Displaying items by tag: saratoga

COURT

Timothy A. Martin, 40, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced Dec. 6 to 2 to 4 years in state prison, after pleading to felony burglary. 

John R. Bellon, 25, of Porter Corners, pleaded Dec. 6 to criminal possession, and criminal sale of a controlled substance, in Malta. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 30. 

Scott F. Luciano, 32, of Galway, and Shane A. Nadolny, 41, of Ballston Spa, each pleaded Dec. 5 to robbery in the first-degree, admitting that they forcibly stole money from a man in Saratoga Springs on July 9, 2018. Sentencing is scheduled Jan. 30, 2019. 

Isaiah M. Robinson, 23, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded Dec. 4 to felony burglary. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 29. 

Aaron Brinkley, 31, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced Dec. 6 to two years in jail, after being convicted in a jury trial of aggravated animal cruelty, in connection with an incident that occurred in Saratoga Springs in 2017. 

POLICE

Ivan M. Erchak, age 44, of Saratoga Springs was charged Dec. 6 with felony burglary, six misdemeanor counts petit larceny, two misdemeanor counts criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal impersonation, criminal possession stolen property - three counts, unauthorized use of a vehicle and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. It is alleged Erchak was involved in numerous theft offenses on the west side of the city in October. 

Bailey M. Turney, age 22, Ballston Spa, was charged Dec. 5 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree- misdemeanor; following motor vehicle too closely; operating motor vehicle with suspended registration. 

Connor J. Pressley, age 19, Saratoga Springs, was charged Dec. 5 with criminal possession of marijuana third degree- felony. 

Joseph J. Sesselman, age 31, Saratoga Springs, was charged Dec. 4 with assault in the third degree/intent physical injury- misdemeanor; criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages property misdemeanor; criminal mischief fourth degree/prevent assistance- misdemeanor. 

Angela M. Grimaldi, age 49, South Glens Falls, was charged Dec. 4 with petit larceny- misdemeanor. 

James M. Caron Williams, age 24, Saratoga Springs, was charged Dec. 4 with refuse pre-screen test; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; passed a red traffic signal light. 

Sheila Ahearn, age 54, Saratoga Springs, was charged Dec. 4 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; failed to signal a turn.

George J. Carter Thompson, age 40, Saratoga Springs, was charged Dec. 4 with criminal obstruction of breathing/blood circulation- misdemeanor; assault in the third degree/recklessly- misdemeanor; criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages property- misdemeanor; menacing third- misdemeanor. 

Christopher J. Sprague, age 39, Saratoga Springs, was charged Dec. 2 with disorderly conduct; criminal tampering in the third degree- misdemeanor; harassment second degree - physical contact- 2 counts. 

Vanessa E. Valenzuela, age 38, Clifton Park, was charged Dec. 2 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree- misdemeanor; one-way street. 

Cynthia A. Riley, age 63, Schenectady, was charged Dec. 2 with following motor vehicle too closely; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 2nd/three or more suspensions- misdemeanor. 

Kamdyn J. Bishop, age 25, Saratoga Springs, was charged Dec. 1 with petit larceny- misdemeanor; criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor/ 3 counts; unlawful possession of marijuana. 

Amy N. Fogarty, age 37, Mechanicville, was charged Nov. 30 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. third degree- misdemeanor; following motor vehicle too closely. 

Tiana I. Robinson, age 18, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 30 with criminal possession of marijuana fifth degree- misdemeanor. 

Katie E. Barton, age 36, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 30 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle first degree- felony; failed to keep right; failed to signal a turn.

Cassandra R. Barden, age 33, Lake George, was charged Nov. 30 with assault in the second degree/prevent nurse- 2 counts/felony.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – A plan to develop a new six-story, 40-unit condominium complex is moving through the city’s Land Use boards this month.

The “Five-Three,” located at 53 Putnam St., would be constructed opposite the Saratoga Springs Public Library and feature one-bedroom and two-bedroom units at a price range of $400,00 to $800,000, said Laura Manning, of First Fairfield Associates. 

First Fairfield Associates created Putnam Resources LLC - the applicant for the Putnam Street project - and first began negotiating with owners 53 Putnam St. Inc. in 2013 to purchase and redevelop the property. The initial intent was to develop a performance venue with a food service component. However, the site was revealed to be contaminated from its earlier use as a dry cleaning facility as well as sustaining oil contamination from an offsite source, according to a project narrative provided to the city by AND Architecture - a design practice located in Saratoga Springs.  Due to the contamination, it was determined the existing structure could not be salvaged for re-use, and a revised program submitted by Putnam Resources calls for the six-story mixed-use structure. 

The 40 condominiums would occupy space between the second and sixth floors, inclusively. The ground-level floor would feature a shared kitchen to be used as an incubator for restaurant start-ups, and a rooftop green space would feature a lounge area for residents. Parking would be provided for residents through an agreement with a nearby lot, Manning said.

According to sketch plans filed with the city for review, the roof deck would start at 69 feet above the sidewalk and be fitted with a pergola (the top of which would rise to 78-feet above the sidewalk), and a stair tower – which would top-off at 84 feet, above ground-level.

The purchase and subsequent development of the site by Putnam Resources would follow demolition of the existing building on the site and environmental remediation via the state’s Brownfield Cleanup Program –an alternative to greenfield development and intended to remove some of the barriers to, and provide tax incentives for, the redevelopment of urban brownfields.

The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation - advocates for the preservation of Saratoga Springs’ architectural, cultural, and landscaped heritage - issued a statement to say that while it does not object to the demolition of the existing structure and supports a new use for the site, the Foundation has “significant concerns” about the project as it is currently proposed, specifically citing the proposed project height, scale, and mass, as well as claims that it is “not compatible with the neighboring structures and the character of the historic setting.”

The Five-Three project was placed on the respective agendas of both the Design Review Commission and the Planning Board this week regarding a sketch plan review for the mixed-use building proposal. 

Following all necessary approvals, the project would take about 14 months to develop at an estimated cost of as much as $30 million, Manning said.

In 2004, a six-level robotic parking garage and banquet facility to feature 189 vehicle spaces and street-level retail was targeted for the location. The proposal was created by Saratoga Parking and Banquet Inc., a group formed by Hank Kuczynski - who served as the deputy to former Mayor Kenneth Klotz, and John Franck, who is today the city's Finance Commissioner.

City Fire Chief Williams Announces Retirement

The city announced the retirement of Fire Department Chief Robert Williams, effective Feb. 28, 2019. Williams, a third-generation Saratoga Springs firefighter, was hired by the City of Saratoga Springs Fire Department on June 23, 1984 and has worked his way through the ranks and has served as Fire Chief since 2009.

“The City is going to miss the Chief tremendously,” Public Safety Commissioner Peter Martin said in a statement. “Bob has a tremendous ability to focus on details and develop broad ranging plans for improved fire and health safety in our city. Every Public Safety Commissioner who has served since Chief Williams joined the force has benefited from his knowledge and work ethic.”

“I have been honored to serve as member and most recently the Fire Chief for the Saratoga Springs Fire Department. It was my dream, as a child, to follow in the footsteps of my father, grandfather, and join the Saratoga Springs Fire Department,” Williams said.

Martin will conduct interviews of eligible candidates for the position of Fire Chief and announce the appointment at a future council meeting. The newly appointed Fire Chief will work alongside Chief Williams as the department transitions to a new leader until Williams’ departure. 

PILOT Plan for Proposed Affordable Housing Project on South Federal Street

The City Council proposed a resolution authorizing exemption and payment-in-lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement for the “Promenade” Saratoga Springs Affordable Housing Project, proposed for development on South Federal Street. The Saratoga Springs Housing Authority is the legal and record owner of the property. 

The proposed development calls for the construction of 63 affordable multi-family rental units - up to 18 units for citizens having household incomes less than or equal to 40 percent of AMI, up to 27 units for citizens having household incomes less than or equal to 60 percent of AMI, and up to 18 units for citizens having household incomes less than or equal to 80 percent of AMI.

AMI – or Area Median Income for Saratoga County is approximately $86,400. Forty percent of AMI or less for a family of four equates to having a household income of up to about $34,500; Up to about $51,800 for 60 percent or less AMI, and up to about $69,100 for 80 pe4rcent or less AMI.   

City Leaf Pick-Up Ongoing

In response to some residents’ concerns regarding leaf pick-ups in the city, DPW Commissioner Anthony “Skip” Scirocco said crews have already been through the city three or four times and do continue making the pick-ups.

Scirocco said residents with leaves should “containerize them” –  that is, place the leaves in a bag or put them in a container so that they’re not in the gutter, and that resident are free to call the DPW.  “We came through three or four times already and now as we get through the rest of the city, just call and we’ll put you on the list,” Scirocco said.

COURT

Joseph P. Landry, IV, 33, of Greenwich, was sentenced Nov. 30 to one year in jail, after pleading to felony DWI, in Saratoga. 

Brian S. McEnteggart, 25, of Mechanicville, pleaded Dec. 3 to felony grand larceny in the fourth-degree, in connection with an incident that occurred in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Feb. 19, 2019. 

POLICE

Stephen J. Miller, 39, of Gansevoort, was charged Dec. 3 with abortion second-degree, a felony, and reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor. Miller is accused of “repeatedly and aggressively” pushing on the abdomen of a 26-week pregnant female using his closed fists, in an attempt to cause a miscarriage, according to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office. He was charged following an investigation into a domestic incident in the town of Northumberland. The female victim was treated medically and at this time the unborn child is not believed to have been harmed in the incident, according to authorities. 

Jason M. McMahon, age 41, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 29 with two felony counts grand larceny fourth-degree/credit card, and two misdemeanor counts petit larceny.

Eugene E. Bessette, age 26, Cambridge, was charged Nov. 29 with circumvent interlock-court order-operation without device – misdemeanor; failed to stop at stop sign. 

James J. Altamirano, age 37, Ballston Spa, was charged Nov. 28 with criminal trespass third degree/building or property – misdemeanor. 

Shakema D. Wilmot, age 28, Ballston Spa, was charged Nov. 27 with assault in the third degree/ intent physical injury -misdemeanor; criminal possession of a weapon third degree – felony; attempted assault in the second degree – felony. 

Kirk O’Brian Wright, age 35, Ballston Spa, was charged Nov. 27 with assault in the second degree/deadly weapon – felony; criminal possession of a weapon third degree – felony; menacing second degree – misdemeanor. 

Sean F. Early, age 36, Fort Edward, was charged Nov. 27 with refusal of pre-screen test, driving while intoxicated – misdemeanor; parking violations. 

Yuqi Wang, age 19, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 27 with criminal possession of controlled substance fifth-degree – a felony.

Sebastian P. Mabb, age 26, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 26 with aggravated harassment in the second degree – misdemeanor. 

Maxwell H. Brown, age 20, Lake George, was charged Nov. 26 with petit larceny- misdemeanor.

William M. Allen, 24, of Greenfield, was charged Nov. 28 with petit larceny – a misdemeanor. It is alleged Allen stole property out of multiple cars in the towns of Wilton and Malta. 

Raphaella M. Saunders, age 25, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 19 with unlawfully dealing with a child first degree- misdemeanor.

James J. Ryan, age 59, Ballston Spa, was charged Nov. 19 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; unsafe lane change; fail to keep right. 

Jarvis L. Cresporosa, age 30, Halfmoon, was charged Nov. 18 with harassment second degree - physical contact. 

Victoria St. Clair, age 71, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 18 with petit larceny- misdemeanor. 

Ryan W. Boyce, age 26, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 17 with criminally using drug paraphernalia second degree- misdemeanor; aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd/three or more suspensions- misdemeanor. 

John P. Boswell, age 53, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 17 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; equipment (mufflers/exhaust system). 

Augustus A. Balsamo, age 35, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 16 with resisting arrest- misdemeanor; harassment second degree - physical contact; criminal contempt second degree/disobedience- misdemeanor. 

Cynthia M. Cooper, age 55, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 16 with stalking in the fourth degree- misdemeanor/ 2 counts; eavesdropping- felony.

SARATOGA SPRINGS – The cost to reconstruct and restore City Hall is anticipated to carry an approximate $11.2 million price tag, city officials said this week. Insurance proceeds are expected to cover roughly half of the total project cost.

City Hall was rendered unusable following a mid-August lightning strike after a drainage pipe on the roof was struck and melted, causing heavy rains to pour into the building which has served as the center of Saratoga Springs’ government since 1871.

The plans call for a new public elevator, which is not covered by insurance, to be installed in the building - with the existing elevator designated for employee use – the relocation and re-design of city department offices, and an audio/visual booth, concession area and entryway lobby installed in an upgraded Music Hall on the building’s top floor. Costs associated with the Music Hall and new lobby are estimated at $1 million.

Additional changes include state-mandated renovations of city courts and a new energy compliant heating and cooling system for all of City Hall. Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan said there are rebates available from National Grid to help offset the utility costs on the back-end, and that the improvements will help reduce utility costs in the future.

MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) systems are expected to account for about $1.4 million of the overall costs, court-related development costs account for just over $1 million, and cost of the new four-stop elevator set at about $200,000.    

The work is slated to take place in two phases, explained DPW Commissioner Anthony “Skip” Scirocco. The job of asbestos abatement, which will take four to six weeks to complete, will be put to bid in early December and awarded prior to the end of the calendar year, Scirocco said. The construction renovation phase of the job is anticipated to be put to bid in March, with construction to commence in the spring. The council is hopeful City Hall will be set to re-open by late 2019.     

Since the building’s closure, city employees have mainly been relocated to the southside city recreation facility on Vanderbilt Avenue. Saratoga Springs City Court sessions have been moved to 65 South Broadway, in the Lincoln bath building house, and public city meetings are currently staged at the Saratoga Springs City Center on Broadway.

The building’s ground floor will largely be occupied by the public safety department; The first floor will be comprised of the Mayor’s office, City Clerks office, Finance and Accounts departments and City Council room – all of which have traditionally been located on the first floor, as well as the addition of the DPW offices.  Floor two will showcase the city court, as well as house offices of the city attorneys, the human resources department and the public safety commissioner and deputy commissioner. The top floor will feature the Music Hall and lobby, as well as several building department and Land Use offices. The existing Saratoga Supreme Court Law Library will be relocated elsewhere. 

Finance Commissioner Michele Madigan, who this week brought to the council the proposed $47.1 million general operating budget for 2019, said the impact of the lightning strike was most evidently felt in the City's Capital Budget – with $5.3 million of the 2019 Capital Budget attributable to the reconstruction and restoration of City Hall. “The remaining $5.9 million for the reconstruction of City Hall will come from capital already bonded, city reserves, and insurance proceeds,” Madigan said. “The lightning strike at City Hall on August 17 resulted in a 2019 City Budget process unlike any I've experienced before.”

The proposed general operating budget for 2019 shows an increase of roughly 2.1 percent, or $960,000, over the 2018 budget. Contractual wages and new hires account for the bulk of the year-over-year change, with personnel up 4.4 percent in total in 2019, said Madigan, adding that the city is in excellent financial health.

GREENFIELD – Photographs and figurines line the shelves of the room accented by a wide assortment of blazers and blouses, masks and uniforms, framed posters, furniture and one particularly wicked looking doll that sits beneath a wall hanging that reads: Chinga.

The collection of items, many of them iconic one-of-a-kind, are related specifically to “The X-Files” television series. It is Jim Thornton’s passion-project.

“The X-Files,” featuring Gillian Anderson as Special Agent Dana Scully, and David Duchovny as Special Agent Fox Mulder, debuted in September 1993. Thornton has been a fan since the first episode was broadcast.

“I loved the show and thought: wow, I’d like to own something from it, but back in ’93, ’94, there wasn’t a lot of stuff out there,” Thornton says.  A mid-90’s visit to a store called That’s Entertainment at Crossgates Mall brought him in contact with X-Files trading cards. Thus began his collecting. “That’s when I first thought: I own a piece of the show,” he says.  

Thornton has collected items related to the show ever since. “I have commercial stuff, I have promotional stuff, I have things given out to crew members as gifts, screen-used props, wardrobe,” he says. “It’s hard to pick my favorite, but one of them would probably have to be from the (1998) episode ‘Chinga.’ It was (co-)written by Stephen King and there’s a doll in it that the lead actress throws in the microwave and it burns it all up. I have that doll.”  

Thornton grew up a fan of the 1970’s show “Kolchak: The Night Stalker,” watching the show with his brother. “That got my hooked on the horror genre and when the X-Files came out, that brought me right back to the Kolchak days, it sucked me right in,” says Thornton, who is a professional painter by day. His kids, he says, for the most part think the collection is “pretty cool.” His wife, Kelly Anthony, is an office administrator.

“I do most of the collecting. If my wife sees stuff, she lets me know. She supports me a lot,” Thornotn says.

“The whole point is to preserve this part of American television history as much as possible,” says Kelly Anthony. “It’s a part of our life. When we find a piece, it’s like: it’s found its forever home. It’s not going anywhere.”

Among the one-of-a-kind items are props used on the show, obtained through the couple’s networking skills. “We’ve acquired some pieces from one of the prop-masters who had worked on the show when it was still up in Vancouver.”

The first five years of the show’s run, which was filmed in Vancouver, are among the toughest pieces to find.  

“The Vancouver years are the absolute hardest stuff to get.  Some of the wardrobe from the first five years is on a dream list. It’s out there, somewhere. If anyone’s got any contacts, or any stuff: let us know.” 

COURT

Stephen M. Allen, Jr., 31, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced Nov. 26 to two years in state prison, after pleading to attempted criminal sale of a controlled substance, in Saratoga Springs, and one year in jail – concurrent with the previous charge – after pleading to DWAI and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, in Ballston. 

Matthew P. Delucca, 31, of Fort Edward, was sentenced Nov. 19 to time served and five years of probation, after pleading to disseminating indecent materials to minors. 

Julie A. Gailor, 52, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded Nov. 19 to felony arson. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 14, 2019. 

Leon G. Nadeau, 33, of Burnt Hills, pleaded Nov. 19 to attempted making a terroristic threat, in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 14, 2019. 

John S. Garnsey, 37, of Gansevoort, pleaded Nov. 19 to attempted burglary, a felony, in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 28, 2019. 

Wayne A. Rice, 40, of Northumberland, pleaded Nov. 19 to criminal possession of a controlled substance, in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 29, 2019.

Jerold C. Kelleher, 49, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded Nov. 20 to criminal sale of a controlled substance, in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 15, 2019. 

Michael S. Andrews, 22, of Saratoga Springs, pleaded Nov. 20 to criminal sale of a controlled substance, in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 15, 2019. 

POLICE 

Joseph J. Deschenes, age 47, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 24 with criminal trespass third degree/building or property- misdemeanor. 

William H. Clark, age 29, Schenectady, was charged Nov. 24 with criminal impersonation second degree/impersonating another- misdemeanor. 

Randy L. Jones, age 51, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 23 with criminal trespass third degree/building or property-misdemeanor. 

Jason M. McMahon, age 41, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 23 with petit larceny- misdemeanor. 

Ashley F. Schaal, age 33, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 23 with grand larceny fourth degree/credit card- felony; petit larceny- misdemeanor; criminal possession stolen property fifth degree- misdemeanor.

Benjamin N. Hernandez, age 23, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 22 with criminal mischief in the third degree- felony 

Robert M. Brown, age 27, Lake George, was charged Nov. 22 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; fail to keep right. 

Cheyenne N. Peters, age 22, Charlton, was charged Nov. 22 with one-way street; aggravated unlicensed operation third degree- misdemeanor; driving while intoxicated-misdemeanor. 

Nathan W. Preston, age 36, Johnson City, was charged Nov. 21 with driving while intoxicated- 2nd offense- felony; criminal mischief fourth degree/intent damages prop- misdemeanor; attempted assault in the 3rd degree//intent physical injury- misdemeanor; resisting arrest- misdemeanor; refuse pre-screen test; harassment second degree - physical contact; following motor vehicle too closely; unsafe backing; leaving the scene of an auto accident (property). Preston was charged after being involved in a property damage accident. 

Katheryn A. Fasano, age 44, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 20 with criminal mischief fourth degree- misdemeanor; criminal contempt second degree/disobedience- misdemeanor. 

Megan R. Cochrane, age 34, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 20 with harassment second degree - physical contact. 

Kariann P. Morris, age 48, Ballston Lake, was charged Nov. 20 with criminal contempt second degree/disobedience- misdemeanor. 

Emily B. Burke, age 28, Galway, was charged Nov. 20 with aggravated unlicensed operation third degree- misdemeanor; following motor vehicle too closely; leaving the scene of an auto accident (property). 

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Josey Kakaty joined a “caravan of moms” earlier this month on a trip to the Texas-Mexico border where she hoped to gain first-person insight of activities occurring at one of this country’s southern boundaries.

 “The whole purpose of this event was to witness and interview people who have been affected by undocumented or illegal immigrants crossing the border,” says Kakaty, a mother of three who lives in Saratoga. She was joined by her 15-year-old son on the journey. The caravan migrants, who are largely from Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, are fleeing their native lands to escape violence and political upheaval.

“If you listen to just what the media says, I think the whole truth is not presented. We need to have some more awareness. I wanted to see with my own eyes.”

One of the lead sponsoring groups for the trip was Moms for America, a non-profit educational corporation which explains that its purpose is to teach families how to nurture a love and understanding of liberty within their own homes.  The purpose of the trip to the border, said MFA President Kimberly Fletcher: “to meet with families who experience the impact of illegal crossings first-hand, in an effort to share their stories with the American people.”

“It was a full day of travel and we spent two days of going to different locations,” Kakaty says. “We went to an elementary school that was close to the border – Rio Grande Valley, Texas – where the entire perimeter of the school was surrounded by fencing. We also walked to the border and got close to the Rio Grande River just to see what kind of barriers we do have set up.

“There was barbed wire fencing and somewhat of a wall. You keep hearing about this wall – or lack thereof – so it was interesting to witness what’s there. It looks like rusted steel, maybe about 15 feet tall, but this was only 100 feet of it, and then the river just had some barbed wire fencing, no taller than five or six feet,” she says.     

“This was an organized group and I think they asked me to go along because I was on a Fox News panel for Security Moms, so I already had a public voice in this matter,” Kakaty says. The Security Moms are featured on segments of the broadcast network that showcases “a panel of moms” discussing timely issues with a host. 

“The ‘caravan’ is what prompted it and I was there to learn and get my own perspective,” Kakaty says.

The “Caravan”

Across the U.S. border, more than 2,000 people arrived in Tijuana this week, with another 7,000 not far behind, according to Mexican authorities. And that doesn’t include the roughly 3,000 migrants already in Tijuana seeking legal entry into the United States, according to The Washington Post.

“I don’t know what the solution is, but I believe we do need a wall. We have nothing to protect us right now. We live in a bubble in Saratoga, we’re not affected on a daily basis, but it is in our backyard,” Kakaty says. “This is America and we should all be safe. We welcome immigrants, clearly, this is a land of immigrants, but we have a lot of new social issues we have to address and enforcing our security will help with that. It’s a security matter, protecting our national security, that’s the main concern.”

President Donald Trump recently ordered 5,200 active-duty troops to join about 2,100 National Guard forces sent earlier this year to bolster the border, according to Military Times.com, an independent news source which focuses on news and information for service members and their families. The active-duty troops are limited in what function they may perform, however, under federal law, which restricts military engagement in law enforcement on American soil.

The president has also been accused by some of ramping-up the rhetoric strictly for political purposes. For three weeks leading up to Election Day, President Trump posted nearly four dozen tweets mentioning the U.S. border – a number of times specifically referencing the approach of the migrant "caravan" – a practice mostly non-existent since the election. Trump did resume posting about the matter briefly this past week, tweeting that “illegal Immigrants” asking for U.S. asylum will be detained or turned away and that “the U.S. is ill-prepared for this invasion, and will not stand for it…Go Home!” 

The timing corresponds with a Trump-issued proclamation - “Addressing Mass Migration Through the Southern Border of the United States” which institutes new rules for those seeking asylum by insisting “aliens” must test their eligibility for admission into the country at an official entry port, rather than presenting themselves to Border Patrol after crossing into the country illegally. The American Civil Liberties Union has since filed a lawsuit to challenge the president’s new asylum ban, claiming it violates federal law, which recognizes the right of people to seek asylum regardless of where and how they entered the country.

After more than a month on the move, the caravan of migrants from Central America has come to a halt just a few yards from the border wall that divides Mexico and the United States, the New York Times reported this week. It could take several months for the claims of migrants seeking asylum to be heard at ports of entry. 

Kakaty says she visited with mothers whose children were killed by people who entered the U.S. illegally and shares the natural considerations of any mom, regardless of where they live.

“There’s a concern for moms and children on both sides of the border. The people who are coming, they are in jeopardy too, for so many things, including human trafficking,” Kakaty says.

Before even reaching the U.S. border, migrants making an often long and perilous journey suffer assaults, robberies, and abductions – the latter as many as 20,000 each year - by criminal gangs, as well as becoming victims of extortion by police and immigration officials in Mexico, says Salil Shetty, who served as Secretary General for the human rights organization, Amnesty International, from 2010 to 2018. “Health professionals report that as many as six in 10 migrant women and girls are raped on the journey,” writes Shetty, “and activists repeatedly raise concerns that abducted women and girls are vulnerable to trafficking.”

“One thing we saw at the border, it was just horrific; they call it ‘the rape tree,’” Kakaty says. “Some of the stories were just appalling.”

The Moms group visited a local dentist who told them she caters to many clients living in the U.S. without legal permission but who nonetheless are able to obtain medical coverage for dental work, and with local women who say they sleep with a shotgun under their bed, because, they say, people come into their homes at night.

The group also visited a bridge, which has a walkway above ground, where people with their documents in order are legally checked in and allowed to cross the border. Below the bridge, strands of barbed wire cling to posts spiked into the earth. It is here where the group witnessed a border patrol apprehension of a man and woman who tried to mingle in with the visiting group. “We had about 35 people there. One of the women let the border patrol know (about the people attempting to mingle in). They went to hide in the bushes and were trying to call someone, and they were apprehended.

“What is the impact on US citizens who live close to the border? They say the border is supposed to be the safest place, but it’s not what we understand by talking to people there,” Kakaty says.

“The bottom line is: illegal immigration is illegal. I’m a proud immigrant and my family emigrated here (from Sicily) and we came the right way. We used the right process. Why is there all of a sudden a discussion of having people come here not legally?” she says.

“We know these things happen; we just need to create an awareness, because it’s just not working the way it is. I’m glad that I went. I think it’s time we are informed and learn on our own. We need to educate ourselves to know what’s really going on.” 

COURT

Erbelth Centeno, age 26, of Schenectady, was sentenced Nov. 13 to five years in state priosn, after pleading to attempted robbery in the second-degree, in Ballston. 

Brice L. Dobson, age 40, of South Glens Falls, was sentenced Nov. 13 to one year in jail, after pleading to criminal contempt in the first-degree, in Moreau. 

Nicholas B. Angelo, age 30, of Amsterdam, was sentenced Nov. 14 to eight years in state prion, after pleading to robbery in the first-degree, in Saratoga Springs.

Corey A. Saxton, age 32, of Greenwich, was sentenced Nov. 14 to 3.5 years in state prison, after pleading to attempted robbery in the second-degree, in Saratoga Springs. 

Jeffrey D. Hulett, age 26, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced to six months jail, after pleading to criminal contempt in the first-degree, in Malta. 

Steven Welch, age 35, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced to five years of probation, after pleading to criminal contempt in the first-degree. 

Robert L. Giroux, age 49, of Gansevoort, pleaded Nov. 15 to felony DWI, in Moreau. Sentencing scheduled for Jan. 10, 2019. 

POLICE

Kristianna Olson, age 33, of Greenfield, was charged in Saratoga Springs on Nov. 12 with being a fugitive from justice, and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh-degree. She is alleged to have been in possession of a quantity of methamphetamines. According to police, the investigation also determined she has outstanding felony warrants from Sarasota, Florida for drug possession.  Olson was sent to Saratoga County Jail in lieu of bail, to await extradition.

Christopher W. Crumble, age 23, Saratoga Springs, was charged on Nov. 12 with assault in the second degree/intent physical injury- felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance- felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance – felony.  It is alleged Crumble assaulted a 30-year-old male while on Caroline Street, by repeatedly punching him in the head and face. The assault caused several facial fractures that required emergency medical treatment, according to police. Crumble was found to allegedly be in possession of over 4 grams of powdered cocaine, which lead to the narcotic’s charges. He was sent to Saratoga County Jail in lieu of $30,000 cash, or $60,000 bond.

Jason P. Alcorace, age 43, Porters Corners, was charged Nov. 15 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree- misdemeanor. 

Ernesto Bautistajuarez, age 24, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 15 with criminal mischief fourth degree/intent to damage property – misdemeanor. 

James J. Hall, age 26, Stillwater, was charged Nov. 13 with operating motor vehicle with suspended registration; speeding - posted zone; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree- misdemeanor.

Thomas J. Greiner, age 28, Watervliet, was charged on Nov. 12 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree- misdemeanor; speeding - posted zone. 

Lauren J. Demetreus, age 23, Malta, was charged on Nov. 11 with driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; following motor vehicle too closely.

Marcus T. Jackson, age 29, Saratoga Springs, was charged on Nov. 11 with criminal contempt second degree/ disobedience- misdemeanor; aggravated family offense- felony. 

Shawn M. Johnson, age 36, Saratoga Springs, was charged on Nov. 9 with criminal trespass third degree/building or property- misdemeanor.

COURT

Sam Donadio, age 66, of Broadalbin, was sentenced Nov. 5 to 30 days in jail and five years of probation and ordered to pay $152,086.61 in restitution. That amount is equal to the amount Donadio, president of Power Pallet Recycling, unlawfully withheld from Stewart’s Shops Corporation over a three-year period, Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen said in a statement. Donadio under-reported the weight of items which he recycled on behalf of Stewart’s by approximately 20 percent. 

Jennifer A. Gray, age 26, and Cassidy A. Gary, 19, both of Moreau, were each charged with making a punishable false written statement – a misdemeanor; Gray was additionally charged with falsely reporting an incident in the third-degree. The charges are in connection with a report made to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office of a child abduction that allegedly occurred at Wal Mart, in Wilton. Authorities said an investigation determined that the alleged incident did not occur. 

Tara M. Belak, age 40, of Corinth, pleaded Nov. 7 to felony grand larceny in Saratoga Springs. Sentencing scheduled Jan. 30. 

Kevin S. Cuva, age 45, of Saratoga Springs, was sentenced to 1.5 to 3 years in state prison after pleading to aggravated family offense- felony.   

Nicholas M. Hall, age 21, of Ballston Spa, was sentenced Nov. 7 to 1 to 3 years in state prison, after pleading to use of a child in a sexual performance- felony. 

POLICE

Johnathan L. Brown, age 20, Schenectady, was charged Nov. 9 with criminal possession of a forged instrument second- felony; false impersonation- misdemeanor. 

Nicholas R. Hanks, age 31, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 9 with passed a red traffic signal light; aggravated unlicensed operation third degree- misdemeanor. 

Gerard F. Parisi, age 47, Schenectady, was charged Nov. 8 with one way street; failure to signal turn, change lanes, parked; refusal of  pre-screen test; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor. 

Elliott Q. Ruggles, age 26, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 8 with driving while intoxicated- felony; circumvent interlock-court order-operate without device- misdemeanor; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle- 1st degree/under influence- felony; one-way street. 

Randy L. Jones, age 51, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 6 with disorderly conduct; unlawful possession of marijuana. 

Jason M. McMahon, age 41, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 6 with petit larceny- misdemeanor. 

Nathan M. Hewitt, age 33, Queensbury, was charged Nov. 6 with petit larceny- misdemeanor; attempted petit larceny- misdemeanor; criminal possession stolen property fifth degree- misdemeanor.

Megan M. Demasireland, age 43, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 6 with failure to keep right- 2 counts; refusal of pre-screen test; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; aggravated driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor. 

Jimmy C. Sanchez, age 25, Gloversville, was charged Nov. 4 with equipment (rear license plate light); unlawful possession of marijuana. 

Kreaton M. Crouse, age 26, Gloversville, was charged Nov. 4 with unlawful possession of marijuana; equipment (rear lights) manufactured after January 1952; driving while intoxicated- misdemeanor; criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th- misdemeanor. 

Nathan E. Deso, age 32, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 4 with aggravated unlicensed operation third degree- misdemeanor; unsafe lane change. Deso was charged after being involved in a property damage accident. 

Matthew F. Rickard, age 27, Saratoga Springs, was charged Nov. 3 with criminal mischief fourth degree/intention to damage property- misdemeanor. 

Jamie L. Brundige, age 33, Ballston Spa, was charged Nov. 2 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle third degree- misdemeanor; equipment (vehicle manufactured after 1952/two stop lamps).