Police/Fire/EMS

Suffern PD Announce Passing of Retired Police K9 Patriot

Published

3 years ago

August 15, 2023

SUFFERN, NY – The Suffern Police Department announced on social media that retired K9 Patriot has passed away.

It is with great sadness that the Suffern Police Department announces the passing of retired Police K9 Patriot. Patriot served with his handler & partner, PO Lou Venturini from 2011 to 2021. Patriot was certified as a Patrol K9, which included search & track, evidence recovery, apprehension, and narcotics detection.

During K9 Patriot’s time on patrol he was called upon to perform numerous searches, which yielded critical evidence including narcotics. He was also a fixture in Suffern Police Headquarters, where he frequently had meals with officers working patrol.
We would be remiss if we did not take a moment to recognize retired PO Venturini, who was crucial to the Suffern Police Department K9 Unit. PO Venturini initiated the program with Suffern’s first K9, K9 Aran. Upon Aran’s retirement, PO Venturini handled K9 Hero, then finally K9 Patriot. PO Venturini was an exceptional K9 handler, known throughout the area for his expertise and professionalism.
PO Venturini was instrumental in establishing the legacy of the Suffern Police Department K9 Program, which continues to this day with PO Joseph Ingui and K9 Thorn.

Rest easy, Patriot.

Police/Fire/EMS

Suffern Police Check ATMs for Skimmers, Report No Threats Detected

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Suffern Police Department Detective Bureau, in partnership with the Rockland County Intelligence Center, recently conducted a proactive sweep of 35 local businesses to check for ATM and credit card skimming devices. No devices were detected.

Skimming devices are illegal tools used by criminals to capture payment card information during legitimate transactions—often without the victim’s knowledge. This stolen data can then be used to commit fraud and identity theft.

Proactive enforcement efforts like this play a critical role in safeguarding the community by preventing financial crimes before they occur and protecting both residents and local businesses. The Suffern Police Department remains committed to staying ahead of emerging threats and ensuring the continued safety and security of the community.

Police/Fire/EMS

Clarkstown Appoints James S. Fay Jr. as New Police Chief, Effective April 2026

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

New City, NY — Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town Board have appointed Capt. James S. Fay, Jr. as the next Chief of Police for the Town of Clarkstown, effective April 24, 2026.

He will succeed Jeffrey Wanamaker, who is retiring after an impressive 39-year career with the Clarkstown Police Department, including serving as Chief since 2021. The Town plans to formally recognize Wanamaker’s service later this month.

About Incoming Chief James S. Fay, Jr.

Capt. Fay brings 32 years of experience within the Clarkstown Police Department, with a career spanning both operational and administrative leadership:

Specialized Units & Investigations
- Narcotics and organized crime investigations
- Investigator with the Rockland County Narcotics Task Force
- Established and led the Street Crime Unit
- Served in the Juvenile Aid Bureau, handling sensitive cases involving children and family court
Emergency & Tactical Experience
- Over a decade with the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT)
- First responder at the September 11 terrorist attacks
Leadership Roles
- Supervised patrol operations and field training
- Oversaw Special Operations (K-9, Traffic, Anti-Crime)
- Currently serves as Operations Captain, overseeing Patrol, Detectives, and Special Operations
Labor & Community Involvement
- Former executive leader in the Police Benevolent Association
- Founding member of the Greater Nanuet Chamber of Commerce Board
- Graduate of Leadership Rockland

Supervisor Hoehmann praised both leaders, expressing gratitude to Chief Wanamaker for his decades of service and confidence in Fay as a “true public servant” committed to the department and community.