opponents. The poll asks voters what they think about Supervisor Feiner, Morgan, and his running mate Sonja Brown and Clerk candidate Judith Beville.
The poll, which asks a number of questions about each candidate, is actually designed to discourage voters from voting for Morgan and his running mates by fabricating stories about their record and views. Karl Rove would be proud.
Gary Cronin, a registered Democrat in Greenburgh and the recipient of the “poll”, said that he was angered when the “pollster” asked if he would think differently about Morgan if he knew that Morgan supported George Bush’s
policies. “I know Kevin, know that he is not a George Bush supporter and was offended that they would lie about him. This is dirty politics at its worst.”
Morgan attributed his 2005 loss to Francis Sheehan to last-minute mailings claiming that Morgan was not pro choice. The mailings were sent shortly before primary day so that Morgan wouldn’t have a chance to respond. Morgan has always been pro choice. Polly Rothstein, founder of Westchester Coalition for Legal Abortion, verified Morgan’s pro choice views, and even told Sheehan not to go forward with his accusations because they weren’t true. Truth, of course, was not what Sheehan was interested in. After the election the Westchester County Fair Campaign Practices Committee found that Francis Sheehan and Diana Juettner sent out unfair campaign literature. Morgan said, “I don’t want to lose the election again because my opponents are saying things about me that just aren’t true.”
Friends of Kevin Morgan
Former Correction Officer Expresses Concern for Richard DiGuglielmo
Dear Editor:
I would like to start by thanking you for a phenomenal newspaper, which prints an uncensored description of corruption within Westchester County.
I was reading the article in your August 9, 2007 paper regarding Richard DiGuglielmo (The Wheels
of Justice Finally Turn), and would like to give some insight. In 1996 I was employed by the Westchester County Department of Corrections. I clearly remember the incident which took place, and have been very upset with the unjust prosecutorial misconduct brought upon Mr. DiGuglielmo by our former DA, Jeanine Pirro. I remember
watching Richard walk down the long corridor, being escorted by a sergeant, to his housing unit within the institution. ere was a frightened, despondent look on Richard’s face as he approached me. I commented
to him, “Stay strong, my brother, we are here for you.” He glanced up at me and I could see a tear starting to fill his eye.
One day later, I was working the visitation room when Richard entered, only to see his mother and beaten father sitting at a table waiting to greet and console their son. I couldn’t help but notice the casted hand of his father, along with the massive dark bruise on his thigh area because he was wearing shorts.
At this point, I said to myself, “what is this man doing in a cage?” He did not only do what he was trained to as a police officer, but was expected by every son to do to protect their father from a bat-wielding, violent assaulter.
Not only did our DA at the time maliciously prosecute him in order to uphold her 98 percent conviction rate, she sent him to prison. As I understand it, there might be another Constitutional violation which Richard’s defense is concerned about. is is very troubling to the citizens of Westchester County who placed their trust and faith
in the hands of our former DA. She abused her power, not only once with the denial of Jeffrey Deskovic’s
plea for DNA comparison, but with Brady violations involving the DiSimone case. How many other violations did her office commit?
How many other people did she maliciously prosecute and convict? Ninety-eight percent is a big ratio.
Even the New York Yankees can’t win every game.
Mr. Garcia, isn’t it about time you step up to the plate and indict this criminal who instructed her ADAs
to follow her lead like a chorus line, violating the trust and faith of every citizen within this county? Please,
don’t be intimidated by her $400 snake skin shoes or her $200 haircuts ($1.5 million joint tax return).
After all, how would she feel wearing an orange jumpsuit! It was also stated that she had a confidential
hook within your department. You surely have a lot of work ahead of you, Mr. Garcia.
From a concerned law enforcement officer
What A Coinkadink
We would prefer to give everyone, within reason, the benefit of the doubt. And so, we would prefer to think that the reason Mayor Amicone’s payroll swelled by $1.2 million after he accepted Nicky Spano’s endorsement
has nothing to do with the fact that Nicky’s State Senate payroll, before he lost to Andrea Stewart-Cousins, had been, you guessed it, $1.2 million. We would prefer to think that it’s only a coincidence.
Yes, it’s true that there are Nicky People all over Yonkers City Hall, and they’ve been there for many months, some weaving baskets, still others twiddling their thumbs, since about the time of the endorsement. But, We would prefer to think that everyone of those 30 or more new Yonkers City employees were really qualified and very needed to fill the particular essential jobs they now perform. After all, there are certain Civil Service rules and regulations that govern the hiring of public employees you know; something to do with being chosen off a competitive performance list.
Imagine some observers have been going around suggesting that Nicky’s former staff were actually given preferential treatment, in fact, hired to do little, if anything, at their old pay scale. Once again, We prefer to believe that it’s all just a coincidence.
Then again, suppose, just suppose, those observers are on to something, that it’s not merely a coincidence that all those new hires from Spanoville just happen to be costing what they were costing when they worked in the office of the State Senator from the 35th Senatorial District. Why, if that is the case, then the unimaginable might be true, and We would prefer not to think of Phil Amicone and Nick Spano in that light. If that really is the case, then Mr. Amicone would be paying off Nick Spano for his worthless, oops, endorsement with more than a million dollars-worth of jobs for Nicky’s flunkies, with money from the public treasury.
We ask ourselves, “Is Phil Amicone the sort of person who would do such a corrupt and underhanded thing? Would he cut a deal with a tired ‘has-been’ who’s unemployed only because he couldn’t steal another election?”
We consider the Mayor’s conduct in office in weighing our conclusion. Phil Amicone has done absolutely nothing to quell the frightening proclivity for violence of the Yonkers Police Department, a department known for its brutality even amongst other police departments. Phil Amicone is capable of lying about having performed a life-saving maneuver just to make himself look heroic. Phil Amicone cannot tolerate fair, and truthful scrutiny and criticism, as evidenced by his confiscation of 56 distribution boxes of The Westchester Guardian, and the arrest of Guardian employees in violation of the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution, as well as applicable New York State statutes.
In light of all of the above We must, reluctantly, but reasonably, conclude that yes, Mayor Phil Amicone is quite capable of cutting such a cynical deal with the likes of Nick Spano, and paying it off with taxpayers’ money.
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