By Kim Anderson
Rockland DA Announces 14 Indictments From Fifth Grand Jury Term
NEW CITY, N.Y. — The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office announced that its fifth grand jury term of 2026 concluded on May 27, with 14 indictments handed up after proceedings that began May 1.
The cases include a range of felony charges, including driving while intoxicated, attempted arson, assault, robbery, criminal contempt, alleged weapons offenses and other serious accusations. District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II said the office remains focused on moving cases forward “in a speedy manner in accordance with the law.”
Officials emphasized that an indictment is an accusation, not a conviction. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
O&R Warns Residents to Prepare for Heavy Rain, Damaging Winds
Orange & Rockland Utilities advised residents to prepare for severe weather that could bring heavy rain, damaging winds and power outages across the region.
According to the morning report, the utility pre-staged crews ahead of the storm threat and urged customers to report outages directly. Residents were also reminded to stay away from downed wires and treat every fallen wire as live and dangerous.
The advisory comes as Rockland enters a stretch of unsettled early-summer weather, when fast-moving storms can affect tree limbs, utility lines and local roads. Residents should charge devices, secure outdoor objects and monitor local emergency updates.
Clarkstown Highlights New Cafe, Recreation Hours and Road Safety Projects
Clarkstown’s June newsletter featured several town updates, including the grand opening of the Congers Community Cafe at the refurbished Congers train station and expanded operating hours at the Street Community Center, which is now open seven days a week.
The newsletter also noted Veolia’s water main replacement work on West Nyack Road, a June 17 public hearing on proposed safety improvements along Routes 303 and 304, and upcoming community events including the Nanuet and New City street fairs.
Additional items included extended town clerk hours and the opening of the New York Pickleball Club, reflecting a busy early-summer calendar for Clarkstown residents.
Clarkstown to Dedicate Lawrence Rose Way in Honor of Vietnam Veteran
Clarkstown announced a June 6 ceremony dedicating Brook Lane and Lucille Boulevard as Lawrence Rose Way in memory of U.S. Army PFC Lawrence Rose, who was killed while serving in Vietnam.
Rose was a Purple Heart recipient, and town officials invited the public to attend the dedication and honor his service. The ceremony serves as both a local remembrance and a permanent marker of sacrifice for residents who pass through the neighborhood.
The dedication is part of Clarkstown’s broader effort to recognize veterans and preserve the stories of local service members for future generations.
Senator Bill Weber Opposes Redistricting Bill, Promotes Veterans Reception
State Senator Bill Weber’s latest newsletter highlighted his vote against legislation he said would weaken New York’s independent redistricting process.
Weber also noted recent Capitol visits from Miss America 2026 and Miss New York and invited constituents to an upcoming veterans appreciation reception. His newsletter also listed additional community events and district updates.
The redistricting issue remains politically sensitive statewide, with lawmakers and advocates continuing to debate how congressional and legislative lines should be drawn in future election cycles.
East Ramapo Board Member Raises Budget Transparency Concerns
East Ramapo Board of Education member Sabrina Charles-Pierre is raising concerns about district budget transparency, administrative turnover and state oversight.
In an interview reported by RocklandNews.com, Charles-Pierre questioned a $700,000 budget line labeled “high school support system,” saying she requested a breakdown but did not receive one. She argued that public funds should be explained clearly and used in ways that directly serve students.
Charles-Pierre also criticized frequent leadership changes in the district, saying turnover has undermined stability and left the district repeatedly “starting from scratch.” She also questioned whether state monitors have produced meaningful change for East Ramapo’s public school students.
Eduardo Hernandez Sentenced to 14 Years for Haverstraw Kidnapping
NEW CITY, N.Y. — Eduardo Hernandez, 49, of Garnerville, was sentenced to 14 years in state prison after being convicted of second-degree kidnapping in connection with an attack on a woman in Haverstraw.
According to the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, Hernandez attacked the victim outside a home in the Village of Haverstraw on Sept. 14, 2025. Prosecutors said he restrained her, grabbed her by the neck and held a screwdriver to her throat. The woman fought him off and called for help, while witnesses helped authorities identify the fleeing vehicle.
The DA’s Office described Hernandez as a previously convicted rapist and kidnapper.
8-Year-Old Girl Dies After Bicycle Crash in Pomona
An 8-year-old Rockland girl died after being struck by a vehicle while riding her bicycle in Pomona on June 2.
Police said the crash happened near Ravenna Drive and Tiffin Lane. Emergency responders treated the child at the scene before she was transported by ambulance to Nyack Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
News 12 reported that the child was struck by a 2025 GMC Hummer driven by a 34-year-old Ramapo resident. Police continue to investigate the crash. No criminal charges had been filed as of the report cited in the morning transcript.
BusPatrol FOIL Dispute Raises Conflict-of-Interest Questions
A legal dispute over Rockland County’s school bus stop-arm camera contract is drawing new scrutiny after Rockland County Business Journal reported that BusPatrol, the contractor behind the program, is paying lawyers representing the county in a Freedom of Information Law dispute.
The lawsuit seeks contract details related to the county’s stop-arm camera program. Critics argue the arrangement creates a conflict because the company whose contract is under review is funding the county’s legal defense.
The case is part of a broader debate over transparency, automated enforcement, public contracts and the role of private vendors in traffic safety programs.
Hochul Opens 2026 Regional Economic Development Funding Round
Governor Kathy Hochul has launched the 2026 Regional Economic Development Council initiative, opening the state’s Consolidated Funding Application process for municipalities, nonprofits, businesses and community partners.
The 2026 round includes the second year of the ACHIEVE competition, with $150 million available for high-impact regional projects. Additional funding from more than 20 state programs is also available through the CFA process, which remains open through July 31.
The program is designed to support projects aligned with regional priorities, including job creation, downtown revitalization, infrastructure, workforce development and economic growth.
Rockland Paramedic Services Earns AHA Mission: Lifeline EMS Bronze Award
Rockland Paramedic Services has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Bronze achievement award for its commitment to rapid, research-based care for serious heart attack and stroke patients.
The recognition highlights the role EMS providers play before a patient reaches the hospital. In many emergency cases, paramedics begin treatment long before arrival at an emergency department, helping improve outcomes for time-sensitive cardiac and stroke events.
The award was noted in a Rockland County Business Journal brief alongside the state’s 2026 economic development funding announcement.
Clarkstown Defends Denial in Religious Land-Use Lawsuit
Rabbi Nutil Horowitz has filed a federal lawsuit alleging that Clarkstown violated the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act by denying variances needed to enlarge his home for religious gatherings.
According to the morning report, the town contends the requested variances were significant and has suggested that Horowitz submit a scaled-down proposal.
The case centers on the balance between local zoning authority and federal protections for religious land use. RLUIPA cases often examine whether local land-use decisions impose a substantial burden on religious exercise and whether governments have applied zoning standards fairly.
DOT Plans Roundabout at Route 9W and Oak Tree Road in Palisades
The New York State Department of Transportation is planning a single-lane roundabout at Route 9W and Oak Tree Road in Palisades, with the project expected to cost approximately $5 million to $6 million.
Supporters say roundabouts can reduce severe crashes and improve traffic flow by slowing vehicles and reducing conflict points. However, some residents argue the project could disrupt the area and create new safety concerns during and after construction.
The debate reflects a familiar tension in transportation planning: improving long-term road safety while addressing local concerns about character, access, construction impacts and driver behavior.
NY-17 Democratic Primary Tension Draws Attention
The morning roundup noted continued Democratic infighting in the New York 17th Congressional District race, including discussion of a lengthy dossier targeting candidate Cait Conley.
The NY-17 race is expected to draw regional and national attention because the district has been one of the Hudson Valley’s most closely watched congressional battlegrounds. Internal party disputes can shape fundraising, endorsements and voter enthusiasm long before Election Day.
The report did not independently assess the claims in the dossier, and any allegations should be reviewed carefully before publication.
Nyack Events Roundup Features Arts, Sports and Community Fundraisers
Nyack News & Views promoted a slate of local happenings, including the Nyack Art Collective’s First Friday Art Walk, a watch party featuring former Knicks player Chris Childs, the African American Day Parade and the Rockland Symphony Orchestra’s Rising Stars Concert.
The weekly roundup also highlighted community cooking fundraisers and Adventure Together, a nonprofit initiative focused on shared outdoor and community experiences.
Together, the events reflect Nyack’s role as one of Rockland’s busiest arts and culture hubs, particularly during the summer season when street life, galleries, music and community gatherings draw residents and visitors downtown.
Rivertown Film and Local Arts Groups Announce June Events
Local arts calendars include several June performances and screenings, including a Rivertown Film screening of the documentary “Woody Guthrie and the Ghost of Tom Joad” on June 15.
The transcript also noted “The Christopher” on June 10 and other upcoming arts events across the county.
The June calendar offers residents a mix of film, music and live performance, continuing Rockland’s tradition of community-based arts programming. Eventgoers should confirm dates, times and ticket information directly with organizers before attending.
Nanuet Street Fair Draws Thousands to Main Street
The Nanuet Street Fair drew an estimated 8,000 visitors to Main Street on June 7, according to the Rockland Report recap cited in the morning news.
The event featured more than 170 vendors, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. It is considered one of the region’s most popular street fairs and serves as a major seasonal showcase for local businesses, restaurants, civic organizations and community groups.
Street fairs remain an important part of Rockland’s downtown economy, giving residents a chance to shop locally while bringing foot traffic to village and hamlet centers.
Major André Spy Trial Reenactment Set for June 14 in Tappan
A live reenactment titled “Fatal Ambition and the Trial of Major André” is scheduled for June 14 at the Old Tappan Reformed Church.
The event will revisit the 1780 British spy trial of Major John André, one of the most significant espionage episodes of the Revolutionary War. André was captured in connection with Benedict Arnold’s plot to surrender West Point to the British.
The reenactment begins at 10 a.m. and invites the public to learn more about Rockland’s role in Revolutionary War history.
Ramapo Police Free Bear Cub Trapped in Plastic Container
Ramapo police officers helped free a black bear cub after the animal got a plastic container stuck on its head near Hillburn.
According to the morning report, a resident and officers carefully removed the container before the cub scampered back into the woods.
Police used the incident to remind residents to dispose of containers and food waste properly. Wildlife can be injured or trapped by discarded plastic, especially when containers retain food odors. Proper trash handling is one of the simplest ways residents can protect animals and reduce human-wildlife encounters.
55th Annual Powwow Promoted in Stony Point Area
The Rockland Report promoted the 55th annual powwow in the Stony Point area, noting that the event honors the Canadian Chippewa community and should not be confused with local Lenape history.
Powwows are cultural gatherings that often include dancing, music, food, craft vendors and educational opportunities. The distinction noted in the report is important because Indigenous communities have distinct histories, traditions and identities.
Residents interested in attending should review event details from organizers and approach the gathering with respect for its cultural significance.
Assemblyman Aron Wieder Announces Hate Crimes Security Grant Availability
Assemblyman Aron Wieder announced that up to $70 million is available through New York’s Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grant program.
The program can provide grants of up to $250,000 to eligible nonprofit institutions seeking to improve security. Applications are due July 8, according to the morning report.
The funding is intended to help organizations vulnerable to hate crimes strengthen physical security, emergency preparedness and protective infrastructure. Houses of worship, schools, community centers and other nonprofit institutions may be eligible depending on state criteria.
Kennedy Dells Fitness Loop Reopens After Upgrades
Rockland County has reopened the upgraded fitness trail at Kennedy Dells County Park in New City.
The 1.5-mile loop now includes modernized exercise stations designed for stretching, strength training and movement-based activities. County officials encouraged residents to return to the trail and use the improved outdoor fitness equipment.
Kennedy Dells is one of Rockland’s well-used county parks, offering trails, recreation areas and open space. The fitness loop project reflects ongoing demand for accessible outdoor wellness options close to home.
Chaverim of Rockland Hosts Kids Safety Day
Chaverim of Rockland promoted a Kids Safety Day event on June 6 featuring bicycle registration, free snacks, police safety demonstrations, a petting zoo, a helicopter flyover and helmet giveaways.
The event was designed to give families practical safety information in a child-friendly setting. Bicycle registration and helmet giveaways are especially timely as more children ride bikes during the summer months.
Community safety events like this often bring together volunteers, police, emergency responders and families to reinforce basic prevention steps before accidents happen.
Rockland Establishes Traffic Camera Violations Bureau for School Bus Cases
Rockland County has established a Traffic Camera Violations Bureau to handle school bus stop-arm camera infractions.
County Executive Ed Day said the new administrative court, authorized by New York’s 2026 state budget, will speed enforcement and reduce strain on traditional courts. County officials have said the school bus safety program has helped reduce violations by 23%, with 90% of violators not reoffending.
The county’s stated goal is to improve compliance and protect children boarding and exiting school buses.
Gun Buyback Event Collects 19 Weapons in Rockland
A joint gun buyback event in Rockland collected 19 weapons, including 11 handguns, three assault-style rifles and five long guns.
Officials described the event as an investment in public safety and thanked residents who participated. Gun buyback programs are typically designed to remove unwanted firearms from homes and reduce the risk of accidental shootings, thefts and future violence.
The morning report did not specify whether the firearms were exchanged anonymously or whether gift cards or other incentives were offered, so those details should be confirmed before publication.
San Miguel Program Celebrates 17th Commencement in Newburgh
The San Miguel Program held its 17th commencement at St. Mary’s School in Newburgh, with 14 graduates receiving diplomas.
Student speaker Kanye Soriano highlighted leadership-building experiences, including visits to PepsiCo and participation in RedTail Flight Academy classes.
The program’s commencement marks a milestone for students and families while showcasing enrichment opportunities designed to broaden students’ academic, professional and personal horizons.
Proposed State Bill Would Target Firefighters Who Steal From Departments
A bipartisan bill before the New York State Legislature would require volunteer firefighters convicted of crimes against their own departments to forfeit Length of Service Award Program retirement benefits.
The proposal follows the case of former Mahopac fire department treasurer Keith Klein, who stole $5.7 million. Supporters say the bill would close a loophole by ensuring that firefighters who financially harm their departments cannot continue receiving taxpayer-supported or department-linked retirement benefits.
The bill reflects growing concern over accountability in volunteer emergency service organizations that depend heavily on public trust and donated funds.
Hendrick Hudson Track Athletes Qualify for State Meet
Hendrick Hudson High School track athletes delivered standout performances, with Chloe Howard winning the Class B race walk and qualifying for the state meet.
Harleigh Kokagran placed third in the hammer throw, while sophomore sprinter Sophia Sataji qualified in the 100-, 200- and 400-meter dashes and anchored the 4×100 relay. Coach Mark Shea described Sataji’s triple qualification as unusual.
Additional relay teams and athletes also qualified or set records, making it a strong postseason showing for the Hendrick Hudson program.
Peekskill Fire Claims Life of 15-Year-Old Boy
A June 4 fire at 115 High Street in Peekskill killed a 15-year-old boy.
Firefighters reportedly arrived within two minutes and rescued an unconscious occupant from the multifamily home. The teen was transported to a hospital but later died.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire. Fatal residential fires often prompt renewed public safety reminders about working smoke alarms, escape plans and clear exits, especially in multifamily buildings.
Peekskill Volunteer Ambulance Corps Chief Urges City to Restore Funding
Peekskill Volunteer Ambulance Corps Chief Stephen Sniffin wrote an op-ed warning that emergency call volume is rising as Peekskill grows, while city support for the ambulance corps has been cut.
According to the op-ed cited in the morning report, PCVAC responded to 3,932 emergencies in 2025 and spent $698,489 to staff EMTs. Sniffin said the city cut its annual contribution from $80,000 to zero and urged officials to restore funding.
He argued that reliable ambulance coverage depends on a combination of volunteers, donations and municipal support.
Stony Point American 250 Carnival Planned for July 8–11
Stony Point will host an American 250 carnival from July 8 through July 11 at Patriot Hills Drive to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The event is expected to feature rides, games, food, music and fireworks. The carnival will be part of a broader wave of local, state and national programming tied to the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Families planning to attend should watch for town updates on parking, schedules and fireworks timing.
Special thanks to our many supporters of Rockland News:
- Work Smart NY – Business Bootcamp
- Yaboo Fence Co.
- Dana Pest Control
- EZ Temp – Hackensack NJ
- Fiesta Acapulco
- Kobe Sushi – Jazz music lounge, music on Wednesdays and Saturday nights
- Breakpoint Bowling
- Holeshot Bagels – Haverstraw NY 9W
- Stony Point Massage
- UPS Store in West Haverstraw
- Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy | West Haverstraw NY
- Susan Bova, Coldwell Banker Realty
- 99Signs – For all your digital, billboard and portable sign needs
- FZ Perfection Auto Body Repair, Congers NY
- Clean Space Maint/Mgt Company
STAY TUNED THIS SUMMER FOR THE FOLLOWING INTERVIEWS BY OK ROCKLAND WITH MIKE & TOM:
- The Flowery, Haverstraw NY
- Noble Experiment Brewing Co.
- Round Table Brewing Co.
- Stony Point Brewing Co. / Bricktown Brewery
- Red Barn Cidery
- Van Houten’s
