Police/Fire/EMS

Haverstraw Police Detective Michael Cruger Retires After 30 Years of Law Enforcement Service

Published

11 months ago

May 31, 2025

HAVERSTRAW, NY — The Haverstraw Police Department proudly honored Detective Michael Cruger, who is retiring after a distinguished 20-year career with the department and an impressive 30 years of total service in law enforcement.

Detective Cruger has earned admiration and respect for his exceptional investigative work, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the safety of the Haverstraw community. He is known for his mentorship and leadership, Cruger played a pivotal role in training and guiding new investigators throughout his career.

Before joining the department, Cruger served for a decade as a Correctional Officer at Sing Sing Correctional Facility, where he was also a member of the elite Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT). In 2005, he transitioned to the Haverstraw Police Department, where he began as a patrol officer and later served as a Field Training Officer—demonstrating excellence and a commitment to fostering the next generation of officers.

In 2013, he was promoted to Detective, leading numerous high-profile investigations and becoming a trusted figure in the community. His reputation for being meticulous, ethical, and compassionate earned him the respect of both colleagues and residents alike.

As Detective Cruger embarks on a well-earned retirement, the Town of Haverstraw and the entire Rockland County community extend their deepest gratitude for his service and wish him continued success in the next chapter of his life.

Photos by Haverstraw PD

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.