New York’s move toward an all-electric future has been abruptly put on hold after Governor Kathy Hochul agreed to delay the rollout of the state’s landmark building-electrification mandate. The reversal undermines her own climate promises on legislation she supported. The law, passed in 2023 and billed as a cornerstone of the state’s emissions-reduction strategy, was supposed to take effect January 1st. It would have required most newly constructed residential buildings under seven stories to use electric heating and appliances, with larger buildings joining the mandate in 2029. Existing buildings were exempt and carve-outs existed for facilities such as hospitals and restaurants. But on Wednesday, attorneys for the state informed the court that the law would be suspended while an appeals case proceeds. A coalition of unions and trade groups are challenging the measure after losing an initial ruling in July. Instead of defending the law’s timeline, the Hochul administration agreed to pause implementation until the lawsuit is resolved. Environmental organizations, already angered by the state's recent approval of the Williams-Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) gas pipeline, condemned Hochul’s decision as another retreat from climate commitments. The pipeline, which will run under New York Harbor, had been rejected multiple times over environmental concerns before being revived. Eric Weltman of Food & Water Watch blasted the move, warning that, “New Yorkers will pay a terrible price for Hochul's betrayal of our needs and interests: higher energy bills, dirty water, polluted air and a more dangerous climate. Hochul's betrayal further locks New York into a costly reliance on dirty fossil fuels, promoting fracking, while threatening our health, our communities, and our environment.” New York City Comptroller Brad Lander warned that the state’s decision sends the wrong message about its climate priorities. He said Hochul appears to be signaling that environmental commitments are the first to be sacrificed, calling the decision*“deeply disappointing.” The governor’s office defended the move as a temporary procedural step. Senior communications advisor Ken Lovett stated that Hochul is still committed to the policy, arguing the pause will “reduce regulatory uncertainty” while the appeal plays out. He said, “The governor remains committed to the all-electric-buildings law and believes this action will help the state defend it... Governor Hochul remains resolved to providing more affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for New Yorkers.” Still, even members of Hochul’s own party expressed concern that the delay would embolden opponents of New York’s climate goals and slow critical transitions away from fossil fuels. Meanwhile, Hochul’s political rivals seized on the announcement. Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who recently launched a campaign for governor, accused Hochul of election-year maneuvering, stating that the delay is nothing more than “a cynical political 'pause' so she can screw New Yorkers with higher prices after the election.” Stefanik said New Yorkers have seen this strategy before, comparing the move to Hochul’s pre-election messaging on congestion pricing, declaring she “thinks New Yorkers are stupid and won't notice this desperate political ploy.” Promotional Content Hochul Plays Politics and Flip-flops on All Electric Mandate to Appease Voters

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is already making waves, and not in ways that reassure those worried about the city’s economy. Instead of focusing on the financial and public-safety crises facing New York, Mamdani has turned his attention to Starbucks, calling on New Yorkers to stop buying from the coffee chain while baristas remain on strike. On Thursday evening, Mamdani announced on X that he would not support the company during the labor dispute, writing, “Starbucks workers across the country are on an Unfair Labor Practices strike, fighting for a fair contract. While workers are on strike, I won't be buying any Starbucks, and I'm asking you to join us.” His push for a boycott comes as Starbucks employees launch an open-ended work stoppage timed to coincide with Red Cup Day, one of the company’s biggest sales events of the year. Historically, the event is responsible for massive customer turnout and record-breaking revenue. According to the union, about 1,000 workers at 65 stores walked off the job when the strike began Thursday with the possibility of ballooning to more than 500 locations if negotiations remain stalled. Starbucks’ latest earnings report lists 16,864 U.S. stores, meaning the strike affects only a small fraction of operations. Unionized locations represent roughly 4% of Starbucks’ retail workforce – about 9,500 baristas – a Starbucks spokesperson noted. Contract talks have been frozen for months and the strike comes shortly after the company announced a restructuring that resulted in the closure of more than 600 U.S. stores. Despite the disruption, Starbucks says the walkout didn’t dent business. A spokesperson told Business Insider that “more than 99% of our coffeehouses remain open” and added that Red Cup Day broke company records once again: "our partners delivered the strongest Reusable Red Cup Day in company history … the biggest sales day ever for the company.” Mamdani’s public alignment with the strike marks one of his earliest signals about how he plans to use his platform once in power. Rather than prioritizing concerns such as affordability, crime, or New York’s looming budget shortfall, he appears eager to take national stances on private-sector disputes. The incoming mayor, a Democratic socialist and longtime labor activist, ended his message with a slogan aimed at rallying supporters: “No contract, no coffee.” Promotional Content Mamdani Urges Starbucks Boycott as Workers Strike

New York’s already-strained business environment may become even more hostile as Governor Kathy Hochul is now considering raising corporate taxes to deal with a looming budget gap, according to a person familiar with internal discussions. The possibility has alarmed business owners and fiscal analysts who argue that a tax increase would accelerate the ongoing exodus of employers fleeing the state’s high-cost economy. The governor’s office has not announced any formal plan, but the source said Hochul’s team is preparing for major financial uncertainty due to expected federal cuts. “The state is on strong financial footing today but much of the budget outcome at the start of next year is going to be largely dependent on what the federal government does and we're watching that closely and trying to plan accordingly,” the source explained to Reuters. Even so, companies across New York are bracing for the possibility that Hochul could move toward adopting one of the steepest corporate tax increases in modern state history. The source did not specify a target rate, but New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has pushed publicly for raising the top state corporate tax rate from 7.25% to 11.5%, a proposal widely criticized by business groups as economically destructive. The state is staring down a $34.3 billion budget deficit through the 2029 fiscal year. The situation has deteriorated rapidly, with the New York State Comptroller warning that the combined effects of the deficit and federal decisions have pushed New York into conditions “not seen since the 2009 economic crisis.” Despite that, the governor has repeatedly insisted she is not in crisis mode. Her own budget director, Blake Washington, told reporters recently that New York was in “a good spot financially,” adding that a tax increase was “the last thing on my mind.” Yet Hochul met for 90 minutes with Mamdani on Thursday and the readout of the meeting underscored just how volatile the state’s fiscal and political landscape has become. Their discussion included federal threats, budget pressure, and concerns about Washington’s posture toward New York. The readout stated, “The Governor and the Mayor-elect discussed the possibility that the federal government would surge ICE and/or National Guard to New York City.” Hochul and Mamdani also agreed, according to the summary, that such a federal deployment “would not improve public safety.” The readout added that state officials briefed Mamdani on preparedness measures if the federal government targets New York. Adding another layer of unpredictability, President Donald Trump - who endorsed former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo’s run for mayor years earlier - has stated he will likely deny significant federal aid to New York “other than the very minimum as required” following Mamdani’s election. With federal support in question, critics say Hochul is now poised to lean heavily on state businesses to fill the growing financial hole. Although Mamdani campaigned on a sweeping affordability agenda that included raising taxes on corporations and the wealthy, his spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment on whether he is actively pushing Hochul to adopt the corporate tax increase. New York already ranks among the least competitive business climates in the nation and employers warn that an additional tax burden would push more companies and jobs out of the state. With population declining, fewer taxpayers, and rising operating costs, economists say the state may be approaching a breaking point—all under Hochul's leadership. Promotional Content Hochul Wants Tax Hike that Will Drive Even More Businesses Out of New York

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:45am on November 14th from school officials at Henrietta G. Lewis Campus School in Lockport after reports of an overdose. A 15-year-old male was found unconscious. His lips were turning blue but he was breathing. It was stated during the call that he did regain partial consciousness. Emergency medical was requested and transported the 15-year-old to ECMC. There were also three other students being questioned by the principal. The principal wanted all three of them evaluated for suspected drug usage. All students were becoming aggressive and uncooperative, refusing to engage with any medical testing. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: 15-year-old Student Found Unconscious After Overdose at Niagara County School

A Buffalo man who severely injured a small dog earlier this year is now awaiting sentencing after entering a guilty plea in Erie County Court. Deandre Rogers, 30, stood before State Supreme Court Justice Paul B. Wojtaszek on Thursday and admitted guilt to one count of attempted aggravated cruelty to animals, a Class A misdemeanor under New York State Law. The charge stems from a disturbing case that left a 9-year-old Chihuahua with life-threatening injuries. The attack occurred on May 10th when Rogers intentionally struck the dog - an older female Chihuahua named Bella - inside a residence on the 200 block of Geary Street. Authorities confirmed the injuries were severe. Bella was rushed to BluePearl Pet Hospital in Cheektowaga where veterinarians treated her for skull fractures and other significant trauma before she was transferred to the SPCA Serving Erie County for continued rehabilitation. Following her recovery, Bella was adopted by a new owner. Rogers, who remains free on his own recognizance while he awaits sentencing, could receive up to 364 days in jail when he returns to court on January 23rd, 2026. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office said it will push for the maximum sentence as well as a lifetime “securing order” preventing Rogers from possessing or caring for animals. A temporary order is already in place. District Attorney Michael J. Keane praised the efforts of the SPCA Serving Erie County and the officers who handled the case, noting the contributions of SPCA Chief Officer Lindsey Wood along with Officers Meghan Giles and Tyler Robertson. Promotional Content Man Admits to Violent and Evil Attack on Chihuahua, Faces a Year Behind Bars

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 10am on November 13th after reports of a welfare check at the Falls View Motel on Niagara Falls Boulevard in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - a care coordinator - stated that a male was sending her unusual messages, including about a missing 16-year-old female Arianna Miller. The male was also texting her about having weapons on him. She is aware from previous involvement with him that he has several boxes that have tactical tools written on them. He also has a bulletproof vest. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested or brought to a mental health facility for treatment. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Police Respond After Reports Male has Weapons, Bullet Proof Vest and Possibly a Missing Teen

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 2:10am on November 14th after reports of a burglary on the 1200 block of Military Road in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - a male - stated that his ex-fiance entered his home while he was gone and stole several items. He has everything on camera. The ex- fiancé proceeded to threaten him with physical harm. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the ex- fiancé was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Ex-fiancé Breaks Into Home and Steals Several Items, Becomes Violent

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:25am on November 13th after reports of reckless endangerment on the 2600 block of Porter Road in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that a male known to her (unknown relationship) - referred to as Paul Demunda on the audio - drove into her car with his grey Lexus, which has front-end damage to it. The male then threw a bottle of tequila and a bat at her. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if Demunda was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Unhinged Male Intentionally Drives Into Woman's Car, Throws Bottle of Tequila at Her

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 5:20pm on November 13th after reports of a medical emergency on Lower Mountain Road in Sanborn, Niagara County. The 911 caller stated that a 16-year-old male had several cords of wood collapse on him. His breathing status was unknown at the time of the call, although there was a note that no breathing was reported. Police and emergency medical responded to the scene. The 16-year-old's status is unknown. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Advanced Life Support Requested for 16-year-old Trapped Under Wood Pile in Niagara County

An 18-year-old Venezuelan woman who worked as a custodian at Buffalo’s Highmark Stadium remains in federal custody following an unexpected arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Yusgleidy Villa Alvarez had been legally residing in the United States with special immigrant juvenile status, a designation that allowed her to pursue a green card and work authorization. In February, she was granted a work permit valid through mid-2028. However, according to a federal lawsuit filed in October, her status was abruptly revoked the same day she completed her first shift cleaning the stadium on September 19th, just hours before she was detained by ICE agents. For more than a month, Villa Alvarez was held at the Niagara County Jail, which contracts with ICE to detain migrants before being transferred to another out-of-state facility. Her lawyers from the Erie County Bar Association’s Volunteer Lawyers Project argue her detention is unconstitutional and that immigration authorities applied a recent policy change to her case retroactively. Court documents state that Villa Alvarez entered the United States in August 2023 after losing both parents - her mother to brain cancer earlier that year - and later received federal protection meant to prevent deportation and detention. Her lawyers contend that the Department of Homeland Security did not have a warrant for her arrest and that terminating her protected status without notice violated her constitutional rights. The lawsuit also highlights the financial incentive tied to her detention as the Niagara County Jail earns $148 per day per detainee under its ICE contract. Holding Villa Alvarez for more than a month reportedly generated over $6,000 in revenue. Federal officials have since moved to dismiss the case. District Judge Elizabeth Wolford has yet to issue a ruling. If successful, the case could set a precedent on how immigration policy changes are applied to minors previously granted special protections under federal law. Promotional Content 18-year-old Woman Previously Granted Special Protection Detained by ICE After Shift at Highmark Stadium

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 10:30pm on November 12th after reports of a domestic dispute on Meadow Drive in North Tonawanda. The 911 caller and wife stated that her husband was threatening to commit suicide while intoxicated. She further stated that he has a plan to put a shotgun in his mouth and pull the trigger. He keeps the gun underneath his bed. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown whether the husband was taken for mental health treatment or arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Husband Threatens to Shoot Himself with Shotgun He Keeps Under the Bed

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 3pm on November 12th after reports of a medical emergency near James Drive. The 911 caller - the teenage daughter's mother - stated that her 17-year-old daughter was upset and wouldn't stop yelling. The mother found pills and a suicide note. Police responded to the scene and medical. It is unknown if the daughter was transported to a facility for mental health treatment. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Mother Finds 17-year-old Daughter's Pills and Suicide Note

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 1:40am on November 13th after reports of a medical emergency. The 911 caller - the child's mother - stated that her 4-year-old son had a fever and difficulty breathing after getting a vaccine earlier in the day. Police and medical responded to the scene. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: 911 Called for 4-year-old Experiencing Complications After Receiving Vaccine

On paper, it looks like garbage: a murky slurry of fryer grease and crumbs left over from Friday fish fries and late-night wings. But in 2025, used cooking oil is no longer waste—it’s feedstock for the booming biofuels industry. That transformation has turned the back alleys behind New York’s restaurants into the front lines of a quiet, profitable crime wave. In Western New York alone, Buffalo Biodiesel Inc. (BBD), a regional leader in collecting and recycling used cooking oil, says it has logged over 12,000 thefts and break-ins involving its equipment and oil since 2022. Tanks have been drained overnight. Locks and security seals have been cut. For BBD, this isn’t petty nuisance, but millions of dollars of product disappearing into the shadows. As it turns out, the disappearances might not be so random. Court records, federal affidavits, and industry documents show that stolen used cooking oil doesn’t just vanish; it is pumped into unmarked box trucks, pooled in anonymous warehouses, laundered through shell companies, and then sold back into the same biofuel supply chain that is supposed to reward “sustainable” recycling. By the time it reaches a refinery, it can be almost impossible to distinguish from legitimately collected oil. One case based in the Rochester region exposes the mechanics of this organized theft network. In United States v. Guodeng Chen, et al., federal prosecutors in the Western District of New York charged six defendants with conspiring to steal and sell massive quantities of used cooking oil across state lines. These defendants are alleged to have used commercial trucks, warehouse space in Rochester’s Commerce Drive industrial corridor, and a web of small companies to move the product into interstate commerce. The defendants – Guodeng “Andy” Chen, Didi Huang, Fangfang Yan, Ruimao Yang, Yan Han, and Wen Xiao Zhang – are accused of running part of what investigators describe as an organized theft ring targeting restaurant grease bins across Monroe County and beyond. The allegations reach far beyond a handful of late-night heists. According to federal filings, investigators seized more than 12,000 gallons of used cooking oil, over $140,000 in cash, and an unregistered 9mm handgun tied to the operation. They traced truck routes, bank transfers, and bills of lading ( i.e.: a legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper that serves as a receipt for goods) from Rochester restaurant parking lots to an out-of-state refinery. They even documented a sale of oil to a buyer whose name, investigators were told, began with “D-A-R”—a significant detail as it points to Darling Ingredients, one of the world’s largest players in the rendering and used oil business.   Yet more than two and a half years after the arrests, the case remains unresolved. Federal charges are pending, but state-level prosecution never materialized, not even for the illegal firearm found in a warehouse bedroom. Behind the scenes, according to sources, federal prosecutors have alluded to receiving pressure to dismiss the charges. The promising lead toward a potential corporate buyer (D-A-R) was never seriously pursued and Monroe County’s then–district attorney, Sandra Doorley, whose office declined to bring state charges in the case, has since been engulfed by her own legal and ethical scandals that ultimately drove her from office. This article examines what happened in that Rochester grease-theft case from start to finish: how the alleged ring operated, what federal agents say they found, who profited, and why – despite a detailed federal affidavit and a paper trail of oil and money – the case has stalled. It also places the story in a broader context: a national surge in used-cooking-oil theft and the apparent reluctance of some local prosecutors to aggressively confront organized theft tied to migrant labor and transnational networks. And at the center of it all is a 40-page document that reads like a roadmap to the underground grease economy, an affidavit sworn by Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Adam P. Tyrna. Tyrna describes an organized operation that quietly siphoned thousands of gallons of used cooking oil from Western New York restaurants, moved it through shell companies and warehouses, and pushed it into the global biofuels supply chain. All six defendants were charged with conspiracy and interstate transportation and sale of stolen goods under 18 U.S.C. §§ 371, 2314 and 2315. The scheme, as laid out by Tyrna, is simple in concept and sophisticated in execution: steal high-value used cooking oil from restaurant tanks in Monroe County, funnel it through warehouses in Rochester, and sell it into interstate commerce as a legitimate commodity.   Why Does Used Cooking Oil Attracts Thieves? Tyrna’s affidavit starts by explaining the economics. Restaurants typically sign contracts with rendering or recycling companies to collect their used fryer oil. Those companies pay about $0.25 to $0.60 per gallon for used oil and then transport it to refineries where the liquid is cleaned and converted into biodiesel, which can sell for $4 to $5 per gallon. It’s a huge profit margin, which makes the waste product surprisingly lucrative. Nationally, kitchens in hotels and restaurants generate roughly 3 billion pounds of used cooking oil every year, according to environmental and industry estimates. As biodiesel and renewable diesel have become more attractive, thieves have followed. The National Renderers Association has estimated that tens of millions of dollars’ worth of used grease is stolen annually in the United States. BBD’s President, Sumit Majumdar, has previously told reporters from other news outlets that grease thefts have cost his company up to $300,000 per week in some regions and about $15 million per year, roughly a third of its revenue. A Pattern of Nighttime Thefts By the time federal agents became involved, Monroe County authorities were already seeing a pattern: late-night box trucks, unmarked for any legitimate grease collection company, appearing behind restaurants between about 11pm and 6am. Tyrna summarized the pattern, stating, “Over the past year, there have been several thefts of used cooking oil from restaurant parking lots within and around Monroe County. These thefts typically take place overnight, when the restaurants are closed and there is little to no foot traffic. Criminals drive trucks to restaurants in the middle of the night and pump the used cooking oil out of their storage tanks.” In Monroe County and elsewhere, restaurants that contract with used cooking oil collection companies typically have padlocked metal or plastic tanks clearly labeled with the name of the contracted company and fitted with tamper-resistant seals. Under those contracts, once the restaurant pours its waste oil into the tank, legal ownership transfers to the collector, not the restaurant.  That detail matters because from the moment thieves pump the oil out, they’re taking property of the collection company, not “abandoned waste.”   Defendants’ Cover: Rong Cheng Packaging Supply and De Sheng Inc. The investigation broke open in the early morning hours of April 1st, 2022, when officers in Henrietta, New York, were dispatched to The Distillery restaurant. Around 4:17am, officers saw a yellow 2007 Ford Econoline box truck coming out from behind the building. The truck bore New York plate 85949NB and was registered not to a grease collector but to Rong Cheng Packaging Supply Inc. at 300 Commerce Drive, Rochester, NY. The two occupants were later identified as Ruimao Yang and Wen Xiao Zhang. They voluntarily opened the back of the truck. Inside, officers saw two large plastic holding tanks, a “dirty water” pump, and spilled cooking oil on the bumper. There were no placards or company markings indicating authorized UCO transport. Three days later, on April 4th, officers again stopped the same truck, again with Yang and Zhang inside, this time coming from behind a Dunn Tire in Greece, NY. The men told police they were “looking for cooking oil,” produced a four-page list of restaurants across Monroe and Ontario Counties, and gave officers the address of the house they were renting at 23 Eagan Boulevard in Henrietta. These encounters led Monroe County investigators to seek court-authorized GPS tracking warrants for the two box trucks (a yellow “Box Truck 1” and a white “Box Truck 2”). Both were originally registered to Rong Cheng and then re-registered to a new entity, De Sheng Inc., with sequential plate numbers 48747NC and 48748NC. Once the trackers were attached, the pattern became unmistakable. Over a seven-hour overnight period in mid-April, Box Truck 1 made approximately 20 stops at restaurants and plazas around Rochester. When officers retraced the route the next day: -Nearly every stop featured a grease collection tank. -Many tanks were empty and missing the security seals or locks that victim companies typically use. -Most were marked “Victim Company 1,” “Victim Company 2,” or “Victim Company 3.”   Victim Companies Confirm the Oil Was Stolen Over the following weeks, investigators went to the companies that owned those tanks. Representatives for Victim Company 1, 2 and 3 each signed sworn depositions stating: -Only their employees are authorized to remove oil from their tanks. -Tanks always carry tamper-resistant tags. -Neither Yang, Zhang, or the trucks had any affiliation with their companies. Where the Stolen Oil Went Tracking data showed that Box Truck 1 repeatedly returned to a warehouse at 350 Commerce Drive, Rochester, typically in the afternoon, after nights spent hitting restaurant parking lots. On April 21st, 2022, officers watched the truck parked outside 350 Commerce Drive, pumping oil through a hose into the building for about 67 minutes. The investigation then widened to the adjacent warehouse at 300 Commerce Drive, the trucks’ registration address. A representative of “Victim Company 3” told investigators that a friend in the trucking business – referred to in the Complaint as Witness 1 – had been contacted to haul oil from 300 Commerce Drive to refineries in Pennsylvania or New Jersey. Witness 1 handed over bills of lading and invoices documenting two April 2022 shipments of roughly 45,000 pounds of used cooking oil each from “Supplier” at 300 Commerce Drive to a refinery in Erie, Pennsylvania. Later interviews with that refinery and an intermediate “Supplier” confirmed that these April shipments – originating from the Rochester warehouses under the name 2C Wholesale LLC, with a business address of 300 Commerce Drive – had been brokered into the interstate biofuels supply chain. Bank records showed: -On April 11th, 2022, 2C Wholesale’s account received a $29,433.60 deposit from the Supplier. Four days later, a $10,000 check was written from that account to Fangfang Yan. -On April 30th, 2022, the account received another $30,618 deposit from the Supplier. On May 2nd, $7,500 was withdrawn in cash and $3,684 was paid to De Sheng Inc.. According to a later DOJ press release, investigators ultimately traced 95,320 pounds of stolen oil shipped from the Rochester warehouses to the Erie refinery, with the defendants receiving $60,051 in payments for those two loads.   The May 6th, 2022 Raids: Guns, Cash and 12,461 Gallons of Oil With the pattern established, Monroe County prosecutors obtained five search warrants for: -The residence at 23 Eagan Boulevard -The warehouses at 300 and 350 Commerce Drive -Box Truck 1 -Box Truck 2 On May 6th, 2022, officers watched as Box Truck 1 left 23 Eagan Boulevard and pulled up to 350 Commerce Drive. They noticed the truck now bore the new De Sheng license plate, 48747NC. Moments later, they executed the warrants. When officers entered 350 Commerce Drive, they recorded three of the defendants actively working with the stolen oil: Didi Huang, Ruimao Yang, and Yan Han were captured on video unloading oil from Box Truck 1 into large storage tanks inside the warehouse. Huang opened the warehouse door and later told officers that opening the building was his responsibility. As officers moved in, Guodeng Chen was seen near the collection tanks being filled. According to the affidavit, Chen grabbed cash from a nearby desk and stuffed it into the pockets of co-defendant Fangfang Yan who was in the office area. Officers recovered the money and put it in Yan’s purse, which also contained her identification. Chen told officers that he leased the warehouse space at both 300 and 350 Commerce Drive, including the portion housing the oil storage tanks. What investigators seized inside and around 350 Commerce Drive highlighted the operation’s scale: -9,806 gallons of used cooking oil in tanks inside the warehouse. -Another 525 gallons in Box Truck 1 parked outside. -Business and banking records, multiple cell phones and computers. -Cash on multiple defendants’ persons, including $4,510 in U.S. currency and $710 in Canadian currency in Yan’s purse, $33,130 in U.S. currency on Yan Han, and $1,818 in U.S. currency on Didi Huang. All told, authorities seized about 12,461 gallons of used cooking oil, which industry representatives at the time valued at more than $73,000. The searches next door at 300 Commerce Drive uncovered additional incriminatory evidence. At an apparent cover business, workers told officers they were manufacturing and packaging cleaning products for a company called Everclean Eastern Inc.. They said a woman came to the building about every five days and “the big boss” visited once a month. In an office near the front of the building, officers found an unregistered 9mm handgun stored in a box with a full magazine not inserted into the weapon. Officers also found a backpack containing $107,428 cash in a locked room. Box Truck 2, parked at 23 Eagan Boulevard, yielded another 500 gallons of used cooking oil, bringing the total seizure to 12,461 gallons.    “We Don’t Ask Where It Comes From”: Inside the Operation After her arrest, Fangfang Yan agreed to speak with agents, with the help of a Mandarin interpreter. She waived her Miranda rights and described the business structure she believed she worked for. According to the affidavit, Yan said she worked for two companies:   Everclean Eastern LLC at 300 Commerce and Geely Box Inc. at 350 Commerce. She said she spent most of her time at 300 Commerce, and that De Sheng was a newly formed company that had only recently started operations. Yan described Guodeng “Andy” Chen as her boss, someone she saw every day, and said she had been married to co-defendant Didi Huang for about one year at that point. The couple lived with Chen. Yan’s described the oil collection business to investigators, saying that the large tanks at 350 Commerce stored used cooking oil delivered by the truck drivers. She described Yang and Zhang (the truck operators) as selling oil to “my company.” They would call Huang when they were on their way, pump the oil into the warehouse containers, and Huang would handle storage. When asked where the oil came from, Yan said they deliberately did not ask. She claimed they only purchased oil two or three times and had “not been at the 350 Commerce warehouse long.” “They just bought the oil and did not ask questions about it,” said Tyrna in his affidavit . Yan further told investigators that they had already sold one batch of oil. They “prepared the oil and then looked for a client,” ultimately selling it to “a company that begins with the letters D-A-R.” The complaint does not identify that buyer by name. However, in the used cooking oil industry, one of the largest players is Darling Ingredients Inc., which operates restaurant-services and rendering operations under its DAR PRO Solutions brand. DAR PRO collects used cooking oil from hundreds of thousands of restaurants and ships it to facilities where it is converted into renewable diesel and other products. One law enforcement source contends that the unnamed “D-A-R” buyer was Darling Ingredients, a direct competitor of BBD, and that the lead was never fully explored by either state or federal investigators. Of note, neither the complaint nor subsequent DOJ press releases name Darling or accuse it of wrongdoing. Darling emphasize that the company invests in anti-theft technology and even runs a “Grease Police” investigative unit to help law enforcement combat grease theft, not facilitate it. The Federal Case: Interstate Theft and Sale of Stolen Goods Based on Tyrna’s affidavit, prosecutors charged the six defendants with: -Conspiracy under 18 U.S.C. § 371 alleging they agreed together to commit federal offenses. -Transportation of stolen goods in interstate commerce under 18 U.S.C. § 2314, for moving stolen oil worth at least $5,000 across state lines from New York to Pennsylvania knowing it was stolen. -Sale of stolen goods in interstate commerce under 18 U.S.C. § 2315 for selling stolen oil worth at least $5,000 that had crossed a state boundary. As in any criminal case, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. More than two and a half years after the arrests, the federal case remains pending with pre-trial proceedings ongoing. There is no public record yet of a trial verdict. Missing State Charges and the Monroe County District Attorney One of the most contentious aspects of this case is what did not happen after the 2022 raids: Despite the discovery of an unregistered 9mm handgun and more than $107,000 in cash at 300 Commerce Drive, Monroe County did not pursue parallel state charges for firearms or other offenses arising from the search. According to a source involved with the federal prosecution, an Assistant U.S. Attorney disclosed that the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office – then headed by District Attorney Sandra Doorley – declined to charge the defendants with any state crimes, including gun-related felonies. Niagara Action further learned that there has been “pressure” on federal prosecutors to resolve or dismiss the case. Why and by whom will be further investigated in another story. The source who confirmed Doorley’s refusal to bring any state crimes said that the defendants’ status as migrants influenced her decision—alleging an office-level reluctance to prosecute migrant-related crime. The District Attorney’s office has not publicly stated that immigration status played any role in this or any other prosecution and there is no independent documentation that confirms this as a motivating factor. There is, however, no dispute that Doorley herself has faced significant public scrutiny and formal discipline in recent years, eventually resulting in her stepping down as Monroe County District Attorney.   Doorley’s Own Legal and Ethical Troubles On April 22nd, 2024, Doorley was clocked driving 20 miles per hour over the speed limit in Webster, New York. Rather than pulling over, she drove home while the patrol car followed with lights and siren activated. Body-camera footage later released to the public shows the district attorney  displayed her badge and emphasizing her position, refused multiple commands from the officer, called the Webster police chief during the stop, used profanity and told the officer “I understand the law better than you” and “I don’t really care.” The incident generated local and national headlines. New York Governor Kathy Hochul referred the matter to the State Commission on Prosecutorial Conduct and local ethics bodies opened their own investigations. The subsequent findings were harsh, albeit deserved. The Monroe County Office of Public Integrity found her conduct was “rude at best, and more accurately described as abusive,” that her driving of a county vehicle and attempt to “secure unwarranted privileges or exemptions” violated county ethics codes, and referred the matter to the County Board of Ethics. The Commission on Prosecutorial Conduct issued a 13-page report in 2025 recommending that Doorley be publicly censured, concluding that her behavior during the stop undermined public confidence in the justice system. Doorley paid the speeding ticket and released a video apology, saying she took “full responsibility” for her actions and would undergo ethics training, but initially vowed not to resign. By mid-2025, however, facing censure, she told the Commission it was “time for a new DA” and announced she would step down effective August 31, 2025, ending a 13-year tenure as Monroe County’s top prosecutor.   A Crime That Thrives in the Shadows The Rochester case is not an isolated incident. Across the country, renderers and used cooking oil collectors report that “midnight pumping” operations now siphon off an estimated 8% of the U.S. used-oil supply, costing legitimate firms tens of millions a year. A 2019 federal indictment in the South alleged that 21 defendants stole $3.9 million worth of used cooking oil from restaurants across three states. In Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, local District Attorneys offices have noted that grease theft has “caught the eye of organized crime,” with multi-state investigations looking at how recurring heists across the region might be linked. According to a quick Google search, BBD has pleaded for years for more aggressive enforcement, telling other news outlets that thefts now hit roughly 30% of some regional customer bases at least once a year, and that the rate of theft has doubled in certain markets. Altogether, these facts suggest a shadow market where small crews in box trucks, often out of state, roam restaurant parking lots at night. They drain tanks belonging to legitimate collectors such as BBD and sell the stolen oil into a chain of small, often opaque intermediaries. The product is ultimately aggregated, rendered, and sold into the global fuels system, making it indistinguishable from legitimately collected oil.   An Open Case and Unanswered Questions Despite the detailed paper trail – GPS tracker data, surveillance video, victim depositions, bank records, seized cash, and a loaded handgun – the case has not yet produced a public trial verdict. The Rochester cooking-oil case is about far more than a few vats of waste grease. It’s about how a supposedly low-value waste stream has become a multimillion-dollar target for organized theft, how that theft ripples through local businesses like BBD, and how gaps in enforcement can allow sophisticated criminal activity to flourish in the shadows. Whether the federal case against Chen, Huang, Yan, Yang, Han, and Zhang ultimately ends in convictions, dismissals, or quiet plea bargains, it has already pulled back the curtain on a largely hidden economy, and raised uncomfortable questions about who, exactly, is willing to confront it. Promotional Content Federal Investigation Exposes Hidden Network Behind Cooking Oil Thefts Linked to Migrant Group

Top New York Swimmer Fights for Life After Sudden Liver Failure Diagnosis A 17-year-old North Tonawanda High School swimmer is in critical condition at the University of Pittsburgh Children’s Hospital after being diagnosed with acute liver failure caused by Wilson’s disease, a rare hereditary disorder that leads to toxic copper buildup in the liver. Meredith Roberts’ medical crisis began on Halloween when she noticed dark-colored urine. After multiple hospital visits and extensive testing, doctors confirmed the diagnosis. The disease has already caused significant liver scarring, prompting her addition to the most urgent 1A transplant category—reserved for patients whose only chance of survival is a rapid organ replacement. Her parents, Sara and Mike Roberts, said the illness was the result of a genetic mutation inherited from both sides of the family. Doctors told them that the progression had likely been silently occurring for some time before symptoms appeared. Meredith is described as a top-performing student, musician, and athlete. She has been a standout on the North Tonawanda swim team, ranking as the state’s number one breaststroker and earning a spot to compete at the state level for a fourth consecutive year. She had recently committed to Fairfield University where she planned to continue her swimming career at the Division I level. Now, her family and community are urgently searching for a living liver donor with O positive blood. Friends, classmates, and teammates have flooded social media with prayers, tributes, and offers of support. Her mother said the messages of love have given the family hope amid unimaginable uncertainty. The Roberts family continues to share updates from Pittsburgh as they wait for a donor match. Those wishing to help can apply to become a living liver donor through the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s transplant program: https://livingdonorreg.upmc.com A verified GoFundMe has been created to assist the Roberts family with medical and travel expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-north-tonawanda-teen-in-need-of-liver-donor Supporters can send get-well cards directly to Meredith through the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's online portal: https://ecards.upmc.com Promotional Content North Tonawanda Teen Swimmer Battles for Life Amid Urgent Liver Transplant Search

WATCH BELOW What was meant to be a routine Sunday matchup for Buffalo Bills fans quickly turned chaotic after a fight broke out among supporters during the team’s 30–13 loss to the Miami Dolphins. The incident, captured on video, went viral on social media as Bills Mafia turned on themselves. Footage from the stands shows multiple fans throwing punches as others, including two women in Bills jerseys, tried to intervene. Amid the scuffle, an elderly man could be seen swinging his cane at those fighting while a nearby child watched helplessly. The crowd chaos unfolded in full view of stunned spectators, with a security guard rushing over but struggling to contain the disorder. Witnesses described the melee as relentless, with fans in orange and Bills blue exchanging blows as tempers boiled over. The confrontation came during a frustrating game for Buffalo where the offense stalled until the fourth quarter, scoring their only touchdown on a pass from Josh Allen to Keon Coleman. Fans online expressed disbelief over the viral clip. The video quickly became one of the most talked-about moments from Week 10, overshadowing even the team’s poor on-field performance. Promotional Content VIDEO: Bills Fans’ Wild Stadium Brawl Goes Viral During Dolphins Game

A convicted sex offender from Oklahoma who staged his own disappearance more than ten years ago has been arrested in Upstate New York where investigators say he had been living under a false identity and attending college. Authorities confirmed that Anthony Lennon, 44, once listed among Oklahoma’s Ten Most Wanted, was taken into custody at the end of October following a joint investigation by U.S. Marshals and New York law enforcement. Officials said fingerprint analysis confirmed his true identity after years on the run. According to investigators, Lennon faked a bloody kidnapping scene in 2012 to avoid prosecution on additional child-pornography charges. Before disappearing, he allegedly emptied his bank accounts and left misleading evidence of a violent abduction. The elaborate hoax fooled local authorities for months before investigators determined that the scene had been staged. Court records show Lennon was first convicted in 2010 when police discovered approximately 50 gigabytes of child sexual-abuse material on his computer. In 2012, as investigators uncovered additional evidence, including chat logs, CDs, and other illicit content, he vanished before new charges could be filed. For nearly a decade, Lennon managed to stay under the radar. Investigators traced sporadic activity tied to him, including an Amazon purchase in North Carolina in 2020 and a possible sighting in Dallas in 2022. Federal filings later revealed that Lennon had obtained fraudulent identification and enrolled at SUNY Canton, where he lived under the alias “Justin Phillips,” studying engineering science and living off campus. Officials have not disclosed where Lennon is currently detained as state and federal agencies coordinate his extradition back to Oklahoma. Promotional Content Fugitive Who Faked His Own Kidnapping Captured in Upstate New York

Governor Kathy Hochul is facing mounting backlash after her administration approved a long-delayed natural gas pipeline through New York Harbor — a project that had been rejected multiple times in previous years over environmental concerns. More than 200 demonstrators gathered outside Hochul’s New York City office on Tuesday to protest the decision, condemning the state’s approval of the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) pipeline. The project, spearheaded by energy companies Williams and Transco, includes a 17.4-mile underwater section running through the Raritan and Lower New York bays near Staten Island. The approval marked a major reversal for the project which was previously denied three times under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, a provision designed to regulate pollution and water quality standards. Environmental groups argue that the construction will disturb contaminated sediment on the seabed, potentially releasing toxic materials into nearby waters. Critics say the decision represents a betrayal of New York’s climate commitments. Laura Shindell of Food & Water Watch accused Hochul of “turning her back on New York families to do Donald Trump’s dirty work,” calling the pipeline a threat that will “poison our harbor, drive up energy bills, and keep New York shackled to fossil fuels for decades.” The pipeline’s financing will include a 3.5% rate hike for National Grid customers across New York City and Long Island even though certain regions, including Staten Island, will not receive any direct energy benefit from the project. Meg Metzger, a Brooklyn parent and member of Climate Families NYC, said her family was appalled by the approval, warning that it would raise costs and risk polluting the city’s waterways with lead and arsenic. Environmental advocates pointed to cleaner alternatives, saying New York’s energy needs could be met with solar and renewable sources instead of expanding gas infrastructure. Just hours after New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) granted approval under Section 401, New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection also signed off on both Section 401 and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, clearing the project on both sides of the bay. Williams President and CEO Chad Zamarin praised the decision, saying, “We’re proud to move NESE forward and do our part in providing New Yorkers access to clean, reliable and affordable natural gas,” adding that the project would help lower costs and support economic growth. However, many see the move as a sharp reversal from the state’s own environmental regulators. In 2020, the DEC had denied the project saying its construction “would result in significant water quality impacts resulting from the re-suspension of sediments and other contaminants, including mercury and copper,” and would disturb “sensitive habitats, including shellfish beds and other bottom-dwelling marine life.” The agency concluded at the time that New York was “not prepared to sacrifice the state’s water quality for a project that is not only environmentally harmful, but also unnecessary.” The pipeline’s revival is linked to President Donald Trump’s second term, during which his administration reinstated several fossil fuel projects previously blocked under environmental rules. Trump’s energy policy has focused on boosting domestic oil and gas production, rolling back restrictions, and sidelining renewable initiatives. As protests continue, opponents of the NESE pipeline vow to fight on, arguing that the project’s approval marks a major step backward for New York’s climate goals and a betrayal by Hochul. Promotional Content Hundreds Rally Against Hochul After She Greenlights Controversial Pipeline

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:25am on November 11th after reports of a domestic violence incident and possible hostage situation on 19th Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that she was physically and violently pushed out of her home half naked. She then told police that her boyfriend was holding her children inside of the house "hostage." Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the boyfriend was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Boyfriend Violently Removes Half-naked Girlfriend from Home, Holds Kids 'Hostage'

New York Governor Kathy Hochul could be heading for a bruising re-election battle in 2026 as a new statewide poll shows her Republican challenger, Rep. Elise Stefanik, within striking distance in what has long been considered a safely Democratic state. According to a recent survey conducted by J.L. Partners, Stefanik holds a commanding lead among likely Republican primary voters and is statistically tied with Hochul in a general election matchup. The poll found that 74% of GOP respondents favor Stefanik as their party’s nominee, compared to just 5% for Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, with most remaining voters undecided. The primary survey, conducted November 9th–10th among 400 likely Republican voters had a margin of error of 4.9%. J.L. Partners co-founder James Johnson told the New York Post that “Stefanik seems to dominate the Republican vote. It’s a done deal.” The congresswoman’s overwhelming name recognition appears to be driving her early advantage with more than three-quarters of Republican voters viewing her favorably. However, the more troubling numbers for Democrats come from the general election portion of the poll. In a head-to-head contest, Hochul leads Stefanik by just 46% to 43%, well within the poll’s 4.4% margin of error, making the race effectively a dead heat. The general election survey of 500 likely voters, conducted over the same period, also revealed deep voter dissatisfaction with the governor. Only 37% of respondents said they would definitely or likely support Hochul’s re-election, while 55% said “it’s time for someone new.” These results underscore the mounting challenges facing Hochul as she grapples with voter frustration over high living costs, population decline, and controversial criminal justice reforms including cashless bail and parole policies that critics argue have fueled rising crime and public safety concerns. Stefanik, now serving her sixth term in Congress and a member of House Republican leadership, has positioned herself as the voice of those frustrations. She has made affordability, public safety, and opposition to Albany’s progressive policies the core of her campaign message, echoing former President Donald Trump’s criticisms of cashless bail laws. The poll also highlights Stefanik’s growing institutional support within the Republican Party. Twelve GOP state senators, led by Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, have endorsed her bid, calling her “the fighter New York needs.” Nine county executives across the state have joined in, citing what they describe as Hochul’s “failed progressive policies” driving families and businesses out of New York. While Johnson noted that high Democratic turnout could still give Hochul the edge, he warned that GOP momentum, combined with voter anger over Albany politics and frustration with progressive figures like Zohran Mamdani, suggests that New York’s political map could be shifting. J.L. Partners, which accurately projected the outcome of the 2024 presidential election between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, currently rates the 2026 New York governor’s race as a “coin flip.” If Stefanik maintains her momentum, she could pose the strongest Republican challenge to a sitting Democratic governor in New York in decades. Promotional Content Stefanik Gains Ground as Hochul Faces Tight Re-election Fight, Poll Finds

A federal court has ordered Suffolk County and its sheriff’s office to pay $112 million in damages to hundreds of immigrants unlawfully held in local jails on behalf of federal immigration authorities. According to court documents, 674 people were found to have been detained beyond their lawful release dates in 2017, despite posting bail or resolving their criminal cases. A federal judge ruled that the county’s actions violated their constitutional due process rights under the 14th Amendment.. “This decision brings long-overdue accountability,” said José Pérez, Deputy General Counsel at LatinoJustice PRLDEF, which represented the plaintiffs. “The jury confirmed what we have argued all along, that Suffolk County’s actions trampled the basic due process rights guaranteed under the 14th Amendment.” The case began with a complaint filed by a 34-year-old immigrant from Guatemala, who said he was unlawfully held in a Suffolk County jail for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) despite meeting his bail conditions. His cousin had paid $1,000 bail expecting his release and appearance in immigration court. However, instead of being freed, the man was transferred first to ICE’s Varick Street Detention Center in Manhattan and later to the Bergen County Jail in New Jersey. The lawsuit alleged that Suffolk County routinely held detainees for ICE after their criminal matters were resolved, effectively turning local jails into unlawful extensions of federal detention. The plaintiff, represented by LatinoJustice, claimed that he was never informed that his bail had been paid and that his detention caused lasting harm. Court records show that the man suffered severe emotional distress, physical and psychological injury, loss of liberty, humiliation, economic hardship, and a loss of enjoyment of life as a result of the unlawful detention. In issuing the ruling, the court determined that Suffolk County’s practice violated federal and constitutional protections, setting a precedent for similar cases involving local cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Promotional Content Migrants Unlawfully Detained by ICE in New York Awarded $112 Million in Landmark Ruling

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 2am on November 12th after reports of a domestic violence incident on Niagara Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - a third party - stated that she is on the phone with daughter and the boyfriend attempted to throw the child during a violent domestic altercation. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Male Tries to Throw Child During Domestic Dispute in Niagara Falls

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:25pm on November 11th after reports of a medical emergency at the Seneca Niagara Casino Hotel in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - an unknown third party - stated that a party was found unresponsive male in a hotel room. The person was not breathing and there was no signs of life. During the call, it was noted that first responders were attempting CPR. Niagara Falls Police, Niagara Falls Fire and medical responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was declared deceased at the hotel. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Dead Body Possibly Found at Seneca Niagara Casino Hotel

By: CrossCheck Media Used cooking oil (UCO) once read as an operational nuisance for restaurants: pour it into a drum, call a collector and pay a fee. In less than a decade it morphed into a traded commodity worth real money — feedstock for biodiesel, renewable diesel and renewable natural gas — and with value came criminal opportunity. The result: a growing, sometimes violent shadow industry that steals raw material from businesses, infects legitimate biofuel value chains, and raises costs for honest operators and consumers alike. Industry groups now estimate annual UCO theft in the United States at hundreds of millions of dollars. A recent update from the North American Renderers Association (NARA) raised its conservative annual U.S. theft estimate to $300–$500 million, pending further study — a figure that underlines how widespread the problem has become. UCO is attractive to thieves because it’s relatively high-value, portable and often poorly secured. When refined, a gallon of processed UCO can be worth several dollars, and in aggregate the volumes move serious cash. Trade analysts and industry reports put the global UCO market in the multi-billion-dollar range, and U.S. processors rely on regional collectors to supply refineries and fuel producers. When raw material disappears overnight, so do restaurant revenues, company margins and — ultimately — the economics of domestic renewable fuel production. What makes the problem worse is the variety of ways stolen product re-enters the supply chain. Federal indictments and prosecutions across multiple jurisdictions have shown a recurring pattern: thieves siphon UCO from restaurant tanks or unsecured containers, haul it to warehouses, then funnel it to brokers and refineries — sometimes across state lines. In a notable Western New York case, six men were federally charged for stealing large shipments of UCO and moving them to a refinery where the oil was turned into biodiesel. Prosecutors documented night-time siphoning, storage at commercial warehouses, and interstate shipments to buyers. Law enforcement and U.S. Attorney press releases make clear this is not isolated shoplifting. Federal and state prosecutions from Raleigh to Rochester have identified organized rings and prison sentences. In North Carolina, a defendant was sentenced to more than three years for a multi-state theft and money-laundering scheme tied to UCO. In New York, federal indictments described coordinated stealing and interstate resale of tens of thousands of gallons of oil. Those legal actions prove two things: criminals will target UCO markets at scale, and — when enforcement focuses resources — authorities can break networks. Still, prosecutions are patchy and reactive rather than systematic. Industry groups and collectors complain that many jurisdictions see grease theft as a petty property crime — not the commercial-scale commodity theft it has become — hampering sustained investigations and deterrence. Trade outlets and industry analysts argue the result is a persistent, low-visibility theft economy that quietly siphons value from restaurants and legitimate processors. To companies like Buffalo Biodiesel — which changed the industry by collecting and paying for used fryer oil from thousands of restaurants across the Northeast and processes it into renewable feedstock — the theft is an operational crisis. Buffalo Biodiesel’s CEO Sumit Majumdar has publicly described “hundreds of thefts a week” that affect supplier relationships and cash flows, and the company has prioritized theft-prevention investments alongside regulatory compliance upgrades. “This is overwhelming our staff and the system,” Majumdar said in a recent company statement, emphasizing the material effect on operations. Restaurants lose both immediate revenue (they are paid for their UCO) and the time and trouble of replacing compromised containers. Collectors and small haulers face replacement costs for stolen tanks and storage equipment, higher insurance premiums and the reputational damage of missed pickups. For processors, theft creates spikes in raw-material volatility: supply gaps can push feedstock prices higher, or force firms to rely on imported oils of suspect origin. The downstream result can be higher costs for biodiesel blends — a pass-through that ultimately touches consumers. Law enforcement cases show a mix of actors. Some operations are opportunistic — local thieves siphoning bins for quick resale. Others are structured organized theft networks that use vehicles, hoses and warehouses to aggregate thousands of gallons destined for brokers. Federal complaints describe conspiracies in which stolen UCO was transported interstate and refined into biodiesel for profit; in at least one case prosecutors say stolen loads were sold to a broker and moved to a Pennsylvania refinery. That kind of organized activity looks less like petty crime and more like commodity fraud. A complicating factor is the gray market between pure theft and unscrupulous buying. Brokers and even refiners have at times purchased oil from middlemen without sufficient provenance checks. Trade watchdogs and some lawmakers worry that imported oils — labeled as “used” but actually virgin oils or palm oil linked to deforestation — have blurred the market, enabling bad actors to launder product through otherwise legitimate channels. U.S. farm-state senators raised these concerns about surging imports from China, and regulators have been urged to tighten traceability and authentication. One cause of the problem is the mismatch between the commodity’s value and the regulatory tools used to police it. Local police may view a siphoned drum as petty theft; federal law addresses interstate transport and trafficking but requires investigative bandwidth. The UCO industry has pushed for better tank monitoring, chain-of-custody documentation, and stronger criminal penalties for organized theft. Industry technology vendors say their tools — remote level monitors, GPS tracking and audited ticketing systems — detect theft early and provide the evidence prosecutors need. “Used cooking oil theft isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a serious threat to margins and operational integrity,” says Eric Wise, vice president at Otodata Industrial Solutions, a vendor of UCO tank-monitoring technology. There’s also a policy angle: agencies that oversee renewable-fuel incentives and trade have grown concerned about fraud and mislabeling. The EPA and the USDA have both been pulled into debates about feedstock authenticity and the scope of domestic incentives — meaning that the UCO theft problem can cascade into compliance and subsidy disputes. Recent proposals and hearings show regulators moving to tighten documentation and auditing for feedstocks used in government-credited biofuels. The problem sometimes spills into violence. A high-profile recent case involved former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez, who was stabbed after an altercation with a truck driver who had been collecting used cooking oil behind a hotel. Reporting from the Associated Press and follow-ups indicate the driver was operating a grease-collection truck at the time of the confrontation; surveillance footage and police documents show a chaotic late-night encounter that left Sanchez hospitalized and charged in the episode. Whether that night’s driver was stealing oil or legitimately collecting it remains a matter for local investigators and courts; the incident highlights how friction around night-time grease pickups can escalate when parties cross paths in vulnerable settings. UCO is a critical feedstock for lower-carbon fuel blends and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) inputs. When feedstock quality and provenance are uncertain, refineries and fuel buyers face regulatory and reputational risk. Theft that reduces domestic collection capacity can increase reliance on imports — a shift that undermines local circular-economy goals and can increase lifecycle emissions if the imported feedstock is from environmentally damaging sources. In short, unchecked theft not only harms businesses but can slow the clean-fuel transition policymakers want to encourage. Some promising tactics have already emerged. Collectors and restaurant groups are deploying tamper-proof containers, GPS-enabled trucks, locked tanks and remote level monitors. Tech vendors provide near-real-time alerts and tamper logs that make it easier to prove theft and to provide prosecutable evidence to police. Industry associations urge coordinated law-enforcement task forces and stronger statutory penalties calibrated to the commodity’s value. When authorities prioritize the issue, arrests and convictions follow, and theft rings dissolve. Companies also emphasize traceability and diligence. Buffalo Biodiesel’s recent public updates on permitting, capital upgrades and investments in monitoring systems demonstrate how a legitimate operator can marry compliance and technology to limit exposure. “With the right policy framework and investment, we can expand responsibly and protect jobs,” Sumit Majumdar says, describing steps the company has taken to harden operations and deepen documentation. No single fix will end grease theft. The best path combines better physical security, digital monitoring, coordinated enforcement and supply-chain transparency. Policymakers should consider harmonized penalties and incentives for traceability; industry should standardize chain-of-custody paperwork; and buyers (refiners, brokers and end users) must refuse opaque lots that lack provenance. Private technology — from tank sensors to tamper-evident seals and digital ticketing — is effective but requires industry adoption and, in many cases, regulatory backing to scale. UCO’s rise as a feedstock illustrates a broader truth about commodity markets: convert a waste stream into a valuable product and someone will try to capture the economics — legally or not. The winners will be the companies and communities that pair robust security and compliance with proactive public-policy engagement. The losers are restaurants that find a regular revenue stream disappearing, processors that face raw-material whipsaw, and policymakers who must manage public incentives that can be gamed by bad actors. If policymakers want a resilient U.S. biofuels industry — one that supports local jobs, reduces emissions and anchors circular economies — they will need to treat UCO theft as exactly what it is: a commercial-scale theft problem requiring commercial-scale responses. Promotional Content The Hidden Crime Wave Behind a Multi-billion Dollar Used Cooking Oil Industry

If your mailbox hasn’t delivered New York’s long-awaited inflation refund yet, you’re not alone. State officials say millions of residents are still receiving their one-time payments of up to $400. According to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, the state began distributing checks in October and by Friday, November 7th, more than 6.1 million payments had already been mailed out. Officials stress that more are on the way. All eligible New Yorkers should expect their check before the end of November. The timeline for when each person receives their refund depends on when their 2023 tax return was filed and processed. Those who filed early are likely to see their payment sooner while others may have to wait until later in the month. State officials said, “The inflation refund checks will continue to be sent out through the end of November,” and that mailings aren’t determined by zip code or region. They added that Contact Center representatives won’t have access to individual check status updates. To verify what your check will look like or to learn more about the refund process, the state recommends visiting ny.gov/inflationrefund . The state’s website outlines clear eligibility criteria. To receive a payment, New Yorkers must have: -Filed Form IT-201 (New York State Resident Income Tax Return) for 2023, -Reported income within the qualifying thresholds, and -Not been claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return. Those who meet the qualifications don’t need to take any action as checks are being mailed automatically. The payment amount depends on income level and filing status. According to the Department of Taxation and Finance, eligible residents will receive: -$200 for individuals earning up to $75,000 per year -$150 for individuals earning between $75,000–$150,000 -$400 for married couples filing jointly earning up to $150,000 -$300 for married couples filing jointly earning $150,000–$300,000 -$200 for married couples filing separately earning up to $75,000 -$150 for married couples filing separately earning $75,000–$150,000 -$200 for heads of household earning up to $75,000 -$150 for heads of household earning between $75,000–$150,000 -$400 for qualified surviving spouses earning up to $150,000 $300 for qualified surviving spouses earning $150,000–$300,000 The majority of recipients are concentrated in New York City and surrounding areas, according to the state’s data: -New York City: 3.53 million recipients -Long Island: 1.25 million -Mid-Hudson: 924,000 -Western New York: 585,000 -Finger Lakes: 513,000 -Capital Region: 475,000 -Central New York: 321,000 -Southern Tier: 251,000 -Mohawk Valley: 198,000 -North Country: 156,000 Promotional Content Still Waiting on Your New York Inflation Refund Check? Here’s Why It Might Not Have Arrived Yet

A new analysis has delivered troubling news for New Yorkers hoping to enjoy their retirement years without financial stress. The Empire State ranks among the worst places in the nation to retire. According to a recent report by Retirement Living, New York came in 49th overall, making it the second-worst state in America for retirees. The study evaluated all 50 states using a 100-point scoring system based on three major categories: quality of life (60 points), affordability (30 points), and economic strength (10 points). New York’s scores placed it 46th in affordability, 50th in economic strength, and 24th in quality of life. The combination paints a grim picture for retirees on fixed incomes. The research concluded that a New Yorker needs roughly $1.03 million in savings to live comfortably in retirement, a figure driven up by the state’s 10.9% income tax and 1.6% property tax rate. Adding to the concern is the senior poverty rate, which stands at 14.3%, one of the highest in the country. Safety and property crime statistics also contributed to New York’s low ranking. The report noted, “For retirees with the means, New York offers rich cultural experiences and diverse living options, but for most, the financial tradeoffs are hard to ignore.” Despite its cultural and recreational opportunities, analysts argue that the state’s high costs overshadow its lifestyle perks. Those who remain in New York after retirement face mounting challenges related to housing, healthcare, and utilities—all of which are rising faster than the national average. For Governor Hochul’s administration, the findings highlight an ongoing economic issue that critics say continues to push residents out of the state entirely. Promotional Content Hochul’s New York Declared Second-worst State to Retire, Study Finds

School officials in Albany are urging parents across New York State to be vigilant about dangerous social media trends after a young student died in what appears to be an online challenge gone wrong. The tragedy happened on Saturday night and involved a student from Arbor Hill Elementary School, according to a message sent to families by Principal Rosalind Gaines-Harrell. She described the loss as “profoundly sad” and cautioned families about viral challenges that are often framed as harmless but can carry serious risks. District representatives confirmed the death appeared linked to new a TikTok trend, though they did not disclose specific details. In response, Arbor Hill has activated its Crisis Response Team, which includes social workers, counselors, and mental health professionals who will be available throughout the week. Officials also said therapy dogs and comfort services will be brought in to help grieving students, staff members, and families cope. Gaines-Harrell encouraged families to talk with children about what they see online and to set healthy limits around social media. She advised parents to be attentive, have open discussions, and remind students to reach out to trusted adults if they encounter something alarming. “This is a heartbreaking loss for our school community,” she said. Promotional Content Student Dies After TikTok Challenge Accident, District Warns Families

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 9:20am on November 10th reporting a body found with no signs of life on the 1100 block of Michigan Avenue in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that a person was found not breathing and with no other signs of life. Niagara Falls Fire and AMR responded to the scene and confirmed that the individual was not breathing. It is unknown if the individual was revived. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Body Found in Niagara Falls Apartment

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call slightly before midnight on November 10th reporting a mental health crisis and assault on 3rd Avenue in North Tonawanda. The 911 caller stated that he is "going crazy" and that he is trying to seriously hurt her. It was then reported that the mother had him restrained in the living room, but did not elaborate to how. The 911 caller also said that the male had punched both her and his mother. It is unknown the extent of injuries sustained, if any. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested or brought to a hospital for psychiatric treatment. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: North Tonawanda Man Goes 'Crazy' and Punches Mother

A Niagara Falls resident will serve more than two decades in state prison for killing another man during a dispute in 2022. Al Villane, 32, was sentenced in Niagara County Court to 22 years to life in prison after a jury found him guilty of second-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon. The sentence was imposed by Judge John Ottaviano who had the option to go as high as 25 years to life. The case stemmed from a violent confrontation on September 19th, 2022, inside an apartment building on the 700 block of 20th Street. The victim, 47-year-old Niagara Falls resident Hollis Stewart, suffered a deep stab wound to the chest and was rushed to Erie County Medical Center. After six weeks of complications and medical treatment, he died in November 2022. Villane was arrested at the scene. Police recovered the large hunting knife used in the attack. Witnesses later said Villane brandished the blade before the stabbing occurred and some recalled hearing him threaten Stewart moments before the assault. During the trial, defense attorneys argued that Villane never intended to kill anyone and claimed he picked up the knife only to intimidate Stewart, describing his behavior as reckless rather than deliberate. Prosecutors countered by telling jurors that Villane chose not to leave the apartment when ordered to do so and instead made a conscious decision to use the weapon during a personal dispute involving a woman. After a three-day trial, jurors needed only an hour to convict Villane on all counts. Villane did not speak before the sentence was imposed on Monday, November 10th. Promotional Content Niagara Falls Man Sentenced to 22 Years for Deadly 2022 Stabbing

Consumer, environmental, and affordability advocates are pushing state regulators to reject a sweeping proposal from New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E). The plan could add as much as $800 per year to some households’ utility bills. In a filing before the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC), the companies outlined rate increases that would raise monthly delivery charges between 34% and 48%, depending on service type and customer class. Opponents say the hikes would fall hardest on low-income families who are already buried under high energy bills and mounting arrears. The request arrives just two years after a 2023 case that increased residential delivery fees an average of 62%. Advocacy groups argue that families have not recovered from that spike, even as the utilities’ parent company, Avangrid, continues to grow its profit margins. According to Renewable Heat Now, Avangrid’s net earnings nearly doubled since 2015 rising from $135.7 million to $387.2 million in 2024. Jessica Azulay, Executive Director of the Alliance for a Green Economy (AGREE), said the companies are making “historic profits while putting hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers into debt.” She argued that approving another round of major increases would contradict the state’s supposed affordability priorities, calling it a betrayal of any “affordability agenda” in New York. Advocates also claim the proposal encourages more natural gas consumption, expands fossil fuel infrastructure, and undermines customers who invested in heat pumps and other high-efficiency systems. Critics say the plan contradicts the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act by locking ratepayers into outdated, polluting energy systems. Data from summer 2025 shows the scale of the financial strain: -More than 183,000 households across NYSEG and RG&E territories were behind on payments -Over 13,000 service terminations were reported -Many households in Upstate New York are paying energy burdens far beyond affordability benchmarks Kristen Van Hooreweghe, Senior Director of the Climate Solutions Accelerator, pointed to a recently released audit that found gaps in climate compliance oversight, poor transparency in spending, and inadequate support for low-to-moderate-income customers. She said the companies lack credibility to request increases of this size while families are already paying extreme amounts. Advocates also highlight a long-standing pattern of billing errors, customer complaints, and regulatory investigations. Adam Flint of the Network for a Sustainable Tomorrow noted that state auditors found 128 operational issues within the companies, several serious enough to trigger violation notices. Multiple state legislators have also warned of significant financial consequences. Senator Jeremy Cooney said the increases would “hurt the pocketbooks of New Yorkers” during a statewide affordability crisis. Senator Lea Webb reported her office is still receiving calls from residents panicking about the potential hikes, urging constituents to speak up. Assemblymember Anna Kelles stressed that customers already experienced more than a 60% jump in delivery fees. She cited residents choosing between food and electricity, including one family that received a $2,600 electric bill in a single month. Kelles said NYSEG and RG&E continue to pour money into aging gas infrastructure while Avangrid’s profits soar, calling utility affordability a necessity, not a luxury. In a statement, NYSEG told CBS6 that utilities are legally required to submit rate cases in order to invest in system upgrades and maintain reliability. The companies said the filing reflects a five-year plan to modernize infrastructure and improve service. They also noted that PSC approval is required for any increase, and argued that the initial numbers reported publicly are unlikely to represent the final outcome. The utilities also pushed back on claims about profits being sent overseas, noting that from 2015–2024, NYSEG and RG&E received $1.19 billion more in capital contributions from Avangrid than they paid in dividends. Promotional Content Families Already Drowning in Utility Debt Now Face $800 a Year Increase from NYSEG as Profits Soar

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 7:50am on November 10th after reports of a robbery and assault at 7-Eleven on the 2800 block of Pine Avenue in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that a black male stole several items before punching the employee in the face. The suspect then fled towards Hyde Park Boulevard. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the suspect was apprehended. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Black Male Punches 7-Eleven Employee After Stealing Merchandise

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:20am on November 10th after reports of a possible overdose where the individual was not breathing on North Avenue in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that Narcan was given twice but the woman had not started breathing. Police, fire and emergency medical responded to the scene. It is unknown if the woman survived. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Overdose Victim Fails to Breathe After Getting Narcan Twice

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 8:10am on November 10th after reports of a medical emergency at McDonald's on Pine Avenue in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that they found a person on the ground not breathing or showing any signs of life. Police and emergency medical responded to the scene. There was no confirmation on the police audio that the individual was deceased. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Body with No Signs of Life Found Near McDonald's in Niagara Falls

Niagara County Sheriff Michael Filicetti has announced the arrest of 22-year-old Manuel Gerson Castro-Cabrera following an investigation into a domestic disturbance. According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies from the Criminal Investigation Bureau responded to the incident which led to Castro-Cabrera being taken into custody. Following the investigation, he was charged with: -Assault in the Second Degree -Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree -Resisting Arrest -Obstructing Governmental Administration in the Second Degree Castro-Cabrera, identified by authorities as a native of El Salvador, is currently being held at the Niagara County Correctional Facility. Sheriff Filicetti also confirmed that a Department of Homeland Security Immigration Detainer has been placed on Castro-Cabrera by U.S. Border Patrol after officials determined he is in the country unlawfully. No additional details regarding the domestic investigation were released. Promotional Content Illegal Migrant Arrested after Assaulting Woman in Niagara County, Will be Deported

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11pm on November 9th after reports of a medical emergency on Sunset Drive in Lockport. The 911 caller stated that a 37-year-old female fell from bed resulting in severe neck and shoulder pain. She struck her head on the floor. Police and emergency medical responded to the scene. It is unknown if she was hospitalized. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: 37-year-old Woman Falls from Bed and Sustains Severe Head and Neck Injuries

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 6pm on November 8th after reports of two overdoses on the 500 block of 22nd Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that two males had overdosed. One of the two was given Narcan. However, at the time of the call it was unknown if either was breathing. Emergency medical including Mercy was requested to respond for advanced life support. The condition of both individuals is unknown. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: 911 Caller Says He Didn't Know if Overdose Victims Were Breathing

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW 911 received a call around 6pm on November 8th after reports of carbon monoxide poisoning on South Avenue in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that the level of carbon monoxide in the home was dangerously high, measuring at 75 to 79 parts per million. There were symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning from multiple individuals at the location. Police and several emergency medical units responded to the location. It is unknown how many people - if any - were hospitalized. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Multiple Individuals Show Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Niagara Falls

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 7am on November 9th after reports of a male sustaining a serious bodily injury on Trent Square in Cheektowaga. The 911 caller stated that a male (name withheld) shot himself in the head. Police and emergency medical responded to the scene. It is unknown what led up to the incident. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Male Shoots Himself in the Head Inside Apartment

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:30am on November 8th after reports of a domestic dispute and possible assault on the 2400 block of Welch Avenue in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller said that he can hear his neighbors arguing. He heard the male tell the female that he would "kill her" if police were called. A lot of banging and yelling in the background made it sound like there was an active struggle, per the 911 call. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Police Hear a Struggle, Banging During Domestic Dispute Call

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 1pm on November 8th after reports of a medical emergency at Walmart on Niagara Falls Boulevard in North Tonawanda. The 911 caller stated that a male in his 70's was unconscious near the registers. Emergency medical responded to Walmart and there was a comment about advanced life support. The male's condition is unknown. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Male in his 70's Collapses at Walmart, Advanced Life Support Requested

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 4:30pm on November 9th after reports of a domestic incident where a woman sustained burns on Easton Avenue in Buffalo. The 911 caller stated that a female sustained burns after having oil thrown on her during a domestic violence incident. Police, fire and emergency medical responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male suspect was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Woman has Pot of Boiling Oil Thrown on Her During Domestic Dispute

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 8:15am on November 8th after reports of menacing with a weapon. The 911 caller/victim stated that Sean Green came through her window and threatened her with a machete. Of note, the same victim called 911 the prior day and reported that Green had broke into her apartment and threatened to hurt her. She told police that Green would be hiding in the downstairs apartment. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if Green was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Suspect Breaks Into Apartment and Threatens to Hack Up Woman with Machete

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 9pm on November 8th after reports of a medical emergency on 24th Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller stated that a woman had just given birth to a child in the home. Niagara Falls Fire and medical responded to the home. The 911 caller further stated that the baby was breathing but required immediate medical assistance. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: Emergency Medical Needed After Woman Births Child Inside Niagara Falls Home

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 2800 block of Mckoon Avenue around 1pm on November 6th after reports of an assault. Upon arrival, officers interviewed the victim who stated at approx. 1pm she was sitting inside of her vehicle outside of Righteous Auto at 1720 Pine Avenue when a female she knows as Devin Palmer approached her vehicle and engaged her in a verbal altercation. Of note, the victim told police she had no idea what the reason was for the argument. During the altercation, Palmer displayed a can of pepper spray and sprayed her in the face and inside of her vehicle. It was at this point the victim sped off to avoid further confrontation or getting assaulted further. The victim was able to drive home with only one eye due to the second being blinded by pepper spray. Officers put a description over the air of the suspect and her tan Buick vehicle. Shortly thereafter, Palmer’s vehicle was located in front of a Niagara Falls Fire Department station on 10th Street and a traffic stop was performed. Once it was determined the victim wished to press charges, Palmer was placed under arrest. She was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. Palmer was charged with Assault in the 2nd degree, which is a felony. No further information is available at this time. Promotional Content Devin Palmer of Niagara Falls Arrested After Pepper Spraying Woman During Altercation

New York Attorney General Letitia James has formally asked a federal judge to throw out the mortgage fraud case brought against her, arguing the prosecution is rooted in political retaliation driven by President Donald Trump. In a filing submitted Friday, James’ legal team portrayed the charges as a personal vendetta. The motion recounts years of hostile public remarks made by Trump following James’ civil lawsuit against him and the Trump Organization. According to the motion, “This lawsuit, and AG James’ outspoken criticism of the President, triggered six years of targeted attacks. President Trump and his allies have used every insulting term in their vocabulary to deride AG James and call for criminal penalties in retaliation for the exercise of her rights and fulfillment of her statutory duties to fulfill her obligations as New York state’s attorney general.” The filing cites Trump describing James as “crooked,” “scum,” “a monster,” and “criminal.” James is accused of falsifying information on mortgage paperwork to secure better loan terms on a home in Norfolk, Virginia, where she has relatives. She pleaded not guilty last month and stated outside the courthouse that the Trump administration had turned the justice system into a “tool of revenge.” Her attorneys also pointed to what they say is selective prosecution. In the filing, the defense argues that federal authorities have pursued James “while ignoring apparent inconsistencies in the mortgage records of numerous other public officials.” They argue that the conduct described in the indictment mirrors the actions of several prominent political figures who were never investigated or charged. “The only meaningful difference between AG James and these individuals is that AG James is a Democratic Attorney General who spoke out against the President, while the others are his allies and cabinet members,” the motion claims. The filing draws a comparison to the prosecution of James Comey who has also pleaded not guilty and has argued the case against him was driven by retaliation. Both prosecutions were handled by U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan, a relatively unknown Trump appointee with no prior prosecutorial record. Halligan was named to the role after the administration forced out the previous U.S. Attorney, Erik Siebert, who had overseen both matters but never filed charges. After Siebert’s departure, Trump posted on social media urging Attorney General Pam Bondi to move forward with cases involving his political opponents, declaring that the administration “can’t delay any longer, it’s killing our reputation and credibility,” and “JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!” James, the first woman ever elected New York Attorney General, has long been on Trump’s radar, particularly following her successful civil case accusing him of inflating property values to defraud lenders. The ruling resulted in a massive judgment against Trump and his company, but was later thrown out on appeal. Promotional Content Letitia James Tries to Toss Mortgage Fraud Case, Blames Trump

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 10pm on November 7th after reports of a group of at least 50 juveniles armed with knives fighting in Buffalo. The 911 caller stated that the 50+ juveniles were actively fighting, most armed with knives. It is unknown if there were any injuries. Police responded to the scene. There was no information on if any of the juveniles were arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: 911 Caller Reports Over 50 Juveniles Armed with Knives Fighting

Niagara Falls Police say a stolen vehicle carrying two 14-year-olds crashed Wednesday night after the driver refused to pull over, leaving a teenage passenger injured and a police vehicle damaged. Around 9pm on November 6th, officers attempted to stop a 2020 Kia Sportage after observing several vehicle and traffic violations. The driver did not comply and continued eastbound on Niagara Street. As the vehicle approached Portage Road it struck a telephone pole at Osborne Court, spun, and rolled head-on into a marked police cruiser. The impact with the pole ejected a 14-year-old female passenger from the vehicle. She was transported to Oishei Children’s Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The 14-year-old male driver was taken to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center for evaluation and appeared uninjured. The officer in the patrol car reported wrist pain but did not seek immediate medical treatment. Police later confirmed the Kia had been reported stolen by its owner. The Niagara Falls Police Crash Investigation Unit processed the scene and the Juvenile Division is handling potential criminal charges as the investigation continues. Promotional Content Police Chase Ends with 14-year-old Female Passenger Ejected from Stolen Vehicle

LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call in the evening hours of November 7th around 11:30pm after reports of a possible hostage situation at Wegmans on Military Road in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - a third party at Wegmans - stated that a female was being held hostage. The male who was allegedly holding the woman hostage was driving a blue Subaru. Another call came in afterward stating that the suspect was in the area of 10th and Ferry avenue. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the vehicle was located and/or what the condition was of the woman. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations based on police audio and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content AUDIO: 911 Call Reported Possible Hostage Situation at Wegmans

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 400 block of 3rd Street around 4pm on November 5th after reports of indecent exposure. Upon arrival, officers observed a female pleasuring a male – later identified as Eddie Figueroa – with her hand. Officers informed both individuals to stop what they were doing. The female was visibly intoxicated, slurring her words, and unable to stand up by herself. AMR was requested for a 22.09 (emergency services for intoxicated person). Officers were attempting to assist the female stand up straight when Figueroa put his hand on an officers’ chest, preventing him from assisting her. At this time, Figueroa was placed under arrest by force. The female was transported by AMR to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center and placed on 22.09 paperwork. Figueroa was placed under arrest and transported to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center to be processed. He was released on an appearance ticket. Promotional Content Police Find Drunk Woman Giving Male Hand Job in Public