Police/Fire/EMS

Piermont Fire Department Dive Team Assists in Multiple Water Rescues During Storm

Published

9 months ago

July 15, 2025

Piermont, NY – Amid rising water levels and hazardous conditions during yesterday’s storm, the Piermont Fire Department Dive Team responded to six water rescue emergencies across Rockland County. The team also addressed a separate incident involving a tree burning on power lines, further highlighting the widespread impact of the severe weather.

A total of 17 members responded, including 9 trained divers. Due to the high call volume and need for rapid deployment, the Dive Team strategically split into two operational units:

Unit 13-Rescue was staffed with 4 divers, a chauffeur, and an officer
Unit 13-H.A.R.T. (High Angle Rescue Team) included 5 divers, a chauffeur, and an officer

Both teams remained on standby at the firehouse throughout the evening and continued operations until they were released by 13-1 Command shortly after 21:00 hours.

Piermont Fire officials commended the dedication and professionalism of all members involved.

“The coordinated response and readiness shown by our team tonight was outstanding,” a department spokesperson said. “These situations require specialized skill and quick decision-making, and our divers delivered.”

As storms and flooding events become increasingly frequent, the Dive Team remains a vital resource in Rockland County’s emergency response system.

Great work by all who stepped up to assist during this storm event.

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.