Police/Fire/EMS

3-Alarm Fire at Merrit Park Apartments in Fishkill, NY Under Investigation

Published

5 years ago

April 20, 2021

Fishkill, New York – On April 18, 2021 at approximately 10:13 p.m., the Village of Fishkill Police Department, the New York State Police, Dutchess County Cause and Origin Team and the Fishkill Fire Department with mutual aid from surrounding districts responded to the Village at Merritt Park located off Merritt Blvd.

Seven rear back porches, which had paper products being stored for recycling, were set on fire at the 200 Building, 400 Building and 800 Building. Each building contains 24 apartments. All the families residing in the 200 Building were displaced due to extensive damage. Damage was minor to the 800 Building and damage appears mostly limited to the exterior on the 400 Building. All occupants were evacuated safely and no injuries were reported.

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Captain John Ryan, Acting Troop K Commander, stated “Thankfully no one was injured. What would motivate someone to do this is unclear at this time, but we will be working tirelessly to find out who did this and why. The community can expect to see a higher police presence in the area.” Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to please contact the New York State Police at (845) 677-7300.

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.