Government

Mark Woods Named 2024 Rockland County Veteran of the Year

Published

2 years ago

November 26, 2023

Mark is a 20-year veteran of law enforcement with specialized investigatory experience in the NYPD and Federal Law Enforcement. More than 20 years of experience in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and New York Army National Guard.

He currently serves as the Director of Rockland County Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Program. The Dwyer Program is a non-clinical, Veteran peer-to-peer mentoring program with numerous locations across New York State. At risk Veterans are served through outreach, scheduled weekly walks, monthly lunch meetings, book clubs and other recreational activities designed to build relationships between veterans and their families, with a focus on mental health and suicide prevention.

Mark served with the US Army during the Iraq War in Tal Afar, Nineveh Governorate. A U.S. Army Major, imbedded and served as the primary advisor to the Mayor of Tal Afar, Iraq (pop. 200,000) during operation Iraqi Freedom. As the commander of a Civil Affairs Team, developed governance and oversaw the implementation of over 20 million dollars in infrastructure projects to include, schools, medical facilities, water wells, pipelines, utility stations, a public library as well as others.

Government

Report Litterbugs in Rockland County Through Keep Rockland Beautiful Program

Published

1 day ago

May 9, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Littering is illegal and can result in fines for those who commit the offense. Some litterbugs simply need to be informed and reminded that littering — whether deliberate or unintentional — can end with a personal commitment to stop.

The Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program encourages the public to report people who litter in an effort to help make Rockland County’s roadways cleaner. The program provides every individual with an opportunity to be an active participant in reducing litter.

If you see someone littering from their car, or trash blowing out from the back of a truck, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office will send the vehicle owner a warning letter based on your report to Keep Rockland Beautiful.

To report a litterbug, visit: Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program

Government

Senate Approves Bill Expanding SPCA Fingerprinting Access

Published

3 days ago

May 7, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

A bipartisan bill sponsored by Pete Harckham aimed at helping SPCAs across New York more effectively investigate and prosecute animal cruelty cases has passed the State Senate unanimously.

The legislation, S.1664, would authorize SPCA officers statewide to access the same live scan fingerprinting system currently used by law enforcement agencies following an arrest. Supporters say the measure would streamline arrest processing, improve officer efficiency, and help prevent suspects from avoiding prosecution.

At present, many SPCA officers in New York must rely on outside law enforcement agencies to process fingerprints after making an arrest, often causing delays.

“SPCA officers must have the tools and resources they need to protect defenseless animals from cruelty and neglect and the public at large from serial abusers,” Harckham said in a statement. “With access to live scan fingerprinting, officers can quickly determine whether a suspect has a history of abuse or is wanted for other crimes.”

Harckham said the legislation was inspired by conversations with officers from the Putnam County SPCA, who reported that delays in fingerprint processing sometimes allowed suspects with outstanding warrants to remain free longer than necessary.

Chief Ken Ross of the Putnam County SPCA praised the bill’s passage, noting the connection between animal cruelty and other violent crimes.

“Animal cruelty crimes are especially disturbing because they target the most vulnerable,” Ross said. “These offenses are often linked to other forms of violence, including child abuse and domestic violence.”

According to supporters of the legislation, animal cruelty cases have increased across New York since the COVID-19 pandemic. SPCAs cite rising living costs, behavioral health challenges, and the expiration of eviction protections as contributing factors.

Data from Humane Society International indicates that 85% of individuals arrested for animal cruelty have prior arrests, many involving felony offenses. The organization also reports significant overlap between domestic violence and animal abuse cases.

If enacted into law, the bill would expand investigative capabilities for SPCAs statewide and strengthen coordination between animal welfare agencies and law enforcement officials.