Latest News
January 1, 2026
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Steuben County Activates Code Blue Warming Center in Bath for Winter: Steuben County officials have activated the Code Blue protocol, opening a warming center in the Town of Bath to assist residents without shelter as winter temperatures fall below 32 degrees. Operated by Bridge to Hope, the center can accommodate up to 20 individuals and provides beds, meals, showers, laundry facilities, and transportation. This service is available through April 30, ensuring support during the coldest months. Residents needing shelter can contact local social services or use the 2-1-1 Helpline. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 1)
December 23, 2025
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Savona Resident Faces Felony Weapon Charges After Deer Shooting Investigation: A 42-year-old Savona man was arrested after a New York State Police investigation into a roadside deer shooting uncovered felony-level weapons offenses. Authorities responded to State Route 226 in Bath, Steuben County, following reports of an injured deer and learned a handgun had been used. James A. Labarr, who has a prior felony conviction, was found to have possessed and fired a loaded handgun. He was later arrested at his home and charged with multiple felony weapon offenses. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 23)
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Geneva Resident Arrested for Alleged Threat Against Bath Central School District: A woman from Geneva has been charged with a felony following an alleged threat directed at the Bath Central School District. Authorities responded by placing the district on lockout as a precaution during the investigation. Law enforcement officials continue to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. The case underlines the importance of prompt action in maintaining school safety. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Dec 22)
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Addison Resident Arrested After Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Charges in Bath: A 51-year-old Addison man was arrested by New York State Police following a late-night stop in Bath, Steuben County. Authorities initiated the stop on State Route 415 after observing a vehicle with a loud exhaust and learning the registered owner’s license was suspended. The driver, later identified as Joseph R. Saltsman, reportedly provided false identification before troopers found suspected narcotics and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. Saltsman faces multiple drug-related and impersonation charges. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 23)
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Addison Resident Arrested in Bath for Multiple Drug and Vehicle Violations: A 51-year-old Addison man was taken into custody by New York State Police after a late-night traffic stop in Bath. Authorities observed a vehicle with a loud exhaust on State Route 415, leading to the arrest. The individual faces several charges related to drug possession and vehicle violations following further investigation at the scene. The case will proceed through the Steuben County legal system. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 23)
December 20, 2025
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Geneva Woman Charged After Threat Leads to Bath School Lockout: A Geneva woman was arrested after authorities say she made a threat against the Bath Haverling School District in Steuben County. The incident occurred on December 19, triggering a lockdown and drawing a response from multiple law enforcement agencies. Police traced the call to Ontario County, where they arrested 36-year-old Carrie McChesney and charged her with making a terroristic threat, a class D felony. The school district and police coordinated to resolve the situation promptly. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 20)
December 19, 2025
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Bath School District Lockout Follows Threatening Call; Geneva Woman Arrested: The Bath Central School District in the Finger Lakes region went into lockout mode on Friday after authorities received a threatening phone call traced to a Geneva woman. Steuben County 911 identified the source of the call as originating in Ontario County, and law enforcement responded quickly to ensure student safety. The individual was taken into custody without further incident. School activities resumed as normal after the situation was resolved. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 19)
December 14, 2025
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Penn Yan Police Department Promotes Officer to Sergeant: The Penn Yan Police Department has promoted Officer Tyler Brzezinski to the rank of sergeant. Brzezinski began his service with the department in 2021 after completing his training at the Alfred State Police Academy. Prior to joining the force, he graduated from Haverling High School in Bath. The promotion reflects his ongoing commitment to public safety in the local community. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 14)
December 12, 2025
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Bath Man Arrested and Charged in Child Sexual Abuse and Surveillance Case: Bath Village Police arrested a 44-year-old man, Scott G. Watkins, following a lengthy investigation into a reported sexual offense involving a child. The case centers on an incident from August at a residence on East William Street. Watkins faces multiple felony charges, including attempted rape, sexual abuse, criminal sex act, and unlawful surveillance. Authorities processed Watkins and he was eventually released on bail after an initial court appearance. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 12)
December 11, 2025
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Penn Yan Police Department Promotes Tyler Brzezinski to Sergeant: The Penn Yan Police Department has announced the promotion of Tyler Brzezinski to the position of sergeant. Brzezinski joined the department in 2021 after completing training at the Alfred State Police Academy and is an alumnus of Haverling High School, Corning Community College, and Saint Bonaventure University. Since joining the force, he has demonstrated consistent dedication and has been recognized as a valuable member of the team. His promotion reflects his contributions to both the department and the local community. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 11)
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Bath Man Faces Charges for Attempted Assault and Secret Recordings: Authorities in Bath have arrested a local man after several months of investigation into allegations of sexual offenses. Scott Watkins is charged with attempted rape, sexual abuse, a criminal sex act, and multiple counts of unlawful surveillance. Police accuse him of attempting to assault a sleeping girl and unlawfully recording other individuals without their knowledge. Watkins remains in custody as the legal process moves forward. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 11)
December 10, 2025
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Bath Resident Arrested After Nighttime Disturbance Results in Assault Charge: A Bath man was arrested following a late-night altercation on December 5 that resulted in injuries and property damage on Evergreen Street. Police arrived at the scene around 9:30 p.m. to find several individuals involved in a fight. David Lauer, age 33, was accused of striking another person and damaging the victim's property. He was charged with third-degree assault and fourth-degree criminal mischief, processed, and later released from Steuben County Jail. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 10)
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Thousands of Wreaths Arrive at Bath National Cemetery for Annual Tribute: A delivery of 4,350 wreaths reached Bath National Cemetery this week as part of the Wreaths Across America initiative. Volunteers, veterans, and local families gathered despite cold weather to receive the shipment, which will be used to honor veterans laid to rest at the cemetery. The annual event, which started in 1992, brings the community together in remembrance and support for those who served. Preparations are now underway for the laying of wreaths at each grave. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 10)
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Bath Police Respond to Disturbance, Charge Local Resident With Assault: Authorities in Bath intervened after receiving reports of a disturbance on Evergreen Street involving several individuals. Police arrived at the scene to find multiple people engaged in an altercation. After an investigation, officers identified and arrested a village resident on assault charges. No information regarding injuries or additional arrests has been disclosed. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 10)
December 3, 2025
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Steuben County Deputies Organize Holiday Toy and Coat Drive for Local Children: Steuben County Sheriff's deputies will hold their annual "Toys for Tots Fill the Patrol Car" and "Coats for Kids" drive on Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Erwin and Hornell Walmart plazas. The initiative is aimed at collecting new, unwrapped toys and gently used children’s coats for children in need throughout Steuben County. Donations of coats will benefit school districts, while toys will be distributed to local families. Additional drop-off locations include the Sheriff's Office and County Office Building in Bath. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 3)
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Cayuga Medical Center Nurses Begin Unionization Process: Nurses at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca have initiated a unionization campaign in collaboration with the Communications Workers of America. The effort seeks to represent approximately 350 nurses, addressing issues such as staff shortages, burnout, stagnant salaries, and reduced benefits. Organizers reported significant backing, with about 73% of nurses signing union cards, and have filed for an election with the National Labor Relations Board. This move follows a decade after a previous unsuccessful unionization attempt at the hospital. (Source: The Ithaca Voice on Dec 3)
November 28, 2025
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Bath Police Investigate Severe Animal Neglect After Cats Found in Home: Authorities in Bath have launched an investigation following the discovery of more than two dozen ailing and deceased cats in a Pine Street home. The Bath Police Department responded last Friday after receiving a report concerning the welfare of a large number of cats at the residence. Officers found multiple animals living in unhealthy conditions, prompting an animal cruelty case. The situation is being addressed by local law enforcement. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 28)
November 25, 2025
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Village of Bath Receives $1 Million Grant for New Fire Rescue Truck: The Village of Bath has secured a $1 million grant to acquire a new rescue truck for the Bath Volunteer Fire Department. The funding, obtained through the efforts of local officials and engineering support, is intended to improve emergency response services while reducing financial pressure on taxpayers. Village leaders believe the new vehicle will strengthen public safety throughout Bath and neighboring communities. The rescue truck is expected to begin service following its acquisition. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 25)
November 22, 2025
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Steuben County Deputies Organize Holiday Toy and Coat Drive for Local Children: Deputies from the Steuben County Sheriff's Office are launching their annual holiday donation drive on December 6. The event invites residents to donate new toys and children's coats at the Erwin and Hornell Walmart plazas from 10 a.m. to noon, benefiting local children in need. For those unable to attend, donation boxes are available at the Sheriff's Office lobby and the County Office Building in Bath. The collected items will support area families through the Toys for Tots program and local schools. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 22)
November 21, 2025
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Corning Man Charged in Bath Taco Bell Burglary After Investigation: A Corning resident was arrested following an investigation into a burglary that occurred at a Taco Bell in Bath on August 11, 2025. Authorities report the suspect, previously employed at the restaurant, entered the location on West Morris Street and stole more than $3,000 from the safe before attempting to delete security footage. The individual was charged with third-degree burglary, third-degree grand larceny, and tampering with physical evidence. He was processed and later released without bail after arraignment. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 21)
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Bath Woman Charged After Filing False Attempted Sexual Assault Report: A 39-year-old resident of Bath was arrested following an investigation into her report of an attempted sexual assault, which police later determined to be unfounded. The incident was reported on November 14, 2025, at Geneva Street. Authorities charged the woman with making a false written statement and falsely reporting an incident, both misdemeanors. She was processed, released on an appearance ticket, and is expected to appear in Bath Village Court. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 21)
November 18, 2025
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Bath Woman Charged After Dog Dies in Vacant Apartment on Howell Street: A woman in Bath, New York, faces aggravated cruelty to animals charges following the death of a dog left in an apartment on Howell Street. Police responded to a report of a deceased dog on November 12 and determined the animal had been abandoned in the residence. The investigation led officers to charge the animal’s owner, highlighting concerns about local animal welfare. Authorities are continuing their review of the incident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 18)
November 17, 2025
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Bath Awarded $2 Million to Replace Lead Water Pipes: The Village of Bath will receive $2 million in state and federal funding to replace 100 lead service lines within its water system. This financial support, provided through New York's LIFT program and the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aims to improve water safety and ease costs for residents. The initiative is part of a broader statewide push to eliminate lead pipes and modernize infrastructure. Local leaders expect the project to reduce health risks and support construction jobs in the community. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 3)
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Rye City Hall Marks Veterans Day 2025 With Well-Attended Ceremony: Rye City Hall hosted a Veterans Day ceremony on November 11, 2025, drawing a full audience from the local community. The event featured remarks from American Legion Post 128 Commander Fred de Barros, Mayor Josh Cohn, Congressman George Latimer, and State Assemblyman Steve Otis. Sabrina Murphy, CEO of Rye YMCA, served as the principal speaker and acknowledged the ongoing commitment of veterans. Community organizations participated in commemorating the contributions of military servicemembers. (Source: MyRye.com on Nov 13)
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Bath Man Charged in Theft of Donation Box from Local Business: Police in Bath arrested Warren Hoffman, 61, following allegations that he stole money from an SPCA donation box at a local business in October. Hoffman faces charges including petit larceny, fourth-degree criminal mischief, and criminal possession. The incident marks a repeated offense involving charitable contributions in the village. Authorities took Hoffman into custody last week after their investigation. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 3)
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Bath Woman Charged After Dog Dies from Starvation in Apartment: A woman from Bath has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty after police found a dead pit bull mix locked in a crate without food or water in a Howell Street apartment. Authorities responded on November 12 and discovered the animal had died of starvation, despite a bag of dog food being nearby but out of reach. The former tenant, identified as Kassidy Hall, was arrested two days later and released with an appearance ticket, as current state laws do not require bail for the charge. She will appear in Bath Village Court at a date yet to be announced. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 17)
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Bath Resident Charged After SPCA Donation Box Theft and Drug Possession Incident: A 61-year-old Bath man was arrested after police say he stole money from a Finger Lakes SPCA donation box at a local Tractor Supply store and was later found with a small amount of crack cocaine. Authorities responded to the report of theft on West Morris Street on October 9 and identified the suspect, though he was not immediately located. The man was apprehended on October 30 on Wilkes Avenue, facing misdemeanor charges related to larceny, criminal mischief, and drug possession. He was processed and released from Steuben County Jail. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 1)
November 13, 2025
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LP Building Solutions Expands Bath Facility and Reaches Workplace Safety Record: LP Building Solutions has expanded its Bath, NY facility two years after it opened, increasing paved storage and improving infrastructure to enhance inventory and delivery operations. The plant, which pre-finishes siding for residential use, now employs 75 workers and recently achieved 145,000 consecutive hours without an injury. Siding sales grew by 5% in the past quarter, contributing an additional $22 million in revenue. The Bath site is integral to distributing LP’s SmartSide products regionally. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 13)
November 1, 2025
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Steuben County Army Veteran Inducted Into New York Senate Veterans Hall of Fame: Scott Ward, a retired lieutenant colonel from Steuben County, was recently inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. The ceremony, held at the Bath American Legion Post 173, recognized his decades of service both in the military and in local public roles. Ward's military career included leadership assignments in Iraq and Afghanistan and contributions to training thousands of U.S. soldiers. His recognition highlights a continued commitment to country and community. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 1)
October 31, 2025
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Two Individuals Indicted for Witness Tampering in Steuben County Case: A man from Bath and a woman from Prattsburgh have been indicted in Steuben County on charges related to witness tampering and criminal contempt following a New York State Police investigation. Authorities allege that Tammy J. Havens contacted a protected victim on behalf of Terry C. Long, who directed her actions while incarcerated. Both individuals face multiple charges, including bribing a witness and criminal facilitation. Orders of protection have been issued as the legal process proceeds. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 31)
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Bath VA Medical Center to Host Nursing Career Fair With Major Sign-On Bonuses: The Bath VA Medical Center is planning a nursing career fair on November 12, where sign-on incentives of up to $15,000 will be available for new hires. The event, which takes place from 2 to 7 p.m. at the facility’s Community Living Center, is aimed at registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nursing assistants. Attendees can participate in same-day interviews and learn about open positions and benefits. Registration is not required for those interested in attending. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 31)
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Steuben County Veteran Scott Ward Honored in New York Senate Veterans Hall of Fame: Scott Ward, a distinguished U.S. Army veteran from Steuben County, was recently inducted into the New York Senate Veterans Hall of Fame at a ceremony held at Bath American Legion Post 173. State Senator Tom O'Mara recognized Ward for his dedicated military service and longstanding involvement in regional organizations. Ward's contributions have made a significant impact both in the military and within the Steuben County community. The honor highlights his enduring commitment to veterans' causes. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 31)
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Bath Police Seek Public Assistance in Locating Missing 17-Year-Old: The Bath Police Department is requesting help from the community to locate Bailie Lanham, a 17-year-old who has left home. Authorities report that Lanham, a resident of Bath, may be in the Corning area or possibly attempting to travel elsewhere. Police have initiated an investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The case remains open as officers continue their search efforts. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 31)
October 30, 2025
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Scott Ward to Be Inducted Into NY Senate Veterans Hall of Fame in Bath Ceremony: Steuben County native and U.S. Army veteran Scott Ward will be recognized as a 2025 inductee into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. The ceremony, hosted by State Senator Tom O'Mara, is scheduled for October 30 at the Bath American Legion. Ward, a decorated Army veteran, serves on the Bath Central School District Board of Education and is Vice President of the Steuben County Farm Bureau. He is among approximately 60 veterans honored statewide for their service and community involvement. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 30)
October 29, 2025
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Rye to Hold Veterans Day Ceremony at City Hall with YMCA CEO as Speaker: The City of Rye and American Legion Post 128 will host their annual Veterans Day ceremony on November 11, 2025, at Rye City Hall. The event, led by Post Commander Fred de Barros, will feature Sabrina Murphy, CEO of the Rye YMCA, as the keynote speaker. The ceremony will honor local veterans and may移 (Source: MyRye.com on Oct 19)
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Bath Woman Faces Felony Charges After Standoff With Police at Local Motel: Authorities in Bath responded to a violent standoff at the Budget Inn on October 26, initiated during a welfare check involving a 40-year-old woman. The individual allegedly became combative, injuring an officer with a sharp object during the incident. Police ultimately subdued her after she barricaded herself, leading to charges including assault, menacing, and weapons possession. The officer's injuries were treated at the scene, and the suspect was later hospitalized before jail booking. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 29)
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Haudenosaunee Storyteller Engages More Than 35 Classrooms in Finger Lakes Region: Perry Ground, a Haudenosaunee storyteller and educator, is bringing Indigenous history to over 35 classrooms in the Finger Lakes region through a partnership with the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum. From September to January, these live storytelling sessions are held in schools from Canandaigua to Hammondsport and are tailored to New York's fourth-grade social studies curriculum. Students actively participate during the performances, which explore Haudenosaunee traditions and their relevance today. Grant funding supported the museum's outreach efforts. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 29)
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Rochester Man Arrested in Bath After Erratic Driving and Fentanyl Discovery: A 39-year-old Rochester man was arrested in the Village of Bath on October 27 following an incident involving erratic driving and a domestic dispute on State Route 415 South. Police responded to reports of a vehicle driving dangerously and determined an argument between occupants led to the behavior. During the stop, authorities found fentanyl in the possession of Anthony R. Jackson, who faces a drug possession charge and had outstanding felony warrants. He was ticketed and later transferred to authorities for the warrants. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 29)
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Bath resident faces DWI charge following traffic stop on West Morris Street: A 58-year-old Bath resident was arrested earlier this month after local police observed erratic driving on West Morris Street. Officers reported that the vehicle was swerving and violating traffic regulations, prompting a stop on October 5 in the evening. The driver was suspected of being under the (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 23)
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Bath Man Arrested for Criminal Trespass After Resident Finds Him in Apartment: A 24-year-old Bath resident, Richard O. Snyder, was arrested on the morning of October 27 after being discovered inside another person's apartment on Pine Street. The police were called for a reported burglary in progress when the tenant returned home to find Snyder inside. Upon investigation, authorities charged Snyder with second-degree criminal trespass, a Class A misdemeanor. He was processed, arraigned at Steuben County Jail, and subsequently released. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 29)
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Rochester Man Arrested After Reported Rolling Domestic Incident in Steuben County: Authorities in Steuben County responded to reports of an erratic driver and a possible rolling domestic dispute entering the village of Bath on Monday afternoon. The incident led to the arrest of a man from Rochester after law enforcement located the vehicle. Details about the circumstances leading up to the arrest were not immediately provided. The situation concluded with the suspect in custody and no further disturbances reported. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 29)
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Bath Resident Arrested for Trespassing After Incident on Pine Street: Police in Bath responded to a report of a possible burglary in progress early Monday morning when a resident discovered an unfamiliar man inside his Pine Street home. Officers arrived at the scene and arrested the individual on charges of tres pass, confirming that the suspect did not have permission to be in the residence. Authorities have not released additional details on the circumstances surrounding the incident. The investigation into the matter remains ongoing. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 29)
October 23, 2025
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Bath resident faces charge after attempting to evade police on electric bike: A 63-year-old man from Bath was arrested after reportedly trying to avoid police officers while riding an electric bicycle in the village. Authorities say the individual was recognized as a suspect from an earlier complaint. When officers approached to speak with him, he attempted to flee the scene. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 23)
October 20, 2025
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Bath resident charged with repeated violations of court order: A 40-year-old Bath man was arrested in Steuben County after authorities allege he violated an order of protection over 150 times within a month. The individual faces a felony charge of first-degree criminal contempt and was released following arraignment. Local agencies assisted in the investigation (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 20)
October 18, 2025
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Bath Resident Arrested for Repeated Violations of Protection Order: A 40-year-old man from Bath was taken into custody by Steuben County authorities for allegedly breaching a court-issued order of protection over 150 times between August 19 and September 15. The individual is accused of making repeated contact with the protected party despite legal restrictions. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Oct 18)