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 2nd a C
Felony, Criminal Mischief 4th an A Misdemeanor, Endangering the
Welfare of a Child an A Misdemeanor and Attempted Assault 3rd 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 11th
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 2nd
degree, Conspiracy 5th Degree, Punishable False Written Statement,
Offering a False Instrument for Filing 1st Degree, Criminal
Contempt 2nd Degree.
Kenneth H. Myers Sr. of
1253 Fay Street
,
Fulton
was charged
with Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd degree, Conspiracy
5th 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 at www.AAA.com
Apparent Attempted Robbery
Fulton
,
NY
, 11/27/2007 8:04 PM
— At 6:18 PM Fulton
Police responded to
265 West First Street South
, the parking lot of the Fulton Mills Apartment Building, for a report of a
possible attempted robbery. During
the investigation it was found that a 68 year old female had just parked her
vehicle in the parking lot at the end of
Riverside Avenue
. Prior to exiting her vehicle an
unknown male reached across the driver and leaned into the vehicle in an
apparent attempt to grab into the passenger seat area.
A resident witnessed the incident and when she yelled at the subject he
then ran north on
Riverside Avenue
in the direction of the intersection of
Leitch Street
and
West First Street South
(SR 48). Nothing was taken and the
victim did not suffer any injuries.
The subject was described
as being 6’ tall with a medium build wearing dark pants, dark long sleeve
shirt and either a dark cap or hood. Anyone
with information is asked to contact the Fulton Police Department at 598-2007.
Sent: Wednesday, November 21, 2007 2:27 PM
