Police/Fire/EMS

Rockland County Mourns the Loss of Hero Firefighter Fredrick Simms Jr.

Published

10 months ago

June 14, 2025

In Loving Memory of FDNY Captain and Tappan Fire Department Ex-Chief Fredrick Simms Jr.

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of FDNY Captain and Tappan Fire Department Ex-Chief Fredrick Simms Jr., who courageously fought a long battle with 9/11-related cancer.

Freddie was the embodiment of dedication to the fire service. He joined the Tappan Fire Department in March 1998, rising through the ranks from Assistant Engineer to Chief of Department, serving honorably from 2014 to 2016.

On July 15, 2001, Freddie began his career with the FDNY at Ladder Company 58 in the Bronx. He was later promoted to Lieutenant at Ladder Company 40 in Harlem and eventually returned to his roots as Captain of 58 Truck.

His commitment extended beyond the firehouse. Freddie was a New York State Fire Instructor at the Rockland County Fire Training Center, a member of the Orangetown Fire Chiefs Council, and since 2016, served as Rockland County Deputy Fire Coordinator, proudly holding the designation 44-3.

Fredrick Simms Jr. left an indelible mark on Rockland County, making it a better and safer place through his service, leadership, and unwavering courage.

Please keep the Simms family, his FDNY brothers and sisters, and the members of the Tappan Fire Department in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

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.