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Police/Fire/EMS

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

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2 years ago

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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.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Fallen NYPD Officer Michael J. Buczek Commemorated in Ceremony Attended by Law Enforcement and Community Leaders

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3 days ago

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May 10, 2025

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On October 18, 1988, NYPD Police Officer Michael Buczek of the 34 Pct. was shot and killed when he and his partner attempted to arrest two suspects on a drug charge in an apartment building at 580 West 161st Street in Washington Heights. One of the suspects shot Officer Buczek while attempting to run from the scene.
The three suspects fled to the Dominican Republic where one later died in police custody and a second was apprehended by the United States Marshals in 2000. The third suspect was apprehended in the Dominican Republic in May 2002. On June 19th, 2003, two of the suspects were sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.
Today, the NYC Police Benevolent Association, Rockland County PBA, Orangetown PBA, and the Rockland County Shields honored Officer Buczek with a plaque that was presented to the Buczek Family at their family owned Dunkin’ in Pearl River, NY. Law enforcement from across Rockland County, members from the NYPD, County Exec Ed Day, (Ret. NYPD), Sheriff Lou Falco, and Supervisors Jim Monaghan (Ret. NYPD) and Teresa Kenny attended the ceremony. The room was completely packed with people having to observe from the outside.
The common message was – we will never forget NYPD PO Michael J. Buczek.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Officer Stops Reckless Moped Rider, Faces Multiple Violations

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4 days ago

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May 9, 2025

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Frustrated by mopeds and e-bikes weaving through traffic like the rules don’t apply? You’re not alone.

This morning, a Ramapo officer observed a Honda ADV150 moped dangerously cutting off vehicles and weaving between lanes on Airmont Road near North DeBaun Avenue. The 25-year-old operator had no license plates and couldn’t provide proof of insurance. The vehicle was immediately towed, and multiple summonses were issued.

But tickets are just the beginning. True accountability happens in court. This case is now before the  Village of Airmont Justice Court.

We’re committed to making our roads safer—every day, for everyone. Drive responsibly, and know we’re out there doing our part to keep our community safe.

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