New York News

Investigation launched into Mount Vernon police involved shooting

Investigation launched into mount vernon police involved shooting - photo licensed by shore news network.

Investigation launched into Mount Vernon police shooting incident

MOUNT VERNON, NY — The Mount Vernon Police Department is investigating an in-custody shooting incident that occurred around 7:40 p.m. on Thursday, October 16. The Westchester County District Attorney’s Office is assisting in the investigation.

The Public and Law Enforcement Integrity Bureau within the District Attorney’s Office is conducting an independent review of the incident. This review is described as a holistic evaluation.

The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are available at this time. Authorities have not yet released additional information regarding the circumstances of the shooting.

“At this time, we cannot comment further as the investigation continues,” a representative from the District Attorney’s Office stated.

The police department encourages any witnesses to come forward with information. Community safety remains a priority as law enforcement agencies work to gather facts related to the incident.

As the investigation unfolds, more information may be released to the public as it becomes available.

The Mount Vernon shooting incident raises significant community concern as police and DA offices collaborate on the investigation.

Georgia man arraigned for rapes in Queens from 1995 to 1997

Georgia man arraigned for rapes in queens from 1995 to 1997 - photo licensed by shore news network.

Georgia man arraigned for rapes in Queens from 1995 to 1997

QUEENS, NY – Michael Benjamin was arraigned today on multiple charges including rape, sodomy, and burglary for allegedly assaulting five women from 1995 to 1997. He was originally indicted in 2005 as an unidentified suspect, John Doe, based on collected evidence.

In May, DNA evidence from a discarded cup found in the Rockdale County Sheriff’s office in Georgia matched DNA samples retrieved from the victims during the investigations. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz cited the bravery of the victims in bringing the case forward.

Benjamin, 57, of Conyers, Georgia, faces a 17-count indictment that includes five counts of rape in the first degree, four counts of sexual abuse in the first degree, and two counts of robbery in the first degree. Supreme Court Justice Gia Morris remanded him and scheduled his next court appearance for December 5.

According to the indictment, the defendant is linked to a series of violent crimes in Jamaica, St. Albans, Laurelton, and Brookville during the late 1990s. Katz stated that “after several decades, this defendant will finally face charges of violently raping at least five women.”

The indictment details four specific incidents involving five victims. On July 24, 1995, Benjamin broke into a home and attacked a woman while she slept. On August 24, 1996, he assaulted another woman at her home.

A third incident occurred on September 16, 1996, when he forced a woman inside her house at gunpoint and assaulted her. The final incident, on February 8, 1997, involved two victims who were attacked in their home.

Benjamin was apprehended in Georgia on September 22 and extradited to New York on October 15. The investigation was conducted by the NYPD Cold Case Squad.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to pursue justice, regardless of how much time has passed.

A man accused of a string of violent rapes in the 1990s finally faces justice in Queens.

Brutal Coney Island shooting left grandmother dead, killer sentenced

Brutal coney island shooting left grandmother dead, killer sentenced - photo licensed by shore news network.

Brutal Coney Island shooting leaves grandmother dead, killer sentenced

BROOKLYN, NY – A man has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for the murder of a construction worker in a shooting outside a job site in Coney Island. Malik Fryar, 34, shot and killed 53-year-old Dorothy Dixon and wounded another worker on February 4, 2019.

District Attorney Eric Gonzalez stated, “This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of a hardworking woman, devastating her family.” The incident occurred when Fryar approached a group of workers and engaged in an argument over job opportunities.

Fryar was found guilty of second-degree murder on September 3, following a jury trial. He was sentenced by Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Phyllis Chu.

According to the investigation, Fryar arrived at the job site with his wife in the passenger seat. After a heated exchange, he returned to his vehicle, retrieved a firearm and shot multiple times at the group, hitting Dixon multiple times.

Dixon was pronounced dead at the hospital, and another worker sustained injuries while fleeing the scene. Fryar fled the site and later attempted to hide from police in an apartment in Manhattan, where he was arrested on July 17, 2019.

The car used by Fryar was recovered a month later, abandoned about five miles away in Brighton Beach. The District Attorney thanked members of the team involved in the investigation.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Christopher Mirabella and Assistant District Attorney Khrystyna Sahin, supervised by Homicide Bureau Chief Leila Rosini.

Fryar’s actions have shocked the community as justice is served for a tragic loss.

District Attorney delivers tough sentence in New Windsor armed robbery case

District attorney delivers tough sentence in new windsor armed robbery case - photo licensed by shore news network.

District Attorney delivers tough sentence in New Windsor armed robbery case

NEW WINDSOR, NY — Joseph Rico, 50, of Poughkeepsie, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for his role in an armed robbery that occurred on March 27. The sentencing took place in Orange County Court on Tuesday.

Rico pleaded guilty to robbery in the first degree. Following his prison term, he will face five years of post-release supervision. His conviction stems from an incident in which he entered a fast-food restaurant while employees were entering before the opening hours.

According to court documents, Rico displayed what looked like a pistol and ordered employees to the ground. He threatened an employee and demanded access to the safe.

The prosecution detailed that when the employee attempted to call the police, Rico assaulted her, stole her phone, and fled the scene. A subsequent investigation by the Town of New Windsor Police Department identified him as the suspect, leading to his arrest.

District Attorney David M. Hoovler expressed appreciation for the investigative efforts of the Town of New Windsor Police Department. He also acknowledged the assistance from the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department.

“The lengthy sentence imposed in this case reflects the senseless violence perpetrated by this defendant,” said Hoovler. He noted that despite the victim avoiding serious injury, Rico showed a dangerous disregard for others.

Chief Trial Assistant District Attorney Richard Moran is prosecuting the case. The public should be reminded that a criminal charge is merely an allegation and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Rico’s sentence serves as a warning to those considering violent crime in the region.

New York District Attorney announces conviction in animal neglect case

New york district attorney announces conviction in animal neglect case - photo licensed by shore news network.

District attorney announces conviction in animal neglect case

MONROE, NY – A jury has convicted Hannah Rose, 33, of Monroe, on two counts of failure to provide proper food and drink to an impounded animal. The verdict was announced by Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler on Friday.

The incident dates back to December 7, when a concerned neighbor reported loud barking from Rose’s residence, indicating the presence of dogs inside. Following this, the Village of Monroe Police Department attempted to make contact with Rose but could not locate her.

On December 13, the police returned to the residence again and reported seeing dogs living in unsanitary conditions. They executed a search warrant and rescued two dogs, a German Shepherd and a Husky, who were found hungry and thirsty.

Following the arrest, Rose admitted the dogs were hers, but the home showed no signs of occupancy. The animals were found surrounded by excrement and without access to food or water.

The dogs have been seized and are now in the care of the Hudson Valley Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Rose is scheduled for sentencing on December 17.

Hoovler expressed gratitude toward the Village of Monroe Police Department for their role in the investigation and thanked the HVSPCA for assistance. “Animals are loving companions who never deserve to be neglected or abused,” he stated.

The charges against Rose are allegations and do not constitute evidence of guilt, as all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Hannah Rose faces a December sentencing after being convicted of animal neglect.

Flushing doctor charged with grand larceny for misusing state funds

Flushing doctor charged with grand larceny for misusing state funds - photo licensed by shore news network.

Flushing doctor charged with grand larceny for misusing state funds

QUEENS, NY – Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James V. McDonald have announced that Dr. QiLi Li faces charges for allegedly misusing nearly $300,000 in state grant money meant for expanding abortion services at her Flushing medical practice.

Dr. Li, 54, of Great Neck, was charged with grand larceny in the second degree, criminal possession of stolen property in the second degree, and falsifying business records in the first degree. She was arraigned on Wednesday and is set to return to court on January 12, 2026. If convicted, she could face five to 15 years in prison.

According to District Attorney Katz, Dr. Li applied for a state grant under the pretense of providing abortion care. Katz stated, “As alleged, this defendant applied for a state grant under the guise of using it for abortion care… The money went instead to expand her business by providing cosmetic procedures.”

Dr. Li filed an application for a grant from the New York State Department of Health on July 25, 2022, claiming she would offer abortion services for free at her practice located at 136-20 38th Avenue. The application included promises to extend her hours, purchase new equipment, and hire more staff.

Li received approval for $340,000 in grant funds and, in August 2023, submitted reimbursement vouchers for purported expenditures on surgical equipment and additional staff. She received two state payments totaling $287,941.

An investigation revealed that Dr. Li did not extend her practice hours and did not purchase surgical equipment. Despite claiming to employ two registered nurses, neither worked as an RN.

Investigators found that the office space, which was meant to serve the expanded practice, was actually operating as a medical spa, offering cosmetic procedures. Following the investigation, Dr. Li made restitution of $287,941 to the New York State Department of Health.

Dr. Li’s case was investigated by personnel from both the New York State Department of Health and the Queens District Attorney’s Office. The investigation and charges highlight ongoing efforts to ensure proper use of public funds designated for healthcare services.

Dr. Li’s alleged scheme raises serious questions about the integrity of funding meant to support abortion services in New York.

New York Woman claims self-defense in murder of ex-boyfriend’s new partner after traveling to Florida

New york woman claims self-defense in murder of ex-boyfriend's new partner after traveling to florida - photo licensed by shore news network.

Woman claims self-defense in murder of ex-boyfriend’s new partner

TAMARAC, FL – A woman accused of traveling from New York to Florida to murder her ex-boyfriend’s new partner took the stand in her defense on Monday. Sakiyna Thompson, 31, is currently on trial for the murder of 23-year-old Kayla Hodgson, who was allegedly stabbed multiple times.

Thompson asserts that she acted in self-defense when she killed Hodgson at the victim’s apartment on July 13, 2022. According to reports, she claimed she intended to have a “woman-to-woman” conversation with Hodgson when the pair confronted each other.

During her testimony, Thompson acknowledged that she killed Hodgson but maintained it was an act of self-defense. “I killed her because she took the glass from the hookah and slashed me across the stomach,” Thompson told jurors.

Thompson indicated she blacked out and did not recall the attack sequence after the initial confrontation. She alleged that upon regaining her senses, she found herself holding the murder weapon and discovered Hodgson on the floor.

Following the incident, Thompson reportedly changed into Hodgson’s clothes and attempted to clean the scene before fleeing. “I was walking in the blood,” she stated.

Feeling afraid, Thompson did not contact authorities and returned to New York. She was arrested on August 3, 2022, and extradited to Florida where she faces a charge of first-degree murder.

Closing arguments from both the prosecution and defense were expected to take place Tuesday. Hodgson’s family established a GoFundMe account after her death, describing her as a beloved daughter and friend to many.

The trial will determine if Thompson’s claim of self-defense holds weight in the eyes of the law.

Bronx man charged with multiple murders, home invasion

Nypd police line, crime scene.

Bronx man charged with multiple murders, home invasion

QUEENS, NY — A Bronx man has been arraigned on charges stemming from the violent home invasion and murder of a couple in Bellerose. Jamel McGriff, 42, faces serious allegations including 13 counts of first-degree murder, among other offenses.

On Monday morning, September 8, McGriff is accused of forcibly entering the home of Frank and Maureen Olton. He allegedly killed the couple and set their house on fire.

According to the District Attorney’s office, McGriff attempted to transfer money from the victims’ bank account before fleeing the scene. “He made multiple attempts to transfer money from their bank account, murdered them, and set the house ablaze,” District Attorney Melinda Katz stated.

McGriff is also charged with two counts of second-degree murder and numerous other crimes such as kidnapping and arson. He faces a potential life sentence without the possibility of parole if convicted.

Queens Supreme Court Justice Kenneth Holder presided over the arraignment and set McGriff’s return date for November 12. During the afternoon of September 8, he was seen leaving the Oltons’ residence carrying a duffel bag shortly before authorities were alerted to a fire at the location.

Firefighters discovered both victims deceased inside the home. They found Frank Olton, 76, in the basement and Maureen Olton, 77, in the living room.

After the alleged crime, McGriff reportedly used Frank Olton’s credit card for purchases totaling $796.10 at Macy’s later that day. He also disposed of the Oltons’ cell phones at a Bronx check cashing store the following morning.

The New York Police Department apprehended McGriff on Tuesday, September 10, in midtown Manhattan. Senior Assistant District Attorney John Esposito is handling the prosecution of the case.

This shocking case reveals gruesome details of a brutal crime that has shaken the community.

Schenectady police arrest two suspects in school burglaries

Schenectady police arrest two suspects in school burglaries - photo licensed by shore news network.

Schenectady police arrest two suspects in school burglaries

SCHENECTADY, NY — The Schenectady Police Department has arrested two individuals linked to recent burglaries at local schools. Emmanuel H. Pless, 20, and Chrishuana McFadden, 21, both of Schenectady, were arrested on Wednesday, October 10.

Authorities identified the suspects in connection with burglaries at Schenectady High School, Central Park Middle School, Paige Elementary School, and Bishop Gibbons School. Community Engagement Officers collaborated with a school district detective to locate the suspects at their believed residence.

The police requested assistance from the department’s Drone Unit during the operation. The drone provided live aerial surveillance, enhancing situational awareness and ensuring officer safety throughout the apprehension process.

The operation prompted a coordinated approach, resulting in the arrest of both suspects without incident. Pless faces five counts of burglary in the third degree, categorized as a D felony. McFadden is charged with three counts of burglary in the third degree and one count of conspiracy in the sixth degree, classified as a B misdemeanor.

Schenectady Police emphasized the importance of community involvement in these investigations. Officers utilized advanced technology to facilitate the arrests and promote safer schools for local students.

The arrests mark a significant step in addressing the concerns of school safety in the area.

The Schenectady community can expect ongoing efforts from local law enforcement to investigate criminal activities and keep schools secure.

Schenectady schools are safer now that authorities have captured the burglars.

Four detained in police bust involving loaded handguns

Four detained in police bust involving loaded handguns - photo licensed by shore news network.

Four detained in police bust involving loaded handguns

UTICA, NY — Utica Police detained four individuals related to a firearms investigation on Wager Street on Wednesday night. The incident occurred at approximately 9:45 PM during proactive patrols by the Crime Prevention Unit.

Officers observed a vehicle with multiple occupants, prompting a stop for traffic violations. Upon approach, officers noticed a light/laser attachment for a handgun in plain view.

The occupants were asked to exit the vehicle, which led to a search of the interior. A loaded 9mm Smith & Wesson handgun was discovered under the driver’s seat while a second loaded Taurus 9mm was found in the glove compartment.

All parties were transported to the Utica Police Department for further questioning. Due to the inability to determine ownership of the firearms, charges were filed against all four.

Neveah Baez, 21, of Rome, and Jesen Blackshear, 19, Michael Reed, 18, and Marcus Reed, 26, all from Utica, received multiple charges including criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree and possession of a firearm.

No further details about the circumstances surrounding the stop were released. The situation remains under investigation.

This bust highlights ongoing efforts to curb illegal weapon possession in the city.

Utica police nab two on drug charges

Utica police department, ny - file photo

Police nab two suspects on drug charges

UTICA, NY – Utica Police investigators from the Special Investigations Unit observed two individuals using narcotics in a vehicle on the 200 block of Genesee St. on Wednesday at approximately 11:10 a.m.

Upon approaching the vehicle, officers found drug paraphernalia and suspected drugs on the center console. The male and female occupants were then removed from the vehicle for further investigation.

During the search, police located over 64 grams of suspected cocaine. Both suspects were taken into custody and transported to the Utica Police Department.

Courtney Broadbent, 31, of Port Lyden, was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree (two counts) and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia in the second degree (two counts).

Michael Preece, 46, of West Lyden, received the same charges as Broadbent. Both individuals were reportedly seen using narcotics prior to their arrest.

The investigation remains ongoing as police continue to address drug-related offenses in the area.

Authorities urge the community to remain vigilant regarding drug use and trafficking in the region.

Two drug users are off the streets as police clamp down on illegal narcotics in Utica.