Police/Fire/EMS

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

Published

3 years ago

December 28, 2022

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

Clarkstown Police Department Promotes Kevin Quinn to Captain

Published

6 days ago

June 9, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Clarkstown Police Department is proud to announce the promotion of Lieutenant Kevin Quinn to the rank of Captain.

Captain Quinn brings 27 years of dedicated law enforcement experience to his new role and has been a valued member of the department throughout his distinguished career. Most recently, he served as the department’s Administrative Lieutenant, where he played an important role in supporting departmental operations and leadership.

Over the years, Captain Quinn has made significant contributions across multiple areas of the department. He has been actively involved in the Field Training Officer Program, served as Detective Sergeant in the Juvenile Aid Bureau, helped develop the department’s drone program, and successfully completed Session 281 of the FBI National Academy.

As Operations Captain, Quinn will oversee key operational functions while continuing to serve the Clarkstown community with professionalism, integrity, and dedication.

The Clarkstown Police Department congratulates Captain Quinn on this well-deserved promotion and wishes him continued success in his new leadership role.

Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Officers Help Free Bear Cub Trapped by Container in Hillburn

Published

1 week ago

June 6, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

This afternoon, officers from the Ramapo Police Department responded to Brook Street in Hillburn after receiving a report of a bear cub with a container stuck on its head.

Upon arrival, officers worked alongside the concerned caller to safely remove the container, freeing the cub from what could have become a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.

Once released, the bear cub quickly ran off into the nearby woods unharmed.

The Ramapo Police Department appreciates the caller’s vigilance and willingness to assist. Quick reporting and community awareness can make a significant difference, not only for public safety but also for the welfare of local wildlife.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of properly disposing of containers and other waste that can pose hazards to animals. Thanks to the combined efforts of a concerned resident and responding officers, this young bear was able to safely return to its natural habitat.