New City, NY — A husband and wife from Pomona have been charged with endangering the welfare of children following the police investigation that uncovered an unlicensed and hazardous daycare facility in Clarkstown.
On July 7, 2025, at around 9:00 AM, Clarkstown Police, in coordination with the Town’s Building Department, executed a search warrant at two properties located at 86 and 96 Maple Avenue in New City. The operation was part of a probe into a suspected illegal daycare, later identified as Camp Smiley.
Authorities found approximately 69 children and 20 adults on the premises.
A particularly alarming discovery was made in the basement of 96 Maple Avenue, where officials documented around 30 cribs, changing stations, and blankets in an unoccupied but prepared childcare space. The conditions raised immediate red flags regarding safety and regulatory compliance.
Following a secondary inspection the next day on July 8 by Rockland County Child Protective Services (RC CPS), the daycare was deemed unsafe and ordered to shut down immediately.
Aron Altman and Chany Altman – identified as owners or operators of the facility – which upstairs included a vape shop, an unauthorized UHaul rental facility, and more – both 35 and residents of Pomona, were each charged with endangering the welfare of a child—a Class A misdemeanor under New York State Penal Law. The charge applies to actions or omissions that place a child’s physical, mental, or moral welfare at risk.
The Altmans were issued appearance tickets and released pending a future court date. In addition to the criminal charges, the Town of Clarkstown has initiated code enforcement proceedings related to multiple violations at the properties. Those cases will be addressed in Clarkstown Justice Court.
“This kind of reckless disregard for children’s safety is unacceptable,” said Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann. “Thanks to the coordinated efforts of law enforcement and regulatory agencies, those responsible are being held accountable.”
Clarkstown Police Chief Jeff Wanamaker emphasized the department’s zero-tolerance stance on child endangerment: “Our officers treat any threat to the safety of children with the utmost seriousness. These charges reflect our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Both the criminal and municipal charges are pending. Authorities remind the public that a criminal complaint is an accusation and that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.