Police/Fire/EMS

Firefighters Successfully Contain Quick Moving Fire in Sparkill

Published

2 years ago

December 19, 2023

On 12/11 at 1:50am, the Sparkill-Palisades Fire Department was dispatched for a structure fire in Palisades, along with Tappan Fire Department and Nyack Fire Department. The responding units were alerted by dispatch to numerous calls reporting a fire, including initial reports from Orangetown Police Department.

Chief Roper (Tappan FD), Chief Yannazzone (Sparkill FD), and Captain Panter (Sparkill FD) were the first units to arrive on scene at 1:54am. Upon arrival, a “Signal 12” was transmitted, confirming a structure fire. Subsequently, a 2nd alarm was transmitted to bring additional units to the scene.

Crews were met with heavy fire, predominantly concentrated in the rear of the house. Swift and coordinated action by the crews from Sparkill FD and Tappan FD resulted in the rapid deployment of hose lines, leading to the quick extinguishment of the fire, preventing further damage.

The collaboration and assistance from mutual aid departments, including Tappan FD, Nyack FD, Piermont FD, Orangeburg FD, Central Nyack FD, and South Orangetown Ambulance Corps were instrumental in bringing the situation under control. The Sparkill FD extends its gratitude for the professionalism and collaboration displayed during this emergency.
All residents were out of the home prior to fire department arriving on scene and no injuries resulted from the incident.

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.