Police/Fire/EMS

Jewish Community Leaders Conduct Countywide Police Appreciation Tour in Rockland County

Published

6 years ago

May 20, 2020

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – This past week the Simon Wiesenthal Center, Jewish Federation and Foundation of Rockland County, and police chaplain David Heskiel joined together by bringing pastries and sponsoring meals to each of the five police departments located in Rockland County.

The group was welcomed by each of the departments including Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police Troop F, and the Ramapo, Haverstraw and Clarkstown police departments

During these most difficult of times, the delegation of Jewish communal organizations believed it necessary and appropriate to demonstrate to local law enforcement recognition our valued partnership in combating hate and appreciation for the sacrifices made every day in protecting the Rockland County community.

“No words seem adequate enough to express our gratitude and admiration for the brave woman and men who run towards danger to selflessly save others,” said Steve Gold, Co-President of Federation and Foundation of Rockland County.

“Rockland County has not only been an epicenter for the pandemic, but it has been simultaneously a focal point of the age-old virus of anti-Semitism. The Jewish community in Rockland County has had a real need for protection and the law enforcement agencies that we visited all deserve our gratitude for their efforts, their sacrifices, putting themselves in harm’s way for our benefit,” said Michael Cohen, Eastern Director of the Simon Wiesenthal Center.

The pastries were generously donated by Rivkie Feiner of Universal Communications Network in conjunction with Rabbi Yisroel Kahan and Hava Java. The meals were donated by Mr. Heskiel, a member of the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Rockland Community Relations Council and by Chickies – www.chickiesfood.com – owner Rafi Trietel.

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.