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College Student Arrested for Bomb Threat

Brianna M. Perkins age 18 of Phoenix New York was arrested by the Fulton Police Department for falsely reporting an incident on April 23, 2008.

Perkins is accused of writing a bomb threat on a bathroom stall of the Cayuga Community College located at 806 West Broadway in the City of Fulton. Perkins, after writing the threat, reported the writing to the security personnel at the College, who in turn called the Oswego County 911 Center.
The threat caused the evacuation of the college and several businesses located at 806 West Broadway, which lasted for about four hours.
Perkins gave a written statement on April 23, 2008 indicating that she did not know who had written the note.

Perkins was charged with the following offenses:

Falsely Reporting an Incident in the First Degree, two counts, Class D felony
False written statement, Class A misdemeanor

Perkins was arraignment in Fulton City Court and released on her own recognizance.

(ARRAIGNMENT INFORMATION WAS UPDATED SINCE ORIGINAL PRESS RELEASE) - 5/8/08

FULTON POLICE WIN HONOR
AT STATE TRAFFIC CONFERENCE
For agency size 26-35

May 5, 2008 - Fulton Police received a first place award at the Empire State Law Enforcement Traffic Safety conference April 29, 2008 in Glens Falls , New York . Police agencies from throughout New York are eligible to participate in the statewide Law Enforcement Challenge which assesses various components of an agency’s traffic safety initiatives. Other winners included Geneseo Police, Camillus Police, and the Cornell University Police. In addition to Chief Orlo Green, Fulton Police Departments Traffic Division Commander, Sgt. Joseph Pappalardo attended the conference where various topics were presented, including innovations in motorcycle safety, occupant protection, police pursuits and more.

As part o Fulton PD’s application for the Law Enforcement Challenge, various collision related statistics were provided along with safety enforcement activity. FPD programs include their new Bicycle head injury prevention program, Fulton PD’s School bus safety initiative, Buckle Up New York, Selective Traffic Enforcement Program which focuses on aggressive driving, STOP DWI, commercial vehicle enforcement, Operation Safe Stop, These programs are supported by funding through the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, Oswego County STOP DWI and the City of Fulton.

The First place award was accompanied with a prizes including a new STALKER radar unit valued at $3000.00. Fulton Police Department also took a second place in 2006, and a first place in last years Challenge. Winners from this year’s challenge are forwarded on to competition on the national level.

NEW POLICE OFFICER APPOINTED

At a special meeting of the Fire and Police Commission a new Police Officer was appointed to the City of Fulton Police Department. Brandon Harris was selected as the Department's newest Police Officer. Harris will replace the vacancy left by the retirement of former Police Chief Mark Spawn. He will begin at the Police Department on May 27, 2008 for a week of orientation before starting at the Central New York Police Academy at OCC on June 3. There he will undergo six months of training followed by 12 weeks of field training at the Fulton Police Department.

Arrest Made After Weekend Assault

City of Fulton Police Department : Following a lengthy investigation, Fulton Police charged William M. Corey, 22, of Hannibal with Assault in the Second Degree, a class D felony. On the night of April 26, 2008, Corey allegedly punched victim Matthew Orman several times in the face, causing facial fractures and a fracture near the base of the skull. Orman was airlifted to University Hospital in Syracuse , where he was hospitalized and later released after several days. Corey is currently held in the Fulton Police lockup pending arraignment.
    This arrest follows the investigation by Fulton Police into the possible hit and run car/pedestrian accident in the 700 block of Phillips Street in Fulton , that occurred on April 26, 2008. Through the course of the investigation, it was found that Orman’s injuries were the result of being assaulted, not struck by a car.

FULTON POLICE ANNOUNCE PROMOTION TO INVESTIGATOR

FULTON, NY - April 11, 2008 - At a special meeting of the City of Fulton Fire and Police Commission on April 10, Aimee L. May was promoted to the rank of Investigator. May joined the Fulton Police Department in 1997. May has been the recipient of many awards including, the Drug Buster award, Honorable Service award, two Exceptional Duty awards, two Mayoral Commendations and three Unit Citations. May's duties with the police department have included being the Department's Polygraphist, an Evidence Technician, former DARE Officer and a Field Training Officer.

Investigator May's new assignment is effective April 14, 2008.

AWARDS CEREMONY TO BE HELD APRIL 23rd

The City of Fulton will present its Twelfth annual Awards and Commendations Ceremony at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at the Municipal Building ( 141 South First Street , Fulton ) in the Community Room. The event will be emceed by Christie Casciano, television news anchor for WSYR NewsChannel 9.

Members of the community and public safety workers will be honored for a variety of heroic, meritorious and exemplary actions which occurred in 2007. All of the nominations for these awards have been reviewed by an Awards Committee. Some of the categories awarded this year include:

Ÿ         Lifesaving
Ÿ         Honorable Service
Ÿ         Meritorious Service
Ÿ         Community Service Awards

The ceremony will conclude with awards presented to the Firefighter of the Year and Officer of the Year. Members of the Fulton Fire and Police Departments are eligible for this award.

The public is invited to attend. The ceremony starts at 7:00 PM and will last for about an hour. Refreshments will be served after the event, courtesy of the Fulton Professional Firefighter’s Association and Fulton Police Benevolent Association.

FULTON POLICE ANNOUNCE PROMOTION TO SERGEANT

FULTON , NY - March 26, 2008 - At the regular meeting of the City of Fulton Fire and Police Commission on March 26, Craig Westbrook was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Westbrook joined the Fulton Police Department in 2001. Currently Westbrook handles "Rika" the departments only K-9. Westbrook has been the recipient of several commendations including the Gallantry Star, Unit Citation, and the Traffic Safety Bronze award. Sergeant Westbrook’s duties with the police department have included being an Arson Investigator, and Field Training Officer.
Sergeant Westbrook’s new assignment is effective March 31, 2008.

ARREST MADE IN FIGHT INVESTIGATION

On Sunday March 23, 2008 at approximately 9:20 PM the Fulton Police Department responded to the 700 block of Erie St. for a report of numerous people fighting in the street. A police investigation found that three individuals unlawfully entered the residence at 710 Erie St. with one of them armed with a baseball bat. A fight ensued within the residence which spilled into the street. One person was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital with minor lacerations. Arrested in the incident were:

Michael A. Guernsey DOB: 5/06/1989 610 ½ Utica St. Fulton , NY 13069
Richard L. Guernsey   DOB: 11/21/1961 LKA 610 Utica St. Fulton , NY 13069                Murray D. Abrams DOB: 1/07/1981 65 Beach Rd. Altmar , NY 13302

All three were charged with: Burglary 2^nd a C Felony, Criminal Mischief 4^th an A Misdemeanor, Endangering the Welfare of a Child an A Misdemeanor and Attempted Assault 3^rd a B Misdemeanor.

Anyone with any further information is asked to contact the Fulton Police Department at 598-2008 or 598-2007. Information can also be left via the TIPS line at 593-TIPS.

OPERATION SAFE STOP
Fulton City Police Department, Traffic Sgt. Joseph Pappalardo

Police will be keeping an eye on traffic around school buses in Operation Safe Stop. April 02, 2008 has been designated Operation Safe Stop throughout New York State. What is Operation Safe Stop? Operation Safe Stop seeks to promote school bus safety through education and enforcement efforts. Operation Safe Stop is a cooperative project supported by the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, the New York State Education Department, the New York Association for Pupil Transportation, the New York State School Bus Contractors Association, the student transportation industry, and state, county, city and local law enforcement agencies.

Did you know an estimated 50,000 motor vehicles illegally pass New York State school buses every day. Between 2002 and 2004, there were 69 students injured and one killed by motorists in New York State passing stopped school buses.

The law says it is illegal - and very dangerous - to pass a stopped school bus when the red lights located on top of the bus are flashing. You must stop whether you are approaching the school bus from the front or overtaking it from the rear. You must always stop for flashing red lights, even on divided highways and on school grounds. The first time an operator is convicted for illegally passing a school bus the fine can range from $250.00 to $400.00, and 5 points on your license and/or possibly 30 days in jail. Worse yet, the memory of hitting or killing a child may be one you carry for the rest of your life!

It is important to remember: Yellow lights mean the bus is going to stop. Slow down! Red lights mean students are getting on or off the bus. STOP! STOP! STOP! The goal of Operation Safe Stop is to proactively educate motorists about the dangers of passing stopped school buses.

FULTON POLICE ANNOUNCE PROMOTION TO LIEUTENANT

FULTON, NY - February 18, 2008 - At a special meeting of the City of Fulton Fire and Police Commission on February 7, Timothy A. Dievendorf was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Dievendorf joined the Fulton Police Department in 1996 and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2005. Dievendorf is a former Police Officer of the year in 2004. Dievendorf’s duties with the police department have included being an Accident Investigation Technician, Department General Topics instructor and Field Training Officer.

Lt. Dievendorf’s new assignment is effective February 18, 2008.

ARREST MADE IN ROBBERY INVESTIGATION

After a thorough investigation Fulton Police announce that they have made an arrest in the February 13th robbery of the Movie Lovers video store located at 113 Schuyler Street in the City of Fulton. Michael J. Lourcey, 21 years of age of Fulton, was arrested on February 15th for the following charges;

Robbery in the Second Degree (Class C Felony)
Grand Larceny Fourth (Class E Felony)
Menacing Second (Class A Misdemeanor)
Criminal Possession of a Weapon Fourth (Class A Misdemeanor)

The gun used during the robbery was recovered and found to be a BB gun. Lourcey was arraigned at the Fulton City Court, bail was set at $100,000 cash or $100,000 bail bond.

The investigation continues and anyone with information regarding the robbery is urged to call the Fulton Police Department at 315-598-2007 or the Fulton Police Department anonymous TIPS line at 593-TIPS or 593-8477.

FULTON POLICE INVESTIGATE ROBBERY

On Wednesday Feb. 13th at about 9:07 PM the Fulton Police Department responded to Movie Lover’s Video at 113 Schuyler St. for a reported panic alarm. While units were responding, 911 advised that the clerk was reportedly robbed at gunpoint. The suspect was described as a white male approximately 18 to 25 years of age, 150 – 175 lbs with brown crew cut hair and a very thin goatee. Suspect was wearing a black denim coat over a brown hoodie, green T-shirt, and blue jeans. After displaying what was described as a black handgun the suspect demanded money and then fled the scene on foot with an unknown amount of currency. Investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fulton Police Department at 598-2008 or 598-2007. Information can also be left via the TIPS line at 593-TIPS.

NEW POLICE ADMINISTRATORS INDUCTED AT SPECIAL CEREMONY

FEBRUARY 14, 2008 - At a special promotion ceremony today, Deputy Chief Orlo A. Green, III took the Oath of Office as Fulton’s next Chief of Police. Chief Green takes charge of the department on February 16, 2008, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Chief Mark Spawn. Chief Green began his career with the Fulton Police Department in 1994. He served in the Patrol Division as a Patrol Officer from 1994-2002, and as Sergeant from 2002-2005. Green was assigned to the Traffic and Training Division in 2005 where he was in charge of various traffic safety initiatives, grants, traffic research, police training and other administrative duties. In 2006, he was promoted to the position of Deputy Chief where he has overseen the various divisions of the police department including Criminal Investigations, Traffic, Training and Patrol. Green is a Police Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Crime Scene Technician, and Emergency Vehicle Operation Instructor. He has been the recipient of several awards from the City of Fulton including Honorable Service Awards, Unit Citation, Mayor’s Commendation and Triumphant Award. He is a member of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, Central New York Association of Chiefs of Police, Oswego County Traffic Safety Committee, and liaison to the Child Advocacy Center of Oswego County. Green also serves as a coach to the Fulton Knee High Basketball and Fulton Little Leagues and regularly participates in the Fulton Men’s League and Fulton Recreation Softball Leagues. Chief Green resides in Fulton with his wife, Amy and their children, Cody and Cole.

Thomas V. Abelgore was also promoted at the ceremony. Abelgore takes over the position of Deputy Chief on February 16, 2008. Deputy Chief Abelgore began his career with the Fulton Police Department in 1995 working in the Patrol Division. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in June 2003. Abelgore was assigned to the Traffic and Training Division in January 2004 and served in that office for a year and a half when he promoted to Lieutenant. At that time, Abelgore was assigned to the Patrol Division where he was in charge of one of the department’s platoons. He is a Field Training Officer, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Police Instructor, and Crime Scene Technician. Abelgore is a graduate of Onondaga Community College where he graduated cum laude with a degree in Criminal Justice. In 1997, Abelgore was selected as the Police Officer of the Year and has also received several commendations including several Mayor’s Commendations, Triumphant Award, Honorable Service Award and Unit Citation. In 2005, Abelgore was cited by the Manlius PBA with a Unit Citation for his role in a high speed pursuit and apprehension of a robbery suspect. Deputy Chief Abelgore’s interests include basketball, softball and coaching youth sports. He resides in Fulton with his wife Brenda and their children, Nicholas, Alexia and Ethan.

FULTON POLICE BEGIN RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN

The Fulton Police Department initiated a recruitment campaign this week, searching for candidates for their upcoming entrance exam in May. The exam is open to residents of Oswego, Cayuga, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Lewis and Jefferson Counties. Candidates who successfully pass the written examination will be subject to physical agility testing, psychological screening, a comprehensive background investigation and a panel interview.

The starting salary for a police officer in Fulton is $34,158, rising to $39,623 after one year of service (figures based on 2007 contract). The City of Fulton offers a 20 year retirement program, along with comprehensive medical, dental and death insurance benefits.

The department's training programs stress professional development. The Fulton Police Department is accredited by the New York State Division of Criminal Justices Services. Officers have professional affiliations with various task forces, planning and organizational groups, and boards. Fulton Police regularly provide a variety of community relations services. The Department also offers opportunities for specialized duties and promotions.

The deadline for applications is April 9, 2008. The examination will be held on May 10, 2008. Anyone with questions about the examination should call the Civil Service office at 593-2222. Application packets can be obtained at the Civil Service office on the second floor of the Municipal Building in Fulton.

STATE OF EMERGENCY TO BE LIFTED AT NOON ON JAN. 25

FULTON, NY - JANUARY 25, 2008 - Mayor Ronald Woodward will rescind the STATE OF EMERGENCY for the city of Fulton effective at 12:00 Noon today. The Mayor said, "Over the past few days we have received resources and equipment that are enabling us to get back to business." Among those resources have been offers and loans of equipment from various municipalities, Oswego County and New York State. DPW Commissioner Dan O’Brien said that garbage and recyclable pickup will resume next week. O’Brien said, "We have access to only one of our own garbage packers. But we are going to resume a normal pickup schedule next week using equipment from other towns and villages."

The City of Fulton continues to assess the losses and damage to city equipment from the devastating building collapse at the DPW garage on Monday, January 21. It was at about 5:20 AM that morning when the building collapsed. Four DPW employees were inside the building at the snow and escaped without injury. Most of Fulton’s snowplows were on the road at the time of the collapse, but several other pieces of equipment remain inside the building.

Fulton Police remind residents of the regular overnight parking prohibition. Chief Mark Spawn said, "Police will be enforcing the night time parking ban so that crews can continue snow removal." Vehicles may not be parked on city streets and municipal parking lots from 1:30 AM to 5:30 AM."

CHIEF SPAWN
ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

FULTON, NEW YORK - JANUARY 22, 2007 - Fulton Police Chief Mark A. Spawn has announced that he will retire from the Fulton Police Department next month. Spawn joined the Fulton PD in 1983. From that time he worked for five years in the uniform Patrol Division. In 1988, Spawn was assigned as an Investigator in the Criminal Investigations Division until being promoted to Deputy Chief of Police in 1996. In 1997, Spawn became the youngest Chief of Police in Fulton’s history.

Spawn has served on a number of committees including the Child Advocacy Center of Oswego County, Child Fatality Review Team, and most recently as President of the Central New York Association of Chiefs of Police. Spawn brought the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics to Oswego County and coordinated local events for several years.

Spawn worked on a number of high profile cases during his career. Among them, the Norma Jean Maher homicide of New Years’ Day in 1987 in which Jerry "Buzz" Maher was arrested; the February 11, 1988 homicide of Charles Pitsley by Marvin Pitsley and Wilfred Gleason; the Donald Havens homicide on New Year’s Day in 1993 in which Elizabeth Wirth was subsequently convicted of manslaughter; and the Diana Cooper homicide of May 24, 2000 in which Matthew Maxson was apprehended on May 26, 2000. In 1996, Spawn was a member of the Bank Robbery Task Force which investigated several bank robberies in Central New York committed by the Closing Time Bandit. The Task Force consisted of members of the FBI, State Police and local law enforcement agencies where the robberies had occurred. The April 17, 1996 bank robbery at Fleet Bank in Fulton was one of the more violent robberies committed by the Closing Time Bandit, later identified as Ronald Petersen of Liverpool, New York. Petersen was aided by his wife Mary Galvin and his brother, Douglas Petersen, during some of the robberies. During the Fulton bank robbery, Petersen, wearing a Ronald Reagan mask, detonated a military smoke bomb inside the bank and shot at a witness in the parking lot as he escaped. The Bank Robbery Task Force tracked Petersen to the Rochester area where it was evident that he was planning another bank robbery. The FBI SWAT team attempted to arrest Petersen who drove at agents. Petersen was killed by police gunfire. His wife was taken into custody a few blocks away by FPD Sgt. Russ Johnson. A search of Petersen’s Liverpool home resulted in the discovery of a large cache of weapons, explosives, surveillance and coutersurveillance information. The Task Force was recognized by FBI Director Louis Freeh with a commendation.

Chief Spawn is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He has been the recipient of various awards and recognition including Ten Outstanding New Yorkers (1997), The DeWitt Clinton Masonic Award for Community Service (1999), and the Distinguished Service Award by the Fulton Jaycees (1997).

Spawn was honored in 2000 in Washington, DC at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial as an Officer of the Month. He was nominated by James and Christine Roth of Fulton. Christine’s son, Rick Sowa, a graduate of G. Ray Bodley High School, Fulton, went on to become an Atlanta, Georgia police officer. Sowa was killed in the line of duty on October 12, 1997.

Chief Spawn will be heading to Albany for a new job as the Director of Research, Development and Training for the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police. "I am excited about this new opportunity. It will allow me to bring my experience in the development of policy and best practices to other agencies statewide. I am honored that such a prestigious organization as the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police (NYSACOP) have taken notice of my work and want me as part of their team."

The President of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, H. Lloyd Perkins (Skaneateles PD) commented, "I have know Chief Spawn for most of his career and have always had the highest respect for him. He is going to be a significant addition to the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police. Fulton's loss is a tremendous gain for every Chief in New York State through the work he will be doing as Director of Research, Development and Training. I have heard several Chiefs say that the next Chief in Fulton is going to have a hard time filling Chief Spawn’s shoes."

"I am confident that Chief Spawn will bring his unique, motivated and exceptional leadership style to this new position", said Greg Harlin, Coordinator for the Mid-Atlantic and Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network for Upstate New York and Canada. Harlin added, "The entire New York State Association of Chiefs of Police membership will now benefit and glean the rewards of Chief Spawn’s successful, energetic and selfless service that has served the citizens of Fulton and the Central New York law enforcement community so well."

"Being a police officer in Fulton has been a most rewarding career for me. I truly enjoy working with people, helping them with their problems, and protecting this fine community", Spawn said.

Dryden Police Chief Margaret Ryan commented, "I am sad to see him leave his position locally, but I am excited about his next career move. From colleagues among the Chief’s Association to law enforcement as a whole, Mark is a well respected Chief of Police. Given a task, Mark not only completes it, but does so in a manner above and beyond. He has definitely left his mark, not only in Fulton, but within Central New York. I wish him well as he begins his new endeavor."

"After working with Mark for the last few years, I have found him to be the consummate professional", said Auburn Police Chief Gary Giannotta. "He will be a great asset to the State Chiefs Association, and in turn assist individual Chiefs in their efforts to enhance law enforcement professionalism."

Mayor Woodward said, "The City of Fulton has been very privileged to have had such a professional in the Police Department for all these years. Mark has always been there for the Mayor's Office and the residents of the city in any type of emergency and his presence is always comforting to the public." Mayor Woodward had hoped that Mark would become the first Public Safety Director in the City of Fulton and was slated as one of the Mayor's top priorities after January 1st. The Mayor added, "It has been a pleasure working with Mark over the years. His community spirit as well as his professionalism will missed by many. On behalf of the Common Council and the residents of Fulton, we wish the Chief many years of health, happiness and continued success. We are all very proud of him."

From the Child Advocacy Center of Oswego County, Executive Director Olivia VanSanford said, "Chief Spawn has been instrumental in developing programs in this county that protect children. Beginning with the Oswego County Child Abuse Task Force, to being one of the founding members of the Oswego County Child Fatality Review Team, to serving on the Child Advocacy Center Board of Directors, Mark has played a vital role in ensuring that this county has been on the cutting edge when it comes to the issue of child abuse. In working with Mark, one cannot help but notice the passion with which he does his job as well as the sincerity and thoughtfulness he exhibits that motivates others to care about what he cares about. Mark’s dedication and leadership will be greatly missed."

Spawn conducted a research project at the New York State Academy of Fire Science in 1990 on the effect of fire on fingerprints. Spawn is a State Fire Instructor who has instructed courses and assisted in curriculum development at the Academy. His research project has been published in a number of technical journals in the United States and abroad. His article on recruitment of police personnel has also been published in the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin.

Last year, Spawn penned a head injury prevention program and recruited a number of community partners which resulted in the distribution of hundreds of helmets in the greater Fulton area. That program was highlighted at the New York State Highway Safety Conference in Lake Placid last fall.

As Spawn became Chief in January 1997, the State’s Sex Offender Registration Act had just been enacted. Chief Spawn developed a policy to ensure compliance by sex offenders, monitoring of sex offender responsibilities, enforcement protocols and community notification. Spawn’s policy caught the eye of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services in Albany and was used as a model policy at training conferences around the state. Over the past eleven years, the Fulton PD program has been sought out by other agencies looking to develop a sex offender policy.

During Spawn’s first year as Chief he set an aggressive goal for the police department to attain Accreditation by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. After a full year of policy research and writing, the department was ready. In June 1998, a team of assessors evaluated the Fulton Police Department which was accredited for the first time. The Department is currently working toward its second reassessment.

Deputy Chief Orlo Green said, "Chief Spawn has truly been an asset to the Fulton City Police Department, and to the community he has served. His leadership and the innovative programs have repeatedly brought recognition to Fulton PD and within the law enforcement community." The Deputy Chief added, "I know that Mark will bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to his new position. I wish him luck in this new endeavor and know that he will be sorely missed by all of us here at the Fulton Police Department."

During Chief Spawn’s tenure, he developed an Aggressive Driving Enforcement program which focuses enforcement efforts on violations that are the most frequent causes of collisions. That program was showcased at a 2003 New York State Highway Traffic Conference. Spawn developed Fulton’s first grant from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee in 2001 which has resulted in more than $13,000 in funds to support traffic enforcement efforts.

As for the programs that Spawn has developed, he is quick to credit the officers and staff of his department. "It’s one thing to have ideas - but it’s another thing to make them work. I credit the men and the women of the Fulton Police Department for taking these programs and putting them into practice."

Fulton PBA President Steve Lunn said, "The Fulton PBA congratulates Chief Spawn on his retirement. He has devoted twenty four years to the Fulton Police Department making us one of the most professional and reputable departments in Central New York." President Lunn continued, "The PBA had an excellent relationship with Chief Spawn and we will miss his ability to resolve our concerns in a fair and professional manner."

A retirement dinner for Chief Spawn is scheduled for Friday, February 15, 2008 at 6:00 PM at the Oasis at Thunder Island, Wilcox Road, Fulton. Tickets are $15 each and are available at the Fulton Police Department, Attn. Steve Lunn/PBA President, 141 South First Street, Fulton, NY 13069.

NEW CHIEF AND DEPUTY CHIEF
TO TAKE OFFICE IN FEBRUARY

PRESS RELEASE - JANUARY 22, 2008 - Deputy Chief Orlo A. Green, III will be Fulton’s next Chief of Police on February 16, 2008. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Chief Mark Spawn on February 15. Deputy Chief Green began his career with the Fulton Police Department in 1994. He served in the Patrol Division as a Patrol Officer from 1994-2002, and as Sergeant from 2002-2005. Green was assigned to the Traffic and Training Division in 2005 where he was in charge of various traffic safety initiatives, grants, traffic research, police training and other administrative duties. In 2006, he was promoted to the position of Deputy Chief where he has overseen the various divisions of the police department including Criminal Investigations, Traffic, Training and Patrol. Deputy Chief Green is a Police Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Crime Scene Technician, and Emergency Vehicle Operation Instructor. He has been the recipient of several awards from the City of Fulton including Honorable Service Awards, Unit Citation, Mayor’s Commendation and Triumphant Award. Green is a member of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, Central New York Association of Chiefs of Police, Oswego County Traffic Safety Committee, and liaison to the Child Advocacy Center of Oswego County. He serves as a coach to the Fulton Knee High Basketball and Fulton Little Leagues and regularly participates in the Fulton Men’s League and Fulton Recreation Softball Leagues. Deputy Chief Green resides in Fulton with his wife Amy and their children Cody and Cole.

Lt. Thomas V. Abelgore will be promoted the position of Deputy Chief on February 16, 2008. Abelgore takes over the office of Deputy Chief Green who will become Chief of Police the same day. Lt. Abelgore began his career with Fulton Police in 1995 working in the Patrol Division. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in June 2003. Abelgore was assigned to the Traffic and Training Division in January 2004 and served in that office for a year and a half when he promoted to Lieutenant. At that time, Lt. Abelgore was assigned to the Patrol Division where he was in charge of one of the department’s platoons. He is a Field Training Officer, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Police Instructor, and Crime Scene Technician. Abelgore is a graduate of Onondaga Community College where he graduated cum laude with a degree in Criminal Justice. In 1997, Abelgore was selected as the Police Officer of the Year. He has also received several commendations including several Mayor’s Commendations, Triumphant Award, Honorable Service Award and Unit Citation. In 2005, Abelgore was cited by the Manlius PBA with a Unit Citation for his role in a high speed pursuit and apprehension of a robbery suspect. Lt. Abelgore’s interests include basketball, softball and coaching youth sports. He resides in Fulton with his wife Brenda and their children, Nicholas, Alexia and Ethan.

STATE OF EMERGENCY - UPDATE
QUESTIONS ABOUT PARKING & GARBAGE

FULTON, NEW YORK - JAN. 22, 2008 - The STATE OF EMERGENCY remains in effect in the City of Fulton and is expected to remain throughout the week. Officials remind residents that the STATE OF EMERGENCY was declared primarily due to the combination of snow accumulations and the catastrophic loss of a major city structure. The Fulton DPW garage collapsed at about 5:20 AM on January 21. At the time of the collapse, four employees were inside. All escaped without injury. However, several pieces of equipment remain within the structure including snow removal, garbage truck, recyclable collection trucks and other equipment. The city’s maintenance shop was also located within the same structure.

Residents have inquired about parking regulations on city streets and parking lots. Police continue to urge caution as snow banks have affected visibility at intersections. The only prohibition that is in place at this time is the usual nighttime parking restriction which prohibits parking from 1:30 AM to 5:30 AM.

Reminder: There is no garbage or recylcables pickup this week. The City will announce a plan for garbage and recylcables collection for the following week. Updates will follow as circumstances change.

STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION FOLLOWS COLLAPSE OF DPW GARAGE

FULTON, NEW YORK - JANUARY 21, 2008 - Mayor Ronald Woodward has declared a STATE OF EMERGENCY for the city of Fulton effective at 9:15 AM today. The STATE OF EMERGENCY was declared in response to a combination of a severe snow storm, overwhelming snowfall accumulations and particularly by the collapse of the Department of Public Works (DPW) building at about 5:20 AM today. The DPW facility was occupied by four DPW personnel at the time of the collapse. All four escaped without injury. Forecasts indicate that there may be additional snowfall in the region today, bringing additional concern to the current situation.

Several pieces of equipment and machinery remain inside the building including dump trucks, garbage packers, large snow blowers, salt trucks and other machinery. Fulton officials met this morning with Oswego County Emergency Management Office Director Pat Egan and County Highway Superintendent Kurt Ospelt to discuss mutual aid and other concerns.

Mayor Ronald Woodward said, "The collapse of the DPW building represents a major loss to our ability to respond to the snowstorm and other DPW-related duties. I am confident that we will be able to address the problems caused by the loss of equipment, but it will likely take some time. We are working with our partners in other areas of government and we are grateful for the offers of assistance we have already received."

DPW Commissioner Dan O’Brien announced that garbage and recyclables pickup throughout the city will be suspended for the week. Residents should not place garbage or recyclables to the curb this week. It is anticipated that pickup of those items will resume next week. Watch for additional news releases concerning garbage/recyclables pickup.

With the STATE OF EMERGENCY declaration, city officials urge caution for motorist travel. Please note that there are NO TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS at this time. The STATE OF EMERGENCY is based in large part due to the catastrophic loss of city infrastructure and equipment.

Please do not call government offices. The public will be kept informed through the broadcast and print media of the cancellation or continuation of the STATE OF EMERGENCY.

SCHOOL BUS ACCIDENT CLAIMS LIFE OF DRIVER

Fulton, NY - January 17, 2008 - Fulton Police responded to the Fulton Junior High School at 129 Curtis Street in Fulton at about 2:00 PM yesterday to investigate an incident involving a school bus. Based upon the investigation, it appears that a bus driver fell from a moving school bus and sustained a head injury. Just prior to 2:00 PM, four bus drivers were conversing aboard a Golden Sun Bus at the junior high. The driver of that school bus, Donald Mason, drove around the circular drive as Brenda Phillips, age 51 of 5350 State Rt. 104, Oswego, New York apparently fell while standing in the stairwell next to the bus doors. Mrs. Phillips fell through the doors onto the pavement. Medical assistance was rendered to her at the scene as EMS crews were summoned. Mrs. Phillips was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital in Fulton and subsequently to University/Upstate Hospital in Syracuse where she died at about 5:20 PM last evening. Fulton Police collision technicians investigated the accident scene yesterday and that investigation is continuing.

Mrs. Phillips was a school bus driver for several years. For the past six years she has been employed by Golden Sun Bus Service.

ARRESTS MADE IN CONSPIRACY CASE

Kenneth H. Myers Sr. age 70 and his son, Michael L. Myers age 40 were arrested on Friday, January 11, 2008 in connection to an attempted cover-up of motor vehicle accident that occurred in the Town of Palermo on December 31, 2007.

It is alleged that the two conspired, solicited and persuaded others to submit a false written statement to the New York State Police on January 4, 2008. The person solicited was offered and accepted a sum of money for their participation in the cover-up. Michael L. Myers also provided a false statement to the New York State Police in regards to the same motor vehicle accident that occurred on December 31, 2007.

Michael L. Myers is also accused of intentionally disobeying a duly served order of protection issued by Oswego City Court Judge Honorable James M. Metcalf on the 11^th of November 2007. Michael Myers allegedly disobeyed this court order by being in the presence of the protected person, Michelle Coant, on January 1, 2008.

The following are a list of charges:

Michael L. Myers of 308 S. Twelfth Street Fulton was charged with Obstructing Governmental Administration 2^nd degree, Conspiracy 5^th Degree, Punishable False Written Statement, Offering a False Instrument for Filing 1^st Degree, Criminal Contempt 2^nd Degree.

Kenneth H. Myers Sr. of 1253 Fay Street , Fulton was charged with Obstructing Governmental Administration 2^nd degree, Conspiracy 5^th Degree and Criminal Solicitation in the Fourth Degree.

The two are currently being held at the City of Fulton Police Department and are scheduled for arraignment Saturday morning, January 12, 2008.

UPDATE 01/12/08 11:13 AM:

Kenneth H. Myers and Michael Myers, were arraigned this morning at about 7:15 AM by City Court Judge Jerome Mirabito this morning (Sat., January 12).

Michael Myers was remanded to Oswego County Jail without bail. Kenneth Myers was released on his recognizance. Kenneth Myers has been ordered to return to City Court on February 6, 2008 at 9:30 AM. Michael Myers is scheduled to return to City Court on January 16, 2008 at 9:30 AM.

Concerning requests that have been made for arrest/booing photographs, under our policy, we are unable to release photographs in this case.

The following is a news release provided by AAA:

AAA HONORS CITY OF FULTON FOR TRAFFIC SAFETY EFFORTS

FULTON , NY , JANUARY 10, 2008 --AAA Western and Central New York has recognized the City of Fulton Police Department for its success in AAA’s Community Traffic Safety Program. AAA’s Gold Award was presented today to Police Chief Mark Spawn.

AAA’s Community Traffic Safety Program is an awards and recognition program for communities of all sizes nationwide that identify and address their local traffic safety issues. The program considers basic crash statistics, presence of a traffic safety leadership group, programs, projects, and their effectiveness. Emphasis is placed on the “4 E’s” of Enforcement, Education, Engineering and Emergency Response.

The awards progress from Honorable Mention to Bronze, Silver, Gold, and to the highest level, Platinum. Fulton received a Gold Award, given to communities that implement programs and projects that demonstrate superior effort at addressing local traffic safety issues. Fulton is a five-time Gold Award recipient and previously received a Platinum Award in 2003.

“The purpose of AAA’s Community Traffic Safety Program is to recognize the leadership and reward the efforts of communities that strive to advance the cause of traffic safety,” said Tom Chestnut, President/CEO, AAA Western and Central New York . “We’re delighted to honor the City of Fulton for their continued success.”

Fulton demonstrated success with programs addressing drunk and impaired driving, aggressive and unsafe driving behaviors, speeding, occupant protection, child passenger, pedestrian, bicycle, school bus, and work zone safety.

In NY State, top Platinum Honors were awarded to only four communities: Camillus, Ellenville, Garden City and White Plains . Platinum award winners demonstrated a clear trend of improvement over five years and/or provided data that is substantially better than the statewide data for communities of similar size.

As Upstate New York’s largest motoring and travel organization, AAA provides its 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial, and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited