Skip to main content

Author: Saratoga TODAY

Week of May 29 – June 4, 2026

BALLSTON

Catherine Sausville sold property at 32 Nolan Rd to JEM Properties for $160,000

Glen Jacobson sold property at 182 Charlton Rd to Katherine Fischer for $700,000

GREENFIELD

Kelby Santoro sold property at 8 Greenfield Manor Rd to Jessica Lachanski for $500,000

Kevin Carroll  sold property at 10 Frasier Rd to William Tuczynski for $370,000

Mitchell Bard sold property at 9 Kilmer Broadway to Nadia Cherubin for $150,000

John Chowske sold property at 222 Middle Grove Rd to Tammy Willis for $400,000

MALTA

Mark Passino sold property at Middleline Rd to Lois Stafford for $180,000

Michael Steves sold property at 10 Janes Ave to Carolyn Vopelak for $345,000

John Ryan sold property at 27 Hillman Loop to Brian Flynn for $490,000

Susan Furtonato sold property at 19 Saratoga Ave to Lisa Spring for $350,000

MILTON

Mark Passino sold property at Middleline Rd to Lois Stafford for $180,000

Brianna Hanson sold property at 412 Antler Ct to Daniel Peluso for $330,000

Kyle Williams sold property at 727-735 Geyser Rd to Geyser Homes LLC for $500,000

Simron LLC sold property at 16 Lancaster Pl to Nicholas Brewer for $250,000

SARATOGA

Elizabeth Sullivan sold property at 157 Walsh Rd to Amie Gabriel for $500,000

Ellen Varner sold property at 16 Bourbon St to John Phillips for $199,000

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Adelphi Owner II LLC sold property at 19 Washington St Apt 454 to 4934 Lakeshore Dr LLC for $975,000

Christopher Sass sold property at 32 Allen St to Saratoga Capital Group LLC for $687,500

Christopher Sass sold property at 34 Allen St to Saratoga Capital Group LLC for $687,500

100 West Avenue LLC sold property at 100 West Ave to AMH and RVG Real Estate Holding  for $670,000

WILTON

Robert McQueeney sold property at 6 Greylock Dr to Thomas Hogan for $615,000

Gianfranco Frittelli sold property at 288 Northern Pines Rd to Aaron Haugen for $447,000

Christopher Keller sold property at 16 Fenimore Pl to Kirk Emmons for $570,000

Chantrea Maclean sold property at 326 Louden Rd to Yan Chen for $342,500

Hopkins Sentenced to 32 Years to Life for Abuse of a Child

Brian Hopkins is led away after being sentenced to 32 years to life in prison. (Aidan Cahill)
Brian Hopkins won’t be released until at least 2058 after being convicted of two felony child abuse charges (Courtesy of Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office)

A Saratoga County man has been sentenced to 32 years to life in prison for sexual abuse of a child. 

Brian Hopkins received the maximum sentence in after being convicted in February of predatory sexual assault of a child and 2nd degree course of sexual conduct against a child. 

The maximum sentence for the first charge is 25 years to life in prison while the max sentence for the second charge is seven years in prison followed by up to 15 years supervised release. 

Hopkins received an enhanced sentence due to a 2000 conviction for physically assaulting a one-year-old child.

“At its simplest, this case is about a man who sexually abused a young boy from the age of six through 13 in Saratoga County,” prosecutors said during the sentencing hearing. 

In his sentencing, Judge James Davis followed the recommendation of the prosecutor to have the sentences run consecutively. In addition, orders of protection were issued preventing contact between Hopkins and protected individuals in the case. 

“It’s unconscionable, and that’s why I sentenced you to the maximum penalty available under the law,” Davis 

During the sentencing hearing, the victim gave a statement advocating for the maximum sentence so that Hopkins would be prevented from abusing anyone else. Hopkins did not speak at the sentencing hearing. 

The earliest Hopkins can be released is 2058, when he will be around 77 years old. 

After the hearing, Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby praised the decision. 

 “This defendant is a pedophile who deserves to spend the rest of his life in prison for the horrific abuse he inflicted on a child,” said District Attorney Eby. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message that Saratoga County will relentlessly pursue justice for child victims and hold predators fully accountable.” 

As for the victim, Eby praised his courage in coming forward. 

“The victim just showed a remarkable strength in not only protecting this community, but protected children from this pedophile,” Eby said. 

Meet  Velo!!

What can we say about Velo. To say he is a bigger cat is an understatement since he is a whopping 27 pounds. He is a very sweet boy who was surrendered with his housemate, Ripley, when his owner fell on hard times. He is so sweet and loves attention and to be talked to. Velo will need someone who can monitor his food intake and spend time playing with him so that he will lose weight. Although Velo lived with Ripley, they seem to do better as solo cats and will be adopted separately. Velo is 5 years old, updated on vaccines and tested negative for FIV and FeLV. If you need a workout partner, he is the one for you!

The HOPE Cat Adoption Center is located in the Wilton Mall and is open to the public Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 11-4 or by appointment. Online adoption applications may be found on our website at www.hopeanimalrescue.org. For any questions give us a call at 518-450-7013.

Regional Juried Exhibition “Saratoga: Town & Country” Opens at Eden Compton Gallery

Eden Compton Gallery is announced the opening of Saratoga: Town & Country, a regional juried exhibition featuring artists within a 100 mile radius of Saratoga Springs including the greater Capital Region and central Adirondacks. 

The exhibition opens with a public reception and awards presentation on June 6th, 4-7 p.m., and will showcase a diverse collection of paintings, drawings, mixed media, and fine art inspired by the unique character of Saratoga Springs and its surrounding areas. 

The exhibition was juried by Ann Larsen, a nationally recognized painter and Master Artist with the American Impressionist Society. She is also previous President of American Women Artists. 

Known for her luminous landscapes and expressive use of color, Larsen brought a discerning eye to the selection process, choosing works that demonstrate technical excellence, originality, and a strong sense of place. 

Located in the heart of Saratoga Springs’ arts district, Eden Compton Gallery is known for exhibiting the contemporary and representational fine art of both local and nationally recognized artists. 

The gallery continues to expand its role as a cultural destination for both residents and visitors with a variety of events, special exhibits and group shows. Awards for the exhibition are generously supported by local sponsors including Discover Saratoga, Soave Faire, and Source Tek (national supplier of fine art panels), whose contributions help recognize artistic excellence while strengthening the connection between the arts and local business community. 

The opening reception on June 6 will provide an opportunity for the public to meet participating artists, view the award-winning works, and celebrate the creative vitality of the Saratoga region. 

The show will be on view until July 17, 2026. Please refer to website for hours.

Milton Marine Inducted into NYS Senate Hall of Fame

Saratoga County Veterans Services Agency Director Frank McClement and Senator Tedisco presents Col. Douglas and his wife, Susan, with a flag (Courtesy of Senator Tedisco)

Senator Jim Tedisco (R,C-Ballston Lake) recently inducted retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher J. Douglas of Milton into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. Col. Douglas served our state and nation in numerous combat tours in Iraq as well as serving in Afghanistan, Somalia and Haiti.

“Col. Douglas is a great patriot who led Marines in five combat tours to protect our nation and way of life, and he continues to serve our country in civilian life with the U.S. Department of War.  I’m proud to recognize Col. Douglas’s service by inducting him into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame,” said Senator Jim Tedisco.

 Douglas currently serves Deputy to the Commanding General and Highly Qualified Expert to the Office of the U.S. Secretary of War.

 Col. Douglas received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Marist College in 1990, where he played Division III football. From March 1985 to June 1991, he served in the U.S. Army Reserve as a combat engineer with Company C, 854th Engineer Battalion.

 In 1991, Col. Douglas completed the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School, The Basic School, and the Infantry Officer Course in Quantico, Virginia. He was then assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines, where he commanded three platoons, was an executive officer, and was the 3/6 battalion adjutant. During this tour, he participated in Operation Battle Griffin in Norway. He served as part of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit in Operations Continue Hope in Somalia, Provide Promise and Deny Flight in the Adriatic Sea, and Support Democracy in Haiti.

 In 1995, Douglas transitioned from active military service to the United States Marine Corps Reserve to pursue a career in Law Enforcement. He entered the New York State Police in January 1996 and served as a Trooper, Investigator, and Narcotics Investigator. 

Following the attack on America on September 11, 2001, Douglas would return to active duty to lead Marines on five combat tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), Enduring Freedom (OEF), Inherent Resolve (OIR), and Freedom’s Sentinel.

He retired as a Narcotics Investigator from the New York State Police in March 2020 to return to active service. 

During the withdrawal from Afghanistan, he served as the assistant chief of staff G-5 at U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command, forward-deployed to Qatar to assist with processing evacuees from Afghanistan. He was also the senior Marine in the Pentagon’s investigation into the August 2021 bombing outside the Kabul airport, that killed 13 U.S. service members and about 170 Afghans. He subsequently retired from the Marine Corps in October 2022.

His personal awards include two Legion of Merits, one with a Combat Distinguishing Device, Two Bronze Star Medals, the Purple Heart, Three Combat Action Ribbons, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V,” a Navy, Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

Douglas and his wife Susan live in Milton, NY. Their son,1LT John B. Douglas IV now serves as an infantry officer in the U.S. Army.

Maureen T. Drennen

GANSEVOORT – Maureen T. Drennen (Myers), age 64, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of her devoted family. She was the beloved wife and best friend of Jack H. Drennen, with whom she shared 45 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Born on August 26, 1961, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Maureen was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph C. Myers III and Dolores K. Myers. She was a woman whose warmth, kindness, and caring spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

Maureen dedicated many years of her professional life working in Information Technology for both Saratoga Hospital and Albany Medical Center. She was admired not only for her dedication, but also for the genuine compassion and friendship she extended to her coworkers, many of whom became like family to her over the years. Her caring heart and infectious sense of humor brightened every room she entered.

Above all else, Maureen’s greatest joy in life was her family. She was a loving wife, a devoted mother, and the absolute best “MomMom” to her grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She treasured every moment spent with them and created countless memories filled with love, laughter, and comfort. Her family was her greatest accomplishment, and the love she poured into them will remain a guiding light for years to come. To those who knew and loved her, Maureen was truly the heart of the family, and her absence leaves an immeasurable void.

In addition to her parents, Maureen was predeceased by her sister, Elaine Myers, and her brother, Stephen Myers.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband, Jack H. Drennen; her children, Michelle Hastings and her fiancé Kevin, Adam Drennen, David Drennen and his fiancée Lorissa, and her daughter and best friend, Sharon McDonald; her son-in-law, Larry Hastings; and her adored grandchildren, Shawn, Jasmine, Lucas, Jensen, Aurora, Laurynn, Jack, and Madalynn, all of whom brought endless joy to her life.

She is also survived by her siblings, Maryann Audet and her husband Jean, Christopher Myers and his wife Kathy, and Joseph C. Myers IV and his wife Carolyn; along with several beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever remember her loving spirit and generous heart.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday, June 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. A funeral service celebrating Maureen’s life will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

A graveside service will immediately follow at Maplewood Cemetery, located at the corner of Weibel Avenue and Louden Road in Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

For online condolences, please visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.

Maria Chindamo Harrison 

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- Maria Chindamo Harrison, 96, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Saratoga Hospital.

Maria was born in Loja, Ecuador, on June 8, 1929. She grew up with her mother, Balbina Suarez, her sister Philomena, and her brothers Juan and Pablo. In 1952, she moved to Virginia to attend Averett College. After completing her studies, she relocated to Manhattan, New York, where she worked at Fiduciary Trust and New York Hospital. Maria would often visit her friend Haiti in Queens NY. It was through Haiti that she met Joseph Chindamo, who would become her husband. After two years of courtship, they married in 1958. Maria embraced her new family and its traditions, including learning to cook Italian dishes with the help of her mother‑in‑law and sister‑in‑law. She and Joseph welcomed their first son, Frankie, in 1959; their second son, Stephen, in 1963; and their youngest, Robert, in 1964.

In 1960, Maria and Joseph purchased their first home in Howard Beach, Queens, where she lived until 2009. During the 1960s, she worked as a Doctor’s Receptionist before transitioning to education. In 1972, she became a Resource Center Coordinator at Beach Channel High School in Rockaway, New York, a position she held until her retirement in 1992. The family’s life in Howard Beach was marked by stability and community until Joseph’s death from cancer in 1981. In 1984, while still teaching at Beach Channel, Maria met Bill Harrison, who would become her second husband. Maria and Bill moved to Saratoga Springs in 2009 and remained together until Bill’s passing in 2014.

Maria and Bill traveled the world on the People2People student ambassadorship program, introducing hundreds of young people to cultures around the globe. She was also the editor of the newsletter for the United Nations Women’s Guild, where she met with diplomats, ambassadors, and first ladies. Maria later served as Director of Protocol for the AirlineAmbassadors.com, where she would want charitable donations to be sent. She was featured prominently in the book, Wings of Love, by Nancy Rivard, president of the Airline Ambassadors. 

In Saratoga Springs, Maria quickly became an active and recognizable presence. She served on the board of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and helped organize numerous charitable events. As a member of the local garden club, she contributed to beautification efforts throughout the city. She was also a devoted parishioner at St. Clement’s Church, faithfully attending the Sunday 4 p.m. Mass. Known for her elegance and sociability, Maria enjoyed attending galas, brunches, and the Saratoga Race Track with her close friends, who were affectionately known around town as the “Glam Squad.”

Maria is survived by her sons Stephen and Frankie, and by her grandchildren, Sara and Robert. She endured the loss of her youngest son, Robert, in 2000, a grief she carried with quiet strength. Throughout her long life, Maria was defined by her generosity, her resilience, and her ability to form lasting connections. Her presence will be deeply missed by her family and by the many people whose lives she touched.

A viewing was held on Thursday, May 28 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373). A funeral Mass will take place Friday, May 29, at 10 a.m. at St. Clement’s Church. Maria’s ashes will be interred with those of her beloved son Robert at Mount Saint Mary Cemetery in Flushing, New York.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com. 

Week of May 29 – June 4, 2026  

May 20, 2026. 7:36 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Halfmoon on two counts of attempted felony burglary: dwelling with explosives or deadly weapon, three counts of misdemeanor 4th degree criminal possession or a weapon: intent to use, and attempted misdemeanor criminal mischief: intent to damage property. Held- no bail. 

May 20, 2026. 10:23 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Porter Corners resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree bail jumping. Released on own recognizance. 

May 20, 2026. 2:06 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree bail jumping. 

May 20, 2026. 8:01 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Milton on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree bail jumping. Cash bail. 

May 21, 2026. 2:35 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Village of Corinth on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny and 5th degree criminal possession of stolen property. Appearance ticket issued. 

May 22, 2026. 9:39 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Malta on charges of felony DWI: prior conviction within the last 10 years and felony operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher, prior conviction within the last 10 years. Appearance ticket issued. 

May 22, 2026. 9:45 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Cohoes resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. 

May 22, 2026. 11:00 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Hadley resident in the Town of Hadley on charges of felony 3rd degree criminal mischief: damage to another person’s property >$250. Held- no bail. 

May 22, 2026. 10:39 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWI-first offense and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

May 23, 2026. 7:37 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Middle Grove resident in the Village of Round Lake on charges of felony 2nd degree assault: intent to cause physical injury with weapon/ instrument, felony 1st degree robbery: use/threatens use of dangerous instrument, and felony 2nd degree gang assault: cause serious physical injury. Cash bail. Original incident occurred in the Village of Ballston Spa on May 19. Investigation pending. 

May 23, 2026. 2:44 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Watervliet resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal impersonation: other person. Appearance ticket issued.

May 23, 2026. 7:25 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Stillwater resident on charges of misdemeanor forcible touching- touch sexual/ intimate parts of another person and misdemeanor 3rd degree sexual abuse: subject another person to sexual contact without consent. Investigation pending. 

May 24, 2026. 12:22 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Halfmoon on charges of misdemeanor DWI-first offense and misdemeanor driving with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. 

May 24, 2026. 2:03 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a West Harrison resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor DWI-first offense and misdemeanor driving with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

May 25, 2026. 3:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park juvenile on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny, attempted felony 3rd degree grand larceny: value exceeds $3000, felony 3rd degree burglary: illegal entry with intent to commit a crime, and felony 3rd degree criminal mischief: damage another person’s property amount over $250. Family court appearance ticket issued. Original incident occurred on May 18 in the Town of Malta. Investigation pending. 

May 25, 2025. 6:06 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the City of Schenectady on charges of felony 3rd degree burglary: illegal entry with intent to commit a crime and misdemeanor petit larceny. A second individual, a Waterford resident, was arrested at the same time on charges of misdemeanor 5th degree conspiracy. Appearance tickets issued. Original incident occurred in the Town of Clifton Park. The Schenectady resident was arrested on charges of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance in a separate incident at the same time and turned over to another agency. 

May 25, 2026. 7:36 p.m.-  New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park juvenile on charges of attempted felony 3rd degree grand larceny: value exceeds $3000, felony 3rd degree burglary: illegal entry with intent to commit a crime, and felony 3rd degree criminal mischief: damage another person’s property amount over $250. Family court appearance ticket issued. Original incident occurred on May 18 in the Town of Malta. Investigation pending. 

May 25, 2025. 9:14 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Rexford juvenile on charges of felony 3rd degree burglary: illegal entry with intent to commit a crime, and felony 3rd degree criminal mischief: damage another person’s property amount over $250, and felony tampering with physical evidence: conceal/Destroy. Family court appearance ticket issued. Original incident occurred on May 18 in the Town of Malta. Investigation pending. 

May 26, 2026. 5:18 P.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Lake resident in the Town of Charlton on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense, misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense and aggravated DWI- BAC of .18 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle accident on Swaggertown Road. 

Saratoga Soccer Fans Gear Up for World Cup: Local Watch Parties Announced

SARATOGA SPRINGS — As the world prepares for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup to return to North American soil for the first time in over thirty years, the Saratoga Springs chapter of the American Outlaws is inviting the local community to join the excitement. Starting this June, the chapter will host a series of inclusive, family-friendly watch parties at Bailey’s Saratoga, creating a dedicated hub for both lifelong fans and newcomers to the sport.

With interest in soccer reaching record highs across the Capital Region, the American Outlaws Saratoga Springs aims to provide a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for fans to cheer on the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT).

“Our goal is to bring the passion of the stadium right here to Saratoga Springs,” said Chris LaPointe, president of the local American Outlaws chapter. “The World Cup is a unique event that brings people together from all walks of life. We want to ensure our community has a central place to celebrate, connect, and support the team together.”

The American Outlaws is a nationwide nonprofit social organization dedicated to supporting the United States National Soccer Teams. With over 210 chapters across the country, the organization provides a community for fans to gather, travel, and foster a permanent, dedicated fan base for soccer in the U.S. 

To follow the organization and see updates on events, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AOSaratoga.