In his February newsletter, Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard detailed a hectic January for the sheriff’s office, marked by critical public safety developments, personnel transitions, and significant training programs.
Sheriff Allard recounted attending both state and national sheriff’s conferences, where pressing concerns such as human trafficking, fentanyl smuggling, and illegal border crossings were discussed. These meetings included key briefings from agencies like Customs and Border Patrol and presentations from national leaders such as Tom Homan, ICE’s “Border Czar.” Allard, part of committees on School Safety and Public Outreach, also joined delegations meeting with Senators Schumer and Gillibrand and members of Congress to address public safety issues in New York.
On the home front, the department bid farewell to Investigator Don Lewis, a 27-year veteran and former Deputy Sheriff of the Year, who was appointed Chief of Police for the Village of Bath. Lewis, a recognized expert in phone data extraction and assistant SWAT commander, will continue his work with K9 Jack on arson investigations.
Meanwhile, the sheriff’s office expanded its training efforts. Sergeants Angelo Sciotti and Kevin Ames, along with other officers, completed specialized training courses including ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) and interview and interrogation methods. Additionally, several officers were promoted or sworn into new roles, with Correction Officer Branden Erskine taking on the position of Correction Sergeant.
The office also tackled a significant workload, managing investigations across a wide range of crimes. These included multiple assault and larceny cases, as well as investigations into stolen property, narcotics, and sex offenses. Patrol deputies were equally busy with domestic incidents, mental health detainments, and emergency responses. The office also handled three arrests for intoxicated or impaired driving.
Throughout the month, the sheriff’s office received commendations for its handling of cases and overall service. Sheriff Allard expressed his gratitude to the community for its continued support and urged residents to remain safe as the agency faces ongoing public safety challenges.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].