Francis M. Degnan, a long-time resident of Goshen, passed peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on April 26, 2022. Francis was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, the son of a fire captain with the Jersey City Fire Department. Francis honorably and proudly served in the 78th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army. After completing the New York State Police Academy, Francis served for 30 years with the Troop F Barracks in Middletown, NY. After retirement, Francis enjoyed working for the Goshen Central School Bus District. Francis was a dedicated member of the Elks Club, American Legion, and a devoted parishioner of St. John's Church. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, and was an enthusiastic reader, history buff, and N.Y. Giants fan. Francis is predeceased by his beautiful wife of 55 years, Veronica and is survived by his daughters Karen (and her husband John) and Lorraine, his son Ryan, and his four grandchildren, Jason, Jenna, Kaitlyn and Sara. Francis will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor. Family and friends visitation will be held at Saint John the Evangelist RC Church, 71 Murray Avenue, Goshen, NY on Friday, April 29, 2022, from 4-7 PM. The Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 2, 2022, at 10:00 AM at the Saint John the Evangelist RC Church, Goshen, NY with a burial to follow at the Orange County Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to St. John's Church, 71 Murray Avenue, Goshen, NY 10924.

 James "Jamie" Mathews April 28, 2022 James (Jamie) Mathews born in Syracuse, New York on February 13, 1944. He graduated from Central Technical High School and attended the University of Americas in Mexico City and the New York State Police Academy. James was an employee of Mohawk Airlines prior to joining the New York State Police. As a New York State Trooper he was assigned to the 270 Rifle team, Bomb Squad and Robot operator. Trooper Mathews was promoted to the Bureau of Criminal Investigations in Troop D assigned to several high profile narcotic cases throughout the State of New York. Throughout his career he received several commendations. After retirement James was elected Town Justice in Skaneateles, New York and owned Mathews & Associates investigative services. He then moved onto the Sunshine State of Florida becoming a resident of Pompano Beach. James embodied two important areas of life which were God and Country. Not to forget his fun loving humor, a unique character for sure. James was predeceased by his Father, John Mathews and Mother, Sarah A. Mathews. James is survived by his brother, John "Jack" Mathews, a niece Sarah and nephew Anson Mathews and a great niece Mahogany Mathews. Also importantly are the many brothers and sisters in law enforcement and close relationships, including his long time confidant Barbara McGrath, all who he loved. Lastly, his companion Susan Lennox of Auburn, New York. Visitation will be prior to the service at the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 14 at 10:00am in Our Lady of Hope Church, 4845 South Salina Street, Syracuse, NY 13205. Burial will be in Onondaga Valley Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the New York State Troopers Foundation in honor of Jamie Mathews. Please leave Memories and Condolences on syracuse.com/obits

 This years shoot will be held on Wednesday July 20th starting at 10am until 2pm. It will be held at the Sportsmans Coobhunters Club located at 8776 Hopkins rd in the town of Batavia. (just west of Batavia between rts 5 and 33).
The cost remains the same at a $45 donation.
Needed for the shoot are:

 Pistol or Auto (if auto at least 2 mags)

Holster for each weapon

50 rounds of factory ammo

retired Id Card

State Pistol Permit

Eye and Ear protection

 Attached Affidavit

In order to make the shoot go smooth i  will need a head count by 10 July. If you plan on attending this years shoot contact me at [email protected] or 585 409-8451.  I hope to see you there again this year.
Gary

 Norman L. Kilfoyle passed away in his home on 3/23/2022 in Virginia Beach with family at his side.

Norm was born February 27, 1935 in Schenectady, N.Y., the son of the late Frank and Doris (Trafton) Kilfoyle.

A veteran of the US Navy (1954), he spent most of his service time in Istanbul, Turkey.

Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Norm joined the New York State Police, where he proudly served for 21 years. While serving as a trooper, he enjoyed many special assignments including the motorcycle unit and the Underwater Recovery Team (Scuba).

He was a Mason, a member of the American Legion and VFW, a private pilot, Sailboat Captain and an awesome chef. Later, he was the manager of the Villa Roma Disco, and worked in the oil business.

Norm is survived by his wife Gail, children Susan Bostic, James Kilfoyle (Jami), Jeffrey and Trish Mayer, Jennifer and Scott Vogeler and Keith Sneddon. Grandchildren Corey and Tanya, Michele and Michael, Kaitlyn and Dana, Jordyn, Alexandra, Samantha, Gavin, Nicole, Maggie, Alex, Devan, Jeffrey, Edward, Matthew, Alyssa and several great-grandchildren and so many wonderful friends.

Norm is predeceased by his parents, his brother James Kilfoyle, and his son Scott Mayer.

A service will be held at His Word Revealed Church, 205 State Route 28, Kingston, on Friday, April 22, 2022 at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to either:
Hudson Valley Hospice, 400 Aaron Court, Kingston, NY 12401 or
American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

Arrangements are under the guidance of Gilpatric-VanVliet Funeral Home, 339 Broadway, Ulster Park, www.GVVFH.com

Service Details

Memorial Service
When
Friday, April 22nd, 2022 3:00pm

Location
His Word Revealed Church
Address
205 State Route 28
Kingston, NY 12401

 It is with deep sadness that I announce the death of Mr. James Sauer, retired Division Civilian Pilot, Aviation-Rochester.  Mr. Sauer, a medevac pilot for Mercy Flight in Batavia, NY, was killed on 04/26/2022 when the Bell 429 helicopter he was flying with a pilot from Bell Helicopter crashed in the town of Elba, Genesee County.  There were no survivors.  He is survived by his wife and two children.  Mr. Sauer was also a 40-year veteran of the U.S. Army. 

 All,
Sad news received from Doris Fairchild that retired Sr. Inv. Roger Fairchild, age 85 had a stroke at their residence in Loudon TN and passed away on Thursday April 21st. There was no funeral service and he was cremated. The family will be planning a memorial in the Cornwall area sometime in the future. She can be contacted at 865 657-3388.

Good Afternoon,


Attached is the flyer for the NFC Chicken BBQ, which will be held Wednesday, July 6, 2022, 5:00 pm at Fontana's Grove, 229 Clinton St, Buffalo, NY 14227.  The cost remains the same as past years, $20.00 per person. There will be door prizes and the final drawing of Limited 250 Club LXXXIII. Guests are welcome.  Paid reservations by June 22, 2022, 

If you have any questions or you are unable to open the attachment please contact me. 

Stay Well,
Terry 

 [Credit Doug Wingate via Ed Carr]
RETIRED, BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
EDWARD HOLOHEAN
By Albina Fraser

Schenectady Gazette
[circa 1986]
  Troopers didn’t always patrol the state in blue and gold cars or rein in criminals with the help of sophisticated radio equipment. 

  Edward Holohean remembers when the patrols were done on horseback, the work shifts lasted a whole season, and a pocketful of nickels for the telephone was as valuable as any present-day two way radio. 
  For instance: Holohean, 81, a retired state trooper, recalls an event in January, 58 years ago, when he was a new member of Troop G barracks in Troy. 
  On that day in 1928 Holohean was assigned to ride his horse from the Troy barracks to Wells for winter patrol duties.  Joining him was Trooper J.J. Lutz. 
  The 80-mile trip took five days, with night stops for eating and sleeping - and to feed and rest the horses - at farms set up as regular stops. 
  After spending the winter months patrolling the summer homes around Wells and Speculator, the two troopers returned overland to the Troy barracks.
  The troopers were to travel on horseback to their destination for effect - to show residents that troopers were on duty. 
  In those early days of the State Police, Holohean said, troopers served 24-hour duty  days, were paid $900 a year, and were issued all the items of their uniforms except underwear, but including their .45 caliber revolvers. 
  A native of Kingston, Holohean joined the State Police in Albany in 1927 when he was 23 years old. Before that he served with the National Guard and New York Central Police from 1921 until 1926. 
  Assigned to Troop G, he was a member of the mounted constabulary, a unit formed in 1918, and was one of the first members of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). He also was a member of one of two “rough rider” mounted teams, and is the sole survivor of his seven- member team. 
  The rough riders traveled on horseback to area fairs in Schenectady, Cobleskill and the Catskills during the three summers of their existence. Here they demonstrated their trick-riding abilities,  balancing on their shoulders on the backs of the horses, doing flips to sit backward in the saddle, and jumping from one side of a horse to the other.
  The trick-riding teams were disbanded to perform traffic duty when more and more cars began using the roads. Holohean spent the following eight years on traffic duty, riding his motorcycle in the summer  and horse in the winter. 
  The retired trooper was one of the first to have a radio, which was in its testing stages at the time. 
  He had a one-way receiver which alerted him to contact the base by a loud buzzing noise. He said he had to carry a pocketful of nickels, which he had to provide himself, to telephone the barracks. He said that immediately on hearing the buzz he would head for the nearest pay  phone to notify headquarters of his location. 
  Holohean recalls escorting on his motorcycle such notables as Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was governor at the time; Admiral Richard Byrd, and Charles  Lindbergh.
  Following his retirement from the State Police in 1953 after serving 25 years, Holohean started his second career as chief of security at the Saratoga Harness Track. He worked there for 20 years, retiring in  1973.
  One of his most memorable accomplishments was when he served as chairman of a Polio Vaccine Program in 1955. Nearly 4,700 children in schools within Saratoga County were inoculated. He set up and  recruited two nurses and two doctors and other personnel for the clinics held in each school.
  Holohean said it was a tremendous job made easier by five very dedicated women. For his role in this endeavor, he was given a commendation from Basil O’Connor, national chairman of the March of  Dimes.
  Holohean also served as chairman of the county and Saratoga Springs March of Dimes campaigns, was involved in PTA and the Boy Scouts, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He served as  president of Saratoga Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and the Former Troopers Association of the Capital District.
  Holohean is married and the father of three children. Despite two steel hip replacements, Holohean still loves to ride horses.

 RASH - Patricia G. (nee Iudice)
Of Lancaster, NY, April 14, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Thomas Rash, Sr.; loving mother of Thomas Jr. (Darbi) Rash and Ann (Dennis) Cronin and the late Francis (JoAnn) Rash; also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; predeceased by brothers and sisters; survived by nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Pompeii RC church, Lancaster, Tuesday, April 19, at 10 AM. Please assemble at church. No prior visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please share condolences online at www.wendelandloecherinc.com
I apologize for the late notice, but I missed the death notice in Sunday's Buffalo News. Our Sincere Condolences to Tom and his family.

 GOOCH - Rita (nee McGee)
Allentown, formerly of Buffalo, passed away on April 16, 2022. Beloved wife of Clifford; dearest mother to Mary Beth [John] Tompsett, Jeffery [Elania] Gooch, Lesley [Jon] Christman and Jennifer [David] Gooch-Johnston; eight grandchildren, one great-grandson; two brothers-in-law, Thomas [Pat] Wozniak and Hank Gath; two sisters-in-law, Shirley Reinig and Betty Windover; several nieces and nephews; predeceased by three brothers, Robert, Thomas and Eugene McGee; four sisters, Nancy McGee, Margaret Kremer, Jane Gath and Kathleen Wozniak. Friends are invited to call on Wednesday from 4-7 pm at the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home in Wellsville. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday at 11 am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Scio.

 It is with deep regret that Major R. Anthony Oliver, Troop Commander, Troop B, announces the death of Trooper Richard A. Garcia.  Trooper Garcia passed away on April 6, 2022, at the age of 79.  Trooper Garcia served with the State Police from February 16, 1970, until his retirement on May 27, 1999.  His last duty assignment was at SP Ray Brook.  Trooper Garcia is the father of Troop B, Communication Specialist, Leigh G. Olcott.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.

 Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen is saddened to announce the death of retired Major Rodrick C. Covington, who passed away from cancer on March 31, 2022, stemming from his assignment in and around the World Trade Center site, following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

Major Covington retired from the New York State Police, after 27 years of service, on November 28, 2008.
Following the events of 9/11, Major Covington was assigned as the Detail Commander of the Executive Services Detail during response and recovery efforts in New York City.
Major Covington is survived by his wife and four children.


Services
Monday, April 11, 2022
Viewing: 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Funeral Service: 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
The Abyssinian Baptist Church
132 Odell Clark Place, New York, New York10030


Interment
Tuesday, April 12, 2022 10:00 AM
Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum Farmingdale, New York 1735
(Gather at 966 Centennial Avenue, Baldwin, New York 11510 at 9:00 AM sharp)

 MECHANICVILLE Orrin J. Barr Jr. 84, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 31, 2022, surrounded by his family. Born in Albany, he was the son of the late Orrin and Gloria Barr. He graduated from Christian Brothers Academy and was a N.Y.S. Trooper for 32 years. He later was a driver for UPS. Orrin was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a communicant of Saint Ambrose Church. He also enjoyed playing shuffleboard with friends. Orrin was the husband of the late Patricia Barr; father of Deborah (Robert) Jensen, and Orrin J. Barr; stepfather of the late Shelly Cavotta; grandfather of James and Katlin Trifiletti, Brittney Pierce, Taylor Barr, Eric, Alexander and Isabelle Jensen; and great-grandfather of Kaiden, Joshua, Lilianna, Isabella and Jack Trifiletti. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with his family on Thursday, April 7, from 12 to 1 p.m. in the Daniel Keenan Funeral Home, Inc., 490 Delaware Ave., Albany. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Interment will follow in the Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Hospice, 310 S. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY, 12208. Online condolences may be offered at danielkeenanfuneralhome.com 

 KELLY, Robert F.
March 28, 2022, age 85, after a sudden illness, survived by Marie (nee Boneri) Kelly and their loving and devoted children, Renee M. (James A. Gilmore, Jr.) Kelly, Deborah (Daniel) Frase and Michael R. (Sonia Hoste) Kelly; also survived by his loving grandchildren, Nicholas B. (Chelsey Miller) Ulrich, Haley A. (Zachary Elgie) Ulrich, Dylan M. Kelly; his nephews, William G. (Elizabeth) Barrett, Robert (Barbara) Battaglia and Richard (Karen) Battaglia; predeceased by his parents, Frederick and Marguerite Kelly, his sisters, Marie Barrett Gloyd and Fern (Russell) Battaglia, and nephew, Paul Barrett. Bob graduated from Clarence High School and joined the Navy and was a photo journalist, something he loved doing all of his life. His family has been left a lifetime of photos and memories. Upon his completion of service in the Navy, he joined the NYS Police and served from 1962-1982, serving on the NYS Thruway and retired from the Clarence Troop A Barracks. He also served in the Naval and Coast Guard Reserve for 30 years. Bob was a friendly and wonderful person to all that met him. He loved boating and had many throughout his life cruising on Lake Erie. He moved to Florida in 1996 and had wonderful years there, traveling abroad and taking cruises, until deciding to brave the winters again to be with his family and friends during his "golden years". In 2018 he moved to Montabaur Heights at Brothers of Mercy and loved his life there. His children were more than happy to have him back home. We love you and thank you dad for all you have done for us. Rest easy Gray Rider. Bob was a member of the Niagara Frontier Chapter of the Former New York State Troopers. Bob donated his body to the Jacobs School of Medicine at the University of Buffalo. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date, to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob's name to the Carmelite Monastery, 75 Carmel Rd., Buffalo, NY 14214. Arrangements by AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. (716) 836-6500. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com

 Category:Administrative and Staff Positions         
Department:Public Safety
Locations:Loudonville, NY
Posted:Feb 21, 2022
Closes:Open Until Filled
Type:Full-time
Position ID:143073
   
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About Siena College:

Located in Loudonville, New York-just 10 minutes from the state capital of Albany-the Siena experience is built for a new generation of leaders eager to create a more just, peaceful and humane world. Each year, more than 3,000 Saints are empowered through a transformative journey of intellectual, spiritual and personal discovery. The Education for a Lifetime is made possible through a workforce of highly qualified and competent faculty, administrators and staff committed to fulfilling the Siena mission.

Job Description:

Serve as the first line shift supervisor and provide leadership, management and supervision to the Dispatcher and Public Safety Officers on their specific shifts.
Is responsible for providing professional public safety services to the Siena Community in the form of protection of life and property, enforcement of federal and state laws, college rules and regulations, safety, and enforcement of parking and traffic rules.
Coordinates response to emergency and crisis situations which may occur on their specific shift and serve as a direct liaison with outside agencies such as police, fire and EMS agencies.
Possess valid Security Guard license or have the ability to quickly obtain one. Be proficient in the use of all departmental equipment, including but not limited to Digital Alarm Systems, CCTV equipment, Vehicles, Alcohol Breath Analyzer, Call 24 Call Boxes, E2 Emergency Alert System, AED and all policies, rules and regulations as well as Emergency Preparedness Plans.
Oversee training for all newly hired Public Safety Officers and ensure they are proficient in their duties.
Maintain positive professional relationships with other departments within the division of Student Life as well as with the rest of the Siena College community.
Requirements:

• Minimum qualifications include a valid NYS security guard license, and an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice, Political Science, Public Administration or an appropriate area of specialization *  
• five to seven years of law enforcement/public safety/security experience; administrative/supervisory experience;
• Training Instructor/Supervisor or the ability to become certified within one year of hire; proven operational and planning skills; strong oral and written communication skills; ability to work cooperatively with a diverse population in a College setting; 
• Experience in the field of campus law enforcement or experience in a college setting is desirable;
• Candidates must possess a valid driver's license and insurability at the time of appointment and must maintain such license and insurability throughout the tenure of employment.

*Other schooling such as FBI National Academy, State Police Academies, Military Police or other Municipal Police Training Academies, years of experience and scope of duties may, upon review and acceptance, be substituted for certain requirements or education  as stated above. 
A background screening will be required.
Additional Information:

Siena College offers competitive compensation and benefits, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, a retirement plan and tuition benefits.
Siena College is a Franciscan and Catholic institution and expects members of its community to be knowledgeable about its mission and to make a positive contribution to that mission. 
Siena College is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
A full COVID-19 vaccination series is required for all employees pursuant to the COVID-19 policy. 
Application Instructions:

Please submit cover letter, resume and contact information for 3 references

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) 
https://siena.interviewexchange.com/jobofferdetails.jsp?JOBID=143073
Public Safety Lieutenant
 

 Syracuse, N.Y. – Former Syracuse Police Chief Leigh Hunt, who ran the city police department for four years after a 24-year career with the New York State Police, died Wednesday in Syracuse. He was 81.Hunt came to Syracuse in 1986 from Albany, where he retired as a major after 24 years in the state police. Former Mayor Tom Young hired Hunt after conducting a national search for a new Syracuse police chief.
His colleagues remember Hunt as a chief who cared deeply about the officers who worked for him, said retired Lt. John Corbett. That was especially true when tragedy struck. Corbett said Hunt was devastated when undercover Officer Wallie Howard Jr. was murdered in October 1990.
“That really, really weighed heavily on him,’’ Corbett said. “He was in constant contact thereafter with Wallie’s mom. Even after he left the (police department), he was in constant contact.’’
Hunt was born in Brooklyn and joined the state police in 1962, said his friend, retired state police Maj. Tim McAuliffe, of Albany. Hunt rose through the ranks, working at several barracks and in the Bureau of Criminal Investigations, until he was promoted to major and put in charge of the state police academy in Albany.
McAuliffe said Hunt was known for being deft and empathetic, both with employees and crime victims.

“I would say he was probably the best person I’ve ever seen with people,’' McAuliffe said. “As a trooper and as a BCI man, you don’t always meet the cream of the crop. He worked good with everybody.’'
As the chief in Syracuse, Hunt won praise from some community groups, who lauded him for addressing the problems of inner-city neighborhoods. But Young replaced Hunt as city police chief in December 1990, citing policy differences.
In 1991, Hunt was chosen by then-Gov. Mario Cuomo to be the state’s first director of Indian relations, a cabinet-level position. At the time, state officials faced volatile issues over Native American land claims, gambling compacts and the imposition of state sales taxes on Native American businesses.
In January 1994, Cuomo disbanded the Office of Indian Relations, and Hunt briefly took a job as assistant commissioner in the state prison system.
He ran unsuccessfully for Onondaga County sheriff in November 1994, losing to Kevin Walsh. Hunt’s campaign was marred by news that he accepted $50,000 in cash for his campaign from a Native American business owner, which he initially failed to disclose. Hunt subsequently reported the money as a campaign loan from the business owner.
Hunt has been largely out of the public eye for more than a quarter century, but he remained active in the community. He was a much-loved member of St. Lucy’s Catholic Church on the Near West Side, which is known for its food pantry and community outreach.
“He was just a real, real wonderful guy,’’ said the Rev. Jim Mathews. “Everybody loved Leigh. Very much involved. Just a real, real Christian gentleman. That’s what he was, a Christian gentleman.”
Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at St. Lucy’s, 432 Gifford St. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at the church.


https://www.syracuse.com/news/2022/03/former-syracuse-police-chief-leigh-hunt-dies-at-age-81.html

  It’s was a broken heart I write this message. My dad Robert Kelly Retired Trooper SP Clarence 1982 passed away  today.   No arrangement have been made yet. We are planning a memorial service possibly in June.   
My dad loved  being a NYS Trooper  and wore his  Stetson proudly for 20 years.   
     
 Thank you Deborah 

Bob was 85 and a Life Member of the Niagara Frontier Chapter of the AFNYST. I will email an update when I receive more information.
Our Condolences go out to his family.

 By Robert Romanowski
The Westchester County Board of Legislators has requested “home rule” legislation from Albany that would allow the County of Westchester to raise Pistol License fees to any amount.

Bill A-07939 introduced in the Assembly by Steven Otis (D-Port Chester) and S06659 in the NYS Senate by Shelly B. Mayer (D- Port Chester) would allow Westchester to have home rule.  That is, to set its own licensing fees.  Westchester County currently uses the New York State fee schedule.  All of this is being done without any comment from the public, pistol licensees or gun owners.
This legislation would allow the county to set fees for new applications, amendments and re-certifications.  It has been reported that the current $10.00 fee could rise to as much as $200.00 per year, raising the cost of a 5-year re-certification to $1000.00. This could make pistol licenses unaffordable to a whole segment of the community such as retirees, people on a fixed income and lower income wage earners.
This legislation has nothing to do with any kind of budget shortfall in Westchester County and everything to do with making a Constitutional right unaffordable to as many Westchester County residents as possible and to discourage others from applying for permits.
Beware of actions like this in our home county!
All SCOPE members are urged to contact their State Senator and Assembly member and tell them to please oppose this legislation.  By killing these bills in Albany, Westchester County cannot act on this matter.
If you are a Westchester County resident, please call 914-995-2800 to tell your County Legislator that you oppose this legislation.

 Greenfield Center - Philip C. Gargan, 81, of Greenfield Center, NY passed away, surrounded by his family, on March 13, 2022, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.Philip was born, June 15, 1940, to John and Elizabeth Gargan of New York, NY. On April 4, 1964, Philip married the love of his life, Lillian, and left the city to begin their lives in Saratoga Springs. In March 1979, they moved to Greenfield Center where they built a beautiful home and life together. Philip was a New York State Trooper for 29 years and served his community as a Saratoga Springs school board member and Greenfield town building inspector. His passions included history, aviation, and books. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Lillian, three daughters, Louise Bublak (Richard), Christine Gargan, and Gabrielle Gargan-Godlewski (Brian), and four grandchildren, Alexander Bublak (Ronie), Nicholas Bublak, Anastasia Godlewski and Alexandra Godlewski. Relatives and friends may call from 2-4pm and 6-8pm, Friday, March 18 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am, Saturday, March 19 at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 3159 NY-9N, Greenfield Center, NY. Burial will be private.Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com. https://www.lastingmemories.com/philip-c-gargan

 Geldermann, Richard, of Lindenhurst, LI, on March 14, 2022. Beloved husband of the late Catherine Geldermann. Devoted father Denise Ficalora, Corinne (Frank) DiSomma, Ricky Geldermann and Cathy (Rob) Cernilli. Cherished grandfather of Nicholas (Eileen), Carl (Piera), Frankie (Amy), Jennifer, Megan (Brandon), Robert and Richard and great grandfather of Giancarlo, Carmelina, Raffaella and Franco. Dear brother of Lucille Kozlowski and John Geldermann. Reposing at The Fredrick J. Chapey & Sons West Islip Funeral Home, 1225 Montauk Hwy. (1/4 mile west of the Robert Moses Cswy.). Celebration of the Liturgy of Christian Burial Monday, 9:45 AM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help R.C. Church, Lindenhurst, LI. Entombment to follow at Pinelawn memorial Park, Pinelawn, LI. Visiting Sunday 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s name may be made to St. Francis Hospital, 100 Port Washington Blvd., Roslyn, NY 11576. www.chapeyfamily.com

 In MemoriamOur collective thoughts and prayers go out to the men of women of the Pennsylvania State Police, who tragically lost two Troopers early Monday morning. Troopers Martin F. Mack III and Branden T. Sisca were struck and killed, along with a pedestrian they were attempting to take into custody, on I-95 outside of Philadelphia by a speeding, drunk driver. 
Funeral services for Pennsylvania State Trooper Martin F. Mack III:

A public viewing will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 30, 2022

Wade Funeral Home 
1002 Radcliffe St.
Bristol, PA 19007
A funeral Mass will be held 11 a.m. on March 31, 2022

St. Michael the Archangel Church  
66 Levittown Pkwy.
Levittown, PA 19054
Funeral services for Pennsylvania State Trooper Branden T. Sisca:

A public viewing will be held from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and then 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on April 1, 2022

Boyd-Horrox-Givnish Funeral Home
200 W. Germantown Ave.
Norristown, PA 19401
A funeral will be held at 12 p.m. on April 2, 2022

Perkiomen Valley High School
509 Gravel Pike
Collegeville, PA 19426
Shame on You!

News from Troop K
NYSTPBA Issues Statement to the Media About Cortlandt Judge's Shocking Actions

After the recent shocking actions taken by Cortlandt Town Justice Kimberly Ragazzo in releasing a defendant on his recognizance after being charged with assaulting a Trooper, the NYSTPBA issued the press release below.

For Immediate Release – March 22, 2022

Troopers’ Union Speaks Out Against Cortlandt Town Justice’s Shocking Actions 
The New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association, the union representing uniformed New York State Troopers, is shocked by the nonchalance of Cortlandt Town Justice Kimberly Ragazzo in releasing a defendant - accused of assaulting a Trooper - on his recognizance simply because the young man claimed he had a college exam the next day.

“I am disgusted by the flippant attitude of Town of Cortlandt Justice Kimberly Ragazzo,” said NYSTPBA President Thomas H. Mungeer. “Despite the defendant’s displays of violence, including assaulting a Trooper, Justice Ragazzo chose to release him without even verifying his story.”

The 22-year-old man, Bryan P. Illescas, was arrested Sunday and charged with driving while intoxicated. While in custody at the State Police barracks in Cortlandt, Illescas became combative and damaged a wall. When the man’s mother came to pick him up, he suddenly punched a Trooper in the head and caused a significant laceration to the Trooper.

Additional charges of assaulting a police officer were brought upon Illescas, and he was then brought before Justice Ragazzo for arraignment. The district attorney recommended that Illescas be required to pay $15,000 cash bail or a $30,000 bond in order to be released, but Justice Ragazzo ignored that and instead released him on his recognizance because she did not want him to miss a college midterm exam in criminal justice the next day. 

“You cannot make this stuff up! My Troopers risk their lives every day making the roadways and neighborhoods of this state safe. The last thing they need to encounter is a soft-on-crime judge who has more sympathy for a failed criminal justice major than she does for the citizens of her jurisdiction, Mungeer said. 

“Shame on you, Justice Ragazzo!”

210th Session of the Basic School Graduation

Congratulations to the 227 new State Troopers who will soon be training in the field. You are desperately needed to bolster our manpower!
The Tale of Two Cities - Reform Bail Reform

As outlined in last week’s newsletter, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 10-Point Plan to fix bail reform has many Democrats, mostly progressives, wringing their hands. However, Governor Hochul has been pragmatic about the subject of reforming bail reform – “The public is aware that I share their concerns about public safety, and that's why I am working with my team and working with the legislators to craft a position and a policy and work toward getting it in the budget,” she said earlier this week.
In One Corner

The contingent of anti-reform bail reformers has been vocal about their desire to not make any changes, with some of them rallying in the Capitol chanting “Hell No Cuomo 2.0.” Sen. Jabari Brisport (D-Brooklyn, and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America) stated, “Up until last week, I thought there was a difference between former Governor Cuomo and our current governor. I will not vote for any budget that has rollbacks [of bail reform].” Added Assemblywoman Latrice Walker (D-Brooklyn), “I love food [but] I am prepared to go on a hunger strike to make sure that this does not happen.” (Cue Gene Wilder in his best Willy Wonka tone – “Stop, don’t, come back…”)
This is a good time to segue to Sen. Liz Krueger’s (D-Manhattan) comments last Friday, “I do not believe that the Legislature thinks that the problems we are dealing with are related to the changes we made in bail reform. The data continues to reflect that the changes we made in bail are not correlated to the growth in gun violence or physical violence towards others on the streets.”

Nero [still] fiddles while Rome burns.

And in This Corner

State Sen. Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R-Lockport) said, “Pro-criminal Socialists are in control of Albany and New Yorkers have had enough. It’s time to restore public safety to our state.”
Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R-Syracuse) also said, “Every Republican in the Legislature wants changes. Gov. Hochul apparently wants changes. Eric Adams wants changes. And day by day more Democrats are finally realizing what we’ve been saying for two years – something needs to be done.”

The Skinny

The Budget is due in one week. Let’s see how much influence the moderate Democrats can assert.
We’re #4!

In their announcement of the release of their one house budget bill, the Senate Majority requested that we offer a quote. Out of nearly three score quotes, they listed ours as fourth on their overall list and we were the only law enforcement group included. Definitely big news!
Thomas Mungeer, President, NYS Troopers PBA said "The NYS Troopers PBA would like to thank Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and the NYS Senate majority for including much needed funding for the State Police. The executive proposals regarding State Police personnel and Capital projects are important issues to the NYSTPBA and our members. We are extremely happy that an additional $40 million was added on top of the Governor's proposal in the Executive Budget to support additional community safety grant programs. If this funding is included in the final budget due at the end of this month, it indicates the legislative support for public safety in New York State."

I feel like when in Semi-Pro, Will Ferrell’s character of Jackie Moon exclaims at the end of the game, “Fourth place! Fourth place!”  

This Week’s Sign that the Apocalypse is Upon Us

While responding to a report of shots fired, two officers were suddenly surprised when an armed subject stepped in front of their fully-marked St. Louis Metro Police Department vehicle and tried to carjack them. Realizing his blunder, this knucklehead fled the scene but was soon caught carrying a gun. Luckily for this aspiring criminal, he lives in St. Louis and the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office, led by progressive Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner, refused to file any charges against him. God Bless America!
Mailbag

Hello Tom, 
I just recently became aware of SUNY Brockport inviting the killer of Waverly Jones and Joseph Piagentini to speak. I wanted to thank you, for once again, standing with law enforcement members in your well written letter opposing this lecture.  

The President of the college will soon be receiving my diploma torn to pieces. I wish more alumni would think of this idea and we could do it together. I think it would be a strong symbolic act and might make future students think twice about attending this college. He wasn't a political prisoner, it's not an intellectual conversation. It's heartbreaking to families who know the pain of losing an officer and it fills me with disgust to call Brockport my alma mater for giving this killer a platform.

Thanks again, Tom. Your support of law enforcement members and their families is unwavering.

I hope all is well with you.

Sincerely,

Colleen Dillon Bergman
For those of you who do not know Colleen, she is the daughter of Trooper Emerson J. Dillon Jr., who was shot and brutally murdered on Oct. 24, 1974 while conducting a traffic stop on the NYS Thruway. He left his wife and six children to grieve his death. Colleen and her family know what it means to see a brutal killer be released while they were left to suffer decades without their loved one. They watched their father’s murderer, John Ruzas, be convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, where he remained, appearing before the parole board every few years. Colleen and her family, with the help of the NYSTPBA, valiantly made sure he remained there though numerous parole hearings as they and numerous Troopers and other law enforcement officers took the time to send letters to the Parole Board opposing the release of Ruzas. It wasn’t until Ruzas found a sympathetic ear in Supreme Court Judge Victor Grossman, who banned his next Parole Board commissioners from considering letters of opposition written by fellow Troopers as well as members of the law enforcement community nationwide, that Ruzas was finally freed in December 2017. 

I think I speak for many in our profession as well as many citizens when I state that I’m growing very tired of judges attempting to legislate from the bench and their bush-league judicial decisions. I’m weary of the new-found propensity of the NYS Parole Board to release cop-killers back into our society. I am extremely sick and tired of hearing that how the families of NYPD Officers Joseph Piagentini and Waverly Jones must now endure the pain of the flippant attitude of SUNY Brockport officials who have decided it would be educational – under the guise of free speech - for the murderer of these two police officers to spout off how he was a “political prisoner” for nearly 50 years before his undeserved release in 2020. This is a slap in the face to all who risk their lives to serve and protect the public and their families. Simply put, it’s ignorant, insulting and inexcusable.

Colleen followed up yesterday with the following:

I see they have moved the Brockport event to online. It was quite unbelievable to read that in a letter from the interim provost to professors it was stated that the possibility of a large police presence could be a " traumatizing event". Lunacy is right. 

I'm sure you realize I believe this killer should never have been released nor had the possibility of parole…….I just really felt remiss not saying life with no chance for parole would not even be justice for his heinous acts. 

Colleen

CBA

As a reminder, the numbers below will become effective on April 1, 2022 as per the current collective bargaining agreement. Note that due to our illustrious payroll lag system, Members can expect to see these increases in their April 27 paychecks. 
Base Pay will increase by 2%

Hazardous Duty Pay will increase by 2% to $4,734

Expanded Duty Pay will increase by 2% to $9,235

Regular Location Pay - Orange, Putnam and Dutchess counties are now eligible for this payment at $1,754 annually

Supplemental Location Pay will go from the current three category structure to the following two categories:

·         Orange, Putnam Dutchess at $1,332 annually
·         NYC, Rockland, Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk at $2,330 annually

Tonight 6;30pm t the Polish Falcon in Batavia, NY.

 The NYS Senate is looking for retired Police Officers, Corrections Officers, or others with a connection to law enforcement who are interested in working part time (session) as Deputy Sergeant at Arms. There are immediate openings. Session is approx. 60 days between January 1st and June 30th. The starting salary is between $12,000 and $13,000, and includes Personal days, Sick Days, and Annual Leave. 

For more information contact Benjamin M. Sturges III Sergeant At Arms at 518-455-2338