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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Local State Police Troop Receives New Commander

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.


Major Robert McConnell will take over command of New York State Police Troop G — which includes Saratoga County — after the former commander was promoted ( Courtesy of NYSP).

The New York State Police announced that Superintendent Steven G. James appointed Major Robert J. McConnell Jr. as the 40th Troop Commander of Troop G. Major McConnell previously served as Captain of the Troop G Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

Major McConnell entered the New York State Police Academy on February 14, 2005, and upon graduation, was assigned to Troop F, SP Catskill. In 2010, he was promoted to Sergeant and was again assigned to Troop F, SP Catskill. In 2015, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and served many roles including the Office of Emergency Management, Professional Standards Bureau, the New York State Intelligence Center (NYSIC), and the Special Investigations Unit (SIU).

In 2021, Major McConnell was promoted to Captain and returned to the New York State Intelligence Center before transferring to serve as the Troop G- Zone 1, Zone Commander. 

In this role, he oversaw the daily operations of uniformed personnel, ensuring effective law enforcement and public safety throughout Albany and Rensselaer Counties. In 2024, he transitioned to the role of Captain of the Troop G Bureau of Criminal Investigation. In this role, he led Troop G’s investigative units, managing high-profile investigations, and fostering collaboration among various law enforcement agencies.

Major McConnell grew up in the Averill Park area. He obtained a master’s degree in public administration from Marist College in 2019. He served in the Air National Guard from 2001 – 2007, assigned to the 109th Air Lift Wing Security Forces Squadron. During that time, he was mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He is married with three children and currently resides in Albany County.

“It is an honor to be promoted to Major and assigned as the Troop Commander for Troop G. I look forward to leading our dedicated team of sworn and civilian personnel,” Major McConell said.  “I am committed to working with our law enforcement partners and community leaders, to ensure the communities we serve remain safe places to live, work, and raise a family.”

Troop G has 24 stations, serving the public in 10 counties, including Albany, Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Washington, and Warren.

Major McConnell’s appointment to Troop Commander was effective December 18th, 2025.  He replaces Major Christopher T. Gilroy, who was promoted to the rank of Staff Inspector- Field Command.

New York State Police Arrest Two Following Milton Burglary Investigation

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

On December 21, 2025, State Police of Saratoga arrested Kevin R. Kelly, 35, of Ballston Spa, NY, and Nicholas J. Murtlow, 36, of Middle Grove, NY, each for:

o Burglary 2nd, a class “C” felony

o Conspiracy 4th, a class “E” felony

o Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 5th, a class “A” misdemeanor

o Possession of Burglar Tools, a class “A” misdemeanor

Murtlow was also charged with a vehicle and traffic law violation.

On December 21, 2025, at approximately 1:55 p.m., Troopers responded to a home on Rowland Street in Milton for reports of suspicious activity. On arrival, Murtlow and Kelly were located on the property actively removing items from a house and placing them in a vehicle. The investigation determined that neither man had permission to enter the home or to remove items that did not belong to them. Further investigation discovered a burglar tool in the vehicle the pair were using.

Murtlow and Kelly were arrested at the scene and transported to SP Saratoga for processing. Both were arraigned at the Milton Town Court. Kelly was remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional facility in lieu of $10,000 cash, $20,000 bond, or a $100,000 partially secured bond. Murtlow was remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional facility without bail. 

Teen Pleads Guilty in Ballston Lake Murder

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Acting Saratoga County District Attorney Jennifer L. Buckley announced that Jaiden A. Ildefonso pled guilty in the Saratoga County Court to Murder in the Second Degree, a Class “A-1” Felony in violation of New York State Penal Law Section 125.25. 

The Defendant had been charged in connection with a fatal May 31, 2025, stabbing in suburban Ballston Lake. The 20-year-old victim, Simon Brault, had intervened in a physical altercation between his underage brother and another minor outside his home. During the group altercation, the Defendant quickly approached and stabbed Brault- piercing his aorta. The Defendant and other minor then fled the scene. 

Members of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office and EMTs arrived almost immediately at Brault’ s home and rushed him to the Albany Medical Center where he later succumbed to his injuries. 

Investigators from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office were able to track the Defendant’s vehicle nearly 50 miles away to Schoharie County. Thanks to their training and professionalism, they were able to quickly arrive in Schoharie County, gather invaluable physical and electronic evidence, as well as take the Defendant into custody without any further issue. 

The 18-year-old Defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on March 13, 2026, to 15 years to Life in State Prison. At the conclusion of his State Prison sentence, he will remain under Parole Supervision for the remainder of his natural life. The Defendant will also be given Full Stay Away Orders of Protection for the maximum period of time for surviving family members.

“Our son Simon was a beautiful person and everyone who knew him will tell you how nice and kind he was,” said the victim’s father, Bernard Brault. “This tragedy is senseless. We are relieved that Jaiden has admitted his role and that he is being held accountable. Nothing will bring Simon back, but we want to thank the Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney’s Office for bringing justice.”

The Brault Family has indicated that they have started a scholarship fund at the Hudson Valley Community College in memory of their son named the “Simon Brault Memorial Second Chance Scholarship.” 

The scholarship is meant to help students that have overcome hardship and need financial aid. More information concerning the scholarship may be found at the Hudson Valley Community College Foundation’s Web site. 

The case was prosecuted by General Felony Unit Bureau Chief Joseph A. Frandino, Assistant District Attorney Gabrielle Treiling, and District Attorney Investigator Timothy Sicko.

Stewart’s Shops Raises $1.8 Million for Local Children’s Charities

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Neighborhood Buzz.

Image via Stewart’s Shops.

BALLSTON SPA — Stewart’s 40th annual Holiday Match campaign raised more than $1.8 million to support local children’s charities, the company announced on Dec. 29.

Stewart’s customers donated more than $900,000 during this year’s campaign.

Stewart’s doubled every donation and there were no administrative fees.

This means hundreds of nonprofit organizations that benefit children in New York and Vermont will receive support from the 2025 Holiday Match campaign.

Since Holiday Match began in 1986, the program has raised more than $40 million to support organizations focused on improving the lives of children.

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying for Holiday Match funds are encouraged to apply online by Jan. 31st

Meet Boots!

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Neighborhood Buzz.

Boots is a sweet, quiet girl who is currently living as an indoor–outdoor cat with an older small dog. She has been around many foster pups over time, but she’s quite timid when meeting new animals and prefers a calm, predictable environment.

Originally abandoned by her previous owner, Boots is now being cared for temporarily by someone who, unfortunately, cannot keep her long-term. She has never lived with other cats, so we recommend she find a home where she can possibly be the only feline friend.

Boots loves affection on her own terms—she soaks up attention when she wants it and then enjoys curling up in a cozy hiding spot for her alone time. She’s a gentle, sweet girl who would thrive in a quiet home with a patient adopter who will let her personality shine.

Boots is a Courtesy Post.

If you are interested in meeting or adopting her, please contact the HOPE Pet Adoption Center at 518-450-7013 for more information.

NYSERDA Announces Grant Awards for Projects across the State.

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has announced more than $23 million has been awarded through the 2025 Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) Initiative to 15 innovative projects that will reduce statewide carbon emissions through innovative technologies and energy efficiency upgrades. 

The projects, six of which are located in disadvantaged communities, were selected by NYSERDA to participate, subject to successful execution of contracts, in the Building Cleaner Communities Competition or the Commercial and Industrial Carbon Challenge. Today’s announcement advances community and economic development across New York State while reducing energy usage, increasing comfort, and promoting cleaner air and environment.

“These innovative projects will make a significant impact across New York State by redefining how our buildings and infrastructure are designed, operated, and powered,” NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “By upgrading existing structures with energy efficient technologies and advancing clean energy construction, New York is leading our communities toward a cleaner and healthier future.”

Commercial and Industrial Carbon Challenge Awards

The Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Carbon Challenge is a competitive program that provides funding to large energy users such as manufacturers, colleges, universities, health care facilities, and office building owners in New York State to implement clean energy projects that reduce carbon emissions. Projects may utilize a combination of energy or manufacturing process efficiency strategies, carbon capture technology, low-carbon fuel utilization, renewable generation, or energy storage.

NYSERDA awarded over $5 million for two projects located in the Finger Lakes and Capital Region:

• Finger Lakes Health will implement seven greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects over the next three years at Geneva General Hospital in Geneva and Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital in Penn Yan, replacing aging systems, improving HVAC system resilience, and reducing energy use.

• The Saratoga County Sewer District will modify existing processes at the County’s existing wastewater treatment plant to provide a long-term, cost-saving solution for biosolids management that produces renewable fuels and reduces the environmental impact of operations. 

 “Sustainable building practices are key elements in the state’s economic, energy and environmental future,”  New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said,  “Our partnership with NYSERDA on our Downtown Revitalization Initiative and the State Energy Plan is creating green buildings and projects throughout the State, and our mutual commitment to communities identified as disadvantaged further ensures that our transition to a green economy is both just and equitable.  We look forward to expanding that partnership into the future as we implement the Governor’s visionary and practical energy goals.”   

The announcement builds on the success of these two programs. Through the Building Cleaner Communities Competition, 70 projects have leveraged nearly $1.3 billion in public and private investment since 2018 to implement carbon neutral or net zero energy performance solutions. Through the C&I Carbon Challenge since 2018, NYSERDA has made awards that will cumulatively reduce 7.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, the equivalent of removing more than 1 million cars from the road annually.

Funding for this program was included in the 2025 Regional Economic Development Council Initiative. The REDC process continues to support and empower regional stakeholders in developing strategic plans and funding priorities that meet local economic needs. Regional Councils reviewed projects from this program and provided scores that reflect how well a project aligns with a region’s goals and strategies. 

Applicants utilized New York’s Consolidated Funding Application, the state’s single application for state resources, which includes programs for numerous agencies. It is designed to provide expedited and streamlined access to a combined pool of grant funds and tax credits from dozens of existing programs.

Saratoga Springs Removes Tax Discount for Early Payment

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

The Saratoga Springs City Council voted at its November 18 meeting to remove the 2.25% discount offered for payment in full of property taxes on or before March 1. 

The decision is expected to yield over $280,000 in additional revenue for the city. The City’s Charter Commission had looked into removing the discount as part of a broader update effort. 

2026 Taxes are due on March 1st, June 1st, September 1st and December 1st. If payment falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date will be the following business day. Payments may be made online at www.saratoga-springs.org, in person at City Hall, 474 Broadway, or mailed to the address below:

Commissioner of Finance 

P.O. Box 328 

Saratoga Springs 

NY 12866-0328

Week of January 2 – January 8, 2026            

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Blotter, Police Blotter.

Blotter report

 for Dec. 23- Dec. 29, 2025 

Dec. 23, 2025. 8:12 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Glens Falls resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor motor vehicle violation: registration suspended. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 23, 2025. 10:41 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the Town of Clifton Park during a drug/alcohol incident. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 23, 2025. 3:09 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Schenectady resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 23, 2025. 6:30 p.m.- New York State Police arrested an Albany resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense. The arrest occurred after a two-vehicle crash on Route 146. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 23, 2025. 11:07 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 24, 2025. 1:30 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a resident of Jamaica N.Y. in the Town of Wilton on charges of felony 2nd degree bail jumping. Central arraignment. 

Dec. 24, 2025. 11:14 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the City of Glens Falls on charges of DWI- first offense and aggravated DWI: blood alcohol content of .18 or higher- no priors. Released to third party. 

Dec. 25, 2025. 12:00- 8:00 a.m.- Police received multiple reports of a large man in a red suit running along roof tops, jumping down chimneys and shouting “Ho, Ho, Ho. Merry Christmas!” Matter has been reported to North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) for further monitoring. 

Dec. 25, 2025. 10:12 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Ballston on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree obstruction of governmental administration and resisting arrest. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 25, 2025. 7:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Cohoes woman in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 26, 2025. 6:14 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 26, 2025. 11:01 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Ballston on charges of felony 2nd degree assault: intent to cause injury with a weapon and felony 3rd degree criminal possession of a weapon: previous conviction. Central Arraignment. 

Dec. 27, 2025. 8:20 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Gansevoort resident in the Town of Lake George on charges of misdemeanor third degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. 

Dec. 27, 2025. 9:24 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a South Glens Falls resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor 7th degree possession of a controlled substance. Turned over to another agency. 

Dec. 27, 2025. 10:20 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.

Dec. 27, 2025. 2:10 p.m. and Dec. 28, 2025. 9:05 a.m.- New York State Police arrested two people on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny and 6th degree misdemeanor conspiracy. The arrests stem from an incident that occurred Dec. 23, 2025, in the Town of Malta. The first arrest was of a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Malta. The second arrest was of a Ballston Lake resident and occurred in the Town of Clifton Park. Appearance tickets were issued. 

Dec. 28, 2025. 1:20 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of 2nd degree felony bail jumping.

Dec. 28, 2025. 5:54 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corinth resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 29, 2025. 7:09 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Glens Falls resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 29, 2025. 1:00 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Wynantskill resident in the Town of Wilton for misdemeanor 3rd degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. The arrest stemmed from a single car accident on Interstate 87. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 29, 2025. 6:03 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the City of Mechanicville on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Appearance ticket issued. 

Dec. 29, 2025. 6:22 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa man in the Town of Malta on charges of felony 2nd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury with a weapon. 

Albert Frank Callucci

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

Saratoga Springs – Albert Frank Callucci, 82, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025. He was born on August 14, 1943, in Utica, New York, where he spent his early years and graduated from Proctor High School.

Albert was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who placed his family at the center of his life. He is survived by his loving wife, Carol (née Latella), and his cherished children: Lisa Brady (Pat), Frank Callucci, and Christine Joyce (Brian). He was a proud grandfather to Daniel, Patrick, and Erin Brady, and Kevin, Brendan, and Kate Joyce, each of whom brought him immense joy.

In his younger years, Albert had a deep love for music and especially enjoyed playing the piano, a talent he possessed by ear. Music remained a fond and lasting part of who he was.

Albert dedicated much of his professional life to the McDonald’s Corporation, where he worked for many years. He later continued his career with the J&J Corporation. In 2012, he was appointed as a member of the City of Saratoga Springs Housing Authority Board. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues through his strong work ethic and reliability.

Above all else, Albert will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle whose charismatic personality, infectious laugh, and wonderful sense of humor brightened every room he entered. His warmth, kindness, and laughter left a lasting impression on all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed by family and friends alike.

Relatives and friends may call from 11am-12 Noon on Friday, January 2 at St. Clement’s Church (231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 Noon.

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

Malcolm “Butch” Arpei, Sr.

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

Saratoga Springs – Malcolm “Butch” Arpei, Sr., age 90, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, at Saratoga Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 4, 1935, in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Peter and Helena (Parish) Arpei. Malcolm proudly dedicated many years of service to the New York State Department of Transportation before retiring. 

Butch was the “go to guy,” he was always willing to help anyone that asked with nothing expected in return.  He enjoyed talking with anyone, you could be a stranger and start a conversion with him.  

Butch had a deep appreciation for history, particularly black powder cannons which he competed in many events. He held a strong interest in religion. He was thankful to St Clements Church for sending someone to his home weekly to give him communion and good conversation.

He also enjoyed camping and traveling, especially the many trips he shared with his beloved wife (Ginny) and family. He particularly enjoyed their trips to Italy where they visited the Vatican and their trip to England. Time spent with family was his greatest joy.  When his beloved wife became ill, he was by her side 24/7 to the end.

He is preceded in death by his wife Virginia of 64 years, daughter Ann Marie, grandson Patrick, son-in-law Doug, brothers John, Tom, Joe and sisters Mary and Kate.

He is survived by his sons, Peter Arpei (Bonnie) and Malcolm Arpei, Jr. (Dawn); daughters, Dianna Narbon (Jeff), Susan Arpei, and Lisa Maisal; sisters, Madeline Caprara and Joan Rogers; 13 grandchildren; and 33 great-grandchildren, all of whom will cherish his memory.

The family would like to thank the many neighbors, especially Susan, Rick, and Jenny. Maggy his Postal Carrier for always watching out for Butch. The nurses on D2, Ella and David and Tiffany, ICU.  As well as, St Clements Church, Deacon Frank for their kindness and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Alzheimer’s Disease Research at https://donate.brightfocus.org/adr/give

Calling hours will be held Friday January 16, 2026 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm immediately followed by funeral service at 12:00 pm at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY.   Burial will follow at St Peters Cemetery, West Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY.

For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.