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Beloved Retired Orangetown PD Officer Robert “Smitty” Smith Passes Away

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It is with deep sadness we share the passing of Retired Orangetown Police Department Officer Robert “Smitty” G Smith

Robert G. Smith Jr. of Pearl River, NY passed away on Monday, December 26, 2022. He was 67. Smitty worked as a police officer for 32 years. He began his career in 1983 working for the NYPD in the 47th Precinct. In September 1984 he transferred to the Orangetown Police Department where he worked until his retirement in 2015.

Robert was born October 10, 1955 in Suffern, NY to Robert G. and Leila Smith. He was a graduate of Pearl River High School in 1973.

Locally, he was a member of the Pearl River Hook & Ladder Co#1.

Smitty loved being a police officer and working in the community he grew up in. He was a huge sports fan, a life time fan of the NY Giants and NY Yankees. He also enjoyed boating on the Hudson River and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Maureen; mother, Leila; sisters, Cindy Balzano (Louis), Sandra Drayton (Kevin) and brother, Thomas. He is also survived by his nephew, Matthew Balzano and nieces, Frannie and Kate Drayton. He is predeceased by his father, Robert G. Smith Sr.

A Funeral service will be held 10:30 AM, Friday at the United Methodist Church, Pearl River. Burial will follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY. Visiting is Thursday from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at Wyman-Fisher Funeral Home Inc.

Smitty as he was affectionately called had a stellar reputation within law enforcement and was beloved by the community he served. We ask you keep his family in your prayers during this difficult time.

Police/Fire/EMS

Haverstraw Police Officer Struck by Vehicle During Traffic Stop, Suspects Arrested

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A police officer was injured Thursday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle during a traffic stop in the Village of Haverstraw, according to the Town of Haverstraw Police Department.

At approximately 1:10 p.m., officers conducted a vehicle stop for a traffic infraction on Riverfront Drive. While attempting to engage with the driver, the operator suddenly accelerated, striking one of the officers before fleeing the scene.

Authorities immediately broadcast a description of the vehicle along with its license plate information over police radio.

A responding officer later located the vehicle traveling on West Street. Police conducted a stop, and the occupants were taken into custody without further incident.

The injured officer was transported to a local hospital and is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

“This incident is one of many examples of the dangers our officers face every day while performing their duties,” said John Gould Jr.. “I am grateful that our officer’s injuries are not life-threatening and proud of the swift and professional response by our personnel in quickly locating the vehicle and safely taking the individuals into custody. We will not tolerate actions that put our officers or community members at risk.”

Police said additional information will be released as the investigation continues.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Officer Earns State Recognition for DWI Enforcement Efforts

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Members of the Ramapo Police Department attended the 2026 Annual New York State Law Enforcement Recognition Event, where agencies and individuals were honored for their efforts to combat impaired driving.

The event, presented by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) New York, STOP-DWI New York, and the New York Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, recognizes law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and agencies for their work in enforcing laws and developing programs aimed at reducing drunk and drug-impaired driving.

During the ceremony, Ramapo Police Officer Erica Ascuasiati received the Recognition of Excellence Award for her outstanding efforts in impaired driving enforcement.

Department officials praised Officer Ascuasiati for her dedication and commitment to roadway safety, noting that her work plays a key role in protecting the community.

The department reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to enforcing laws related to impaired driving while continuing public education efforts to reduce dangerous behavior behind the wheel.

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