Police/Fire/EMS

Lt. John Bellew Memorial 5K Run Come Remember A Friend, Honor A Hero & Continue A Legacy April 27th

Published

2 years ago

March 5, 2024

Saturday, April 27, 2024 11:00 am Pearl River Volunteer Fire House Central Ave. Pearl River, NY

John G. Bellew‚ 37‚ firefighter‚ New York City Fire Department‚ died January 23‚ 2005‚ when he succumbed to injuries after being forced to jump out of a fourth story building while battling a fire. John was a 10 year veteran who was assigned to Engine 46‚ Ladder 27.

Submitted by his wife – He loved to ski‚ run and play with his children. He left behind 4 young children‚ Brielle (6)‚ Jack (3)‚ Katreana (2) and Kieran (5 months)‚ and a wife of 10 years. He is best known for his ability to talk with everyone about anything and his great smile. He will forever be missed by his family and remembered as a hero as both a firefighter and father.

Katreana Bellew wrote a screenplay about Black Sunday and her father’s death, and the subsequent years that followed. The film is a representation of the bravery of our nation’s first responders, the brotherhood of the FDNY, as well as a tale of grief and how people must move on with their lives, even when the worst thing imaginable happened.

To register go to: www.johnbellew.com

Register Early – Only pre-registered runners are guaranteed a tee shirt! Day Includes: Run • Awards • BBQ • Face Painting • DJ, Picture ID will be required in order to be served beer.

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.