Spring Valley’s former chief building inspector, the former Clarkstown Superintendent of Highways, has filed legal notice to sue Rockland’s District Attorney and others in New York State Supreme Court. That’s according to The Journal News. Wayne Ballard had charges against him for filing a false report with the state in relation to the fatal Spring Valley Adult Home fire, dismissed during his trial in February. Ballard reportedly filed the notice of claim with the Rockland County Clerk’s Office earlier this week to sue Rockland D-A Tom Walsh, his prosecutors and a detective, Spring Valley police, and the county government. Ballard is claiming false arrest, malicious prosecution, prosecutorial misconduct, police misconduct, and civil rights violations. Walsh didn’t comment. The Evergreen fire two years ago killed a resident and volunteer firefighter, 35 year-old Jared Lloyd.
Breaking News
Mahwah Woman Arrested in Connection with Fatal Ramapo Crash in January
A Mahwah woman was arrested yesterday and charged in connection with a fatal accident in Airmont last January. Ramapo Police say 41-year-old Sherlyne Bazile faces Manslaughter, Reckless Driving and other charges for the incident that claimed the life of an 85 year-old Montebello man. Police say the crash occurred on January 28th around 10am at the intersection of Airmont Road and Route 59. Three cars were involved in the crash, with each driver needing medical attention at area hospitals. Police say neither alcohol nor drugs were suspected in the crash. Bazile was arraigned and released without bail, she is scheduled to be in Airmont Justice Court at an unknown date.
NY State Budget Passes, Rockland Secures Education Funding
Ten separate budget bills were voted on last night and New York’s $229 billion spending plan appears to be a mix of wins and losses for the governor. Rockland State Senator Bill Weber told “The Morning Show” yesterday there’s lots of great things in the budget for Rockland…
Area lawmakers also liked that the governor’s controversial housing issue was dropped from the budget. Published reports say it includes a tax credit for young families, a ban on natural gas hookups for new construction, and it avoids broad-based personal income tax increases. The deadline passed more than a month ago.
Ramapo Police Arrest Hillcrest Man in Domestic Violence Incident
A 58 year-old Hillcrest man was arrested late Sunday and charged in connection with a domestic assault. Ramapo Police say when they arrived on-scene, a 57 year-old woman said the man choked her and shoved her against a wall. Police say the suspect indicated the fight started when the woman refused to hold a flashlight for him. He was arrested and charged with Obstruction, Criminal Mischief, and Harassment. He was arraigned in Ramapo Court and bail was set at $10,000. An order of protection was issued, and the suspect was sent to the Rockland County Jail. Ramapo Police remind victims of domestic abuse, or if you know someone who is a victim, for assistance and support, call Rockland County’s Center for Safety and Change at 845-634-3344 or visit their website, CenterForSafetyAndChange.org. In emergencies, always dial 911 first for immediate help.
Brush Fires Might Have Been Worse Had They Extended Further South Along CSX Tracks
The head of Rockland’s Fire and Emergency Services says it’s a good thing the brush fires along the CSX railroad tracks last month didn’t do more damage. Chief Mike Begbie of Haverstraw initially had two large fires going, one was near Simenovsky Drive in Haverstraw…
Director of Fire and Emergency Services Chris Kear says it’s a good thing the fire didn’t go further south past Congers…
Rockland’s sheriff and federal authorities are reviewing the incidents to see if criminal charges are warranted.