Latest News

April 3, 2026

  1. Jamestown Resident Receives Seven-Year Federal Sentence in Fentanyl and Cocaine Case: A 53-year-old Jamestown woman has been sentenced to seven years in federal prison for participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy involving fentanyl and cocaine. The conviction followed extensive investigations, searches, and controlled purchases by federal authorities in 2023 and 2024. During these searches, cash, drugs, firearms, and paraphernalia were recovered, and two law enforcement officers were exposed to fentanyl, with one requiring medical care. Prosecutors determined that significant drug proceeds were involved in the case. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Apr 3)

March 16, 2026

  1. Jamestown Resident Admits Role in Fentanyl Distribution and Sex Trafficking Scheme: A 43-year-old Jamestown man has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to a sex trafficking operation and fentanyl distribution conspiracy. Prosecutors detailed that between October and December 2022, the man collaborated with others to provide shelter and drugs to vulnerable individuals, who were then forced to engage in commercial sex acts. He aided in arranging buyers, advertising online, and transporting victims, receiving drugs as compensation. His sentencing is pending following the plea. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 16)

March 12, 2026

  1. Jamestown Resident Admits to Federal Sex Trafficking and Drug Charges: A Jamestown man has pleaded guilty in federal court to managing a drug trafficking operation and coercing multiple women into commercial sex acts. Zaid Mendoza, 47, acknowledged that his activities involved distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin with the help of associates, and he forced women with drug dependencies into sex trafficking. Authorities seized drugs, cash, and firearms from his West Main Street home during the investigation. Mendoza faces sentencing for narcotics conspiracy and sex trafficking charges. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Mar 12)

January 12, 2026

  1. Jamestown Congressional Office Temporarily Shuts Due to Threats Against Staff: Representative Nick Langworthy has temporarily closed his district office in Jamestown following several threats aimed at him and his staff. The decision was announced on Monday, citing safety concerns as the primary reason for the closure. Details about the nature of the threats were not disclosed. The office's closure will remain in effect while authorities address the situation. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 12)

January 9, 2026

  1. Federal Funding Granted for Water Infrastructure Improvements in Western New York: Communities in Western New York are set to benefit from $3.6 million in federal funding aimed at upgrading water infrastructure. The allocated funds will be used to replace lead pipes, enhance access to clean drinking water, and improve wastewater management systems. These investments are part of broader efforts to modernize local water systems and address public health concerns associated with aging infrastructure. The funding comes through federal spending measures expected to advance in Congress. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 9)

  2. Jamestown Resident Faces Federal Charges for Alleged Threats Against Officer: A Jamestown man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of threatening a federal law enforcement officer and making threats across state lines. Authorities reported that the indictment involves 43-year-old Matthew White, who is accused of intending to assault a federal agent. The case was announced by federal officials following the grand jury's decision. Legal proceedings are expected to continue as the charges are addressed in court. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 9)

December 13, 2025

  1. Adeline Lynn Leech, Longtime Rye Teacher and Sailor, Dies at 81: Adeline "Lynn" Leech, who enjoyed a long career as a kindergarten teacher at Rye Country Day School and was active in the Rye community, died at the age of 81 on December 10. Leech participated in local organizations including the American Yacht Club, Rye Presbyterian Church, and United Hospital Twig during her years in Rye, New York. She later moved to Massachusetts and Connecticut, where she and her husband spent years sailing and volunteering as Pilots at Mystic Seaport. Leech is survived by her family and will be remembered for her community involvement. (Source: MyRye.com on Dec 13)

December 9, 2025

  1. Interstate 86 in Tioga County Upgraded Following $47 Million Project: The state of New York has completed a $47 million reconstruction of a six-mile section of Interstate 86 in Tioga County. The project focused on resurfacing the Southern Tier Expressway and refurbishing two bridges over Apalachin Creek in the Town of Owego. These improvements are expected to enhance both safety and connectivity for drivers and businesses in the Southern Tier. The upgraded highway now meets full interstate standards and supports regional accessibility. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 9)

December 8, 2025

  1. Jamestown Resident Indicted on Federal Sex Trafficking, Kidnapping, and Drug Charges: Edward E. Leeper, Jr., also known as Edward E. Barnes, Jr., a 47-year-old man from Jamestown, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges that include sex trafficking, kidnapping, and drug distribution. The indictment alleges that he trafficked or attempted to traffic eight victims over a five-year period, employing force and threats. Leeper is accused of maintaining a drug-involved premises in Jamestown and distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 90 years in prison. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Dec 8)

November 18, 2025

  1. Four-Year-Old Girl Dies After Being Struck by School Bus in Jamestown: A four-year-old girl was fatally injured on Monday morning when she was hit by a Panama Central School bus near Fletcher Elementary School in Jamestown. The incident occurred shortly after 8 a.m. at the intersection of Cole Avenue and Whitehill Avenue. Authorities responded quickly, but the girl did not survive her injuries. The community is grieving as police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Nov 18)

November 3, 2025

  1. Fire & Ice Celebration Scheduled for Watkins Glen, Clayton, and Celoron in 2026: The Fire & Ice Celebration will return to three waterfront hotels in New York State in early 2026, including locations in Watkins Glen, Clayton, and Celoron. These winter events feature ice sculptures, fire pits, themed drinks, and live entertainment, offering visitors a unique seasonal experience. Each celebration will benefit a different local charity, with proceeds supporting pediatric cancer, veterans, or child advocacy groups. Dates are set for each location with distinctive festivities planned. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 3)

October 29, 2025

  1. FLCC Men's Soccer Secures Top Seed in NJCAA Region III Tournament: The Finger Lakes Community College men's soccer team has earned the top seed in the NJCAA Region III Tournament following a successful regular season. Finishing with a 15-1-1 record, the Lakers lead the nation in goals, assists, and shutouts, and remain unbeaten in their last 12 games. Key players include Robin Giesing, who leads Division III with 28 goals, and strong contributions have come from multiple teammates. FLCC aims to defend its regional title and advance to the NJCAA North A District Championship. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 25)