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Yearly Archives: 2024

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Carlos Orellana Mata

Carlos Orellana Mata was Intoxicated When He Crashed into Back of a Tractor- Trailer, Killing His Passenger

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on May 8 that Carlos Orellana Mata, 36, of East Northport, pleaded guilty to Aggravated Vehicular Homicide after driving while being intoxicated and speeding into the back of a tractor- trailer, killing his passenger, 22-year-old Lenel Umana Guitierrez Lopez, of East Northport.

“This defendant was operating a vehicle while being twice the legal limit of drinking and in the process, claimed the life of yet another young Suffolk County victim,” said District Attorney Tierney. “We see this far too often where people are losing their lives through the carelessness of others on the roadways and aggrieved families are left without a loved one because of someone else’s lapse in judgement. This has to stop.”

According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, on March 18, 2023, at approximately 12:17 a.m., Orellana Mata was driving a 2015 Infiniti QX60 SUV eastbound on Jericho Turnpike in Elwood when he crashed into the rear of a tractor trailer, killing Guitierrez Lopez upon impact. When Police officers arrived, they observed Orellana Mata still in the driver’s seat of the vehicle with slurred speech and bloodshot glassy eyes. Orellana Mata was extricated from the vehicle and transported to Good Samaritan Hospital, where he consented to toxicology testing which subsequently revealed a .15% blood alcohol concentration.

A search warrant was also obtained to seize blood taken earlier by hospital staff upon the defendant’s admittance to the hospital, which revealed a .20% blood alcohol concentration. A search warrant executed on the defendant’s car revealed that he was traveling over 80 mph prior to the collision.

On May 8, 2024, Orellana Mata pleaded guilty before County Court Judge Stephen L. Braslow for the charges of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, a Class B felony, Manslaughter in the Second Degree, a Class C felony, and Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, an unclassified misdemeanor. Orellana Mata is due back in court for sentencing on August 7, 2024, and faces three to nine years in prison. He is being represented by Christopher Gioe, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Ray Varuolo of the Vehicular Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Suffolk County Police Department Detective Sean McQuaid of the Major Case Unit.

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Chelsey Murray

Jaquan Casserly Pleaded Guilty in April to Selling Chelsea Murray Illicit Drugs Which Resulted in Her Death

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that Jaquan Casserly, 34, of Holbrook, was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty in April to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, for selling fentanyl to Chelsey Murray, 31, of Lake Grove, that resulted in her fatal overdose in 2022.

“This defendant is responsible for cutting a 31-year-old woman’s life short by selling her a deadly mix of fentanyl and heroin,” said District Attorney Tierney. “His conviction and sentence remove a dangerous individual from the streets of Suffolk County, but there is more work to be done. I will continue to stand by Chelsey Murray’s heartbroken parents as I urge lawmakers to pass Chelsey’s Law, which provides additional penalties for causing overdose deaths.”

Chelsey’s parents, Gene and Sue Murray recently joined District Attorney Tierney in Albany in January 2024 to call for New York State lawmakers to pass Chelsey’s Law, which if passed, would allow prosecutors to charge a drug dealer with manslaughter or aggravated manslaughter, for knowingly selling a drug that causes a victim to fatally overdose. Click here to view the press release from the January 2024 Albany rally.

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According to court documents and the defendant’s admissions during his guilty plea allocution, on August 18, 2022, Chelsey was found unresponsive in the bathroom by her mother, and police responded to the Murray’s residence. Chelsey was administered Narcan, which works to reverse the effects of fentanyl, and she regained a pulse. Chelsey was then transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where she ultimately passed away several days later as a result of a drug overdose.

Following Chelsey’s hospitalization, an undercover detective from the Suffolk County Police Department contacted Casserly and arranged for a sale of narcotics. Casserly then sold the undercover detective a combination of heroin and fentanyl contained in a red glassine envelope, which police were able to establish was similar to the one that Chelsey’s father Gene found in the bathroom where Chelsey overdosed.

On August 27, 2022, police executed a search warrant at Casserly’s Holbrook residence and recovered a combination of heroin and fentanyl, a digital scale used to weigh narcotics, red and black glassine/wax envelopes used to package narcotics, a pair of metal knuckles, and Casserly’s cell phone. The red envelopes were similar in appearance to the ones sold to the undercover detective. A search of Casserly’s phone showed that he arranged to meet Chelsey on August 17, 2022, offering to sell her “fetty mix,” a street term used to describe a mix of fentanyl and heroin.

Prior to this case, Casserly was previously convicted of Attempted Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree in 2018, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree in 2011.

On April 5, 2024, Casserly pleaded guilty to Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, a Class B felony, before Acting Supreme Court Justice Steven A. Pilewski. On May 8, 2024, Casserly was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by three years of post-release supervision. He was represented by Christopher Brocato, Esq.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Danielle Davis of the Narcotics Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Michael DeMauro of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Narcotics Section.

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BIRDS-EYE VIEW The Bald Hill Fair in Farmingville (May 9 to 19) will feature ‘The Wheel,’ the largest Ferris wheel on Long Island at a towering 110 feet tall. Photo courtesy of Dreamland Amusements
Ongoing

Flip Circus at Smith Haven Mall

Flip Circus returns to the Smith Haven Mall in Lake Grove now through May 14.  Experience the magical moments under the red and white big top with trapeze artists, acrobats, jugglers and more! Showtimes are Monday to Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. For tickets visit www.flipcircus.com.

Bald Hill Fair

Dreamland Amusements brings the Bald Hill Fair to the Catholic Health Amphitheater, 1 Ski Run Lane, Farmingville from May 9 to 19 with whimsical kiddie rides, state-of-the-art thrill rides, entertaining midway games, and carnival eats. Fireworks by Grucci will be on May 11 and 18. Hours are Mondays to Thursdays from 5 to 10 p.m., Fridays from 5 to 11 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. For tickets in advance, visit www.baldhillfair.com.

Thursday May 9

Health & Wellness Fair

The Town of Brookhaven will host a Health and Wellness Fair at the Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 Route 25A, Mt. Sinai from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with free balance screenings, blood pressure screenings, food and nutrition education, cholesterol and glucose screenings and more with St. Charles Hospital. Free. For more information, call 631-451-5312.

Lunch & Learn

Huntington Historical Society continues its Lunch & Learn series with a special screening and discussion of I Now Take Up My Pen at the Conklin Barn, 2 High St., Huntington from noon to 2 p.m. Presented by the Port Jefferson Historical Society and  the Huntington Historical Society, the film tells the heart wrenching tale of two brothers from Huntington William and Jesse Platt, who served in different NYS Regiments from Long Island. Admission is $45 per person, $35 members and includes a wrap, salad, chips, dessert, and a beverage. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Mother’s Day lecture

Join the Whaling Museum of Cold Spring Harbor for an online lecture titled Oh Baby! Motherhood at Sea at 7 p.m. ​Get ready for Mother’s Day with this “What to Expect When you’re Expecting” — maritime edition! Explore the undertold yet remarkable experiences of pregnancies, childbirth, and the early years of raising a child for the brave 19th century whaling wives who went to sea. Adults only. Free, suggested donation of $10. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Friday May 10

Garden Club Plant Sale

The Centerport Garden Club will hold a plant sale in front of Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn form 9 to 11 a.m. Shop for well-tended plants donated by members from their own gardens. Rita Rover from the Long Island Chrysanthemum Society will be answering questions regarding exhibition mum growing and Anthony Marinello from Dropseed Native Plants will also be offering plants for sale.

A Taste of the Neighborhood

The Setauket Neighborhood House, 95 Main St., Setauket hosts its annual A Taste of the Neighborhood fundraiser from 7 to 10 p.m. Enjoy scrumptious food, beer and wine, music, raffle baskets and prizes. Tickets are $50 per person in advance, $60 at the door. Proceeds will be used for maintenance and beautification of the historic building. For further information, call 631-751-6208 or visit www.setauketneighborhoodhouse.com.

Game Night in St. James

Join Celebrate St. James for Game Night at the St. James Community Cultural Center, 176 Second St., St. James from 7 to 10 p.m.  Enjoy board games, card games and pizza. $10 donation. To register, visit www.celebratestjames.org.

Fractured Broadway 3 Concert

Friday and Saturday, May 10 & 11 @ 7:30 pm. Riverhead Faculty and Community Theatre presents Fractured Broadway 3 at North Shore United Methodist Church, 260 Rte. 25A, Wading River tonight and May 11 at 7:30 p.m. Dan Grable accompanies RFCT singers on a fun romp through Broadway hits. Tickets are $20,  students $15. Reserve at 631-929-6075 or [email protected]

Grounds and Sounds Concert

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket hosts a Grounds and Sounds concert featuring Cole Fortier with doors opening at 7:30 p.m., open mic at 8 p.m. followed by featured artist. Tickets are $15 at www.groundsandsounds.org or at the door. 631-751-0297.

Northport Chorale Concert

Middleville Middle School, Middleville Road, Northport will present a concert by the Northport Chorale, “Spring of Dream,”  featuring the Northport Community Jazz Orchestra at 8 p.m. Ticket are $15 and can be purchased at the door. 631-261-1950.

Friday Night Face Off

Long Island’s longest running improv comedy show is coming to the Smithtown Performing Arts Center, 2 Main St., Smithtown tonight, May 17 and May 24 at 8 p.m. Join them for a “Who’s Line Is It Anyway?” style improv competition between the performers. Tickets are $26. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

Saturday May 11

Fractured Broadway 3 Concert

See May 10 listing.

Spring Mother’s Day Market

St Thomas of Canterbury Episcopal Church, 29 Brooksite Drive, Smithtown invites the community to a Spring Mother’s Day Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring 70 local artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, face painting, a visit from Sweetbriar Nature Center, and an animal rescue adoption event. For more information, call 631-265-4520.

CSHL Walking Tour

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor will host a guided walking tour of the campus from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Learn about the historic and modern architecture, the Nobel legacy, and the advanced cancer, neuroscience, and plant research taking place at the lab. Fee is $7.18 per person. To register, visit www.cshl.edu. 516-367-8844.

Northport Art and Craft Fair

Northport High School, 154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport presents its annual outdoor Spring Art and Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring over 125 vendors to find that perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Free admission. Event will be moved indoors in the case of rain. 631-846-1459

Spring Wildflower Walk

Join the staff at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown for a Spring Wildflower Walk from 10:30 a.m. to noon. See if you can identify these growing spring treasures with the help of a field guide. Adults only. $4 per person. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com. 631-265-1054

All Souls Poetry Reading

All Souls Church in Stony Brook will host a poetry reading via zoom from 11 a.m. to noon. The featured poet will be Nina Yavel. An open-reading will follow poet; all are welcome to read one of their own poems.  For more information, please call 631-655-7798.  Participants can access the program through the All Souls website https://www.allsouls-stonybrook.org/

An evening of comedy

The Comedy Club returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson at 8 p.m. Treat mom to a night of laughs and non-stop fun with comedians Dan Barry, Rich Walker, Rob Falcone and a surprise guest. Tickets are $40. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Sunday May 12

Mother’s Day at the LIM

In honor of Mother’s Day, the Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook will offer free admission to mothers and grandmothers from noon to 5 p.m. Explore the different art exhibits and the state of the art carriage museum. 631-751-0066

Benner’s Farm Concert

Good Earth Soundstage at Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket welcomes Bob Westcott and Gerry McKeveny in concert from 3 to 5 p.m. $15 donation at the door. Bring seating. Proceeds will benefit the artists and Homestead Arts for this year’s Fiddle & Folk Festival. 631-689-8172

Monday May 13

Sound Beach Civic Meeting

Sound Beach Fire Department, 152 Sound Beach Blvd., Sound Beach hosts a meeting by the Sound Beach Civic Association at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome. For more information call 631-744-6952.

Tuesday May 14

NSJC Social Club Event

North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a concert by Joe DiPiola at 11 a.m. Come dance to the live one-man band performing hits of
yesteryear. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737

Wednesday May 15

Cruise Night Car Show

The Shoppes at East Wind, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River hosts a Cruise Night Car Show every Wednesday through October from 5 to 9 p.m. Visit the Shoppes, enjoy a bite to eat and then check out the fine array of classic cars in the parking lot. 631-929-3500

Hard Luck Cafe Concert

Rod Abernethy and Abigall Dowd, both North Carolina-based singer-songwriters, share the bill during the monthly Hard Luck Café concert series co-presented by the Folk Music Society of Huntington and the Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington in the Cinema’s Sky Room from 7 to 10 p.m. An open mic precedes the concert. Tickets are $20 at www.cinemaartscentre.org or at the door.

Thursday May 16

Museum Day at the MCPL

Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach will hold its annual Museum Day celebration at the Museum Corner from  4 to 7 p.m. Representatives from 30 local museums, historical societies, science and nature centers will be on hand to share information regarding their collections, programs and exhibits. Free. 631-585-9393

Healing Haven Animal Foundation fundraiser

Revival By Toast, 242 East Main St., Port Jefferson hosts a Spring Into Health for Your Dog Celebration with Dr. Lynda Loudon from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Dr. Loudon will be speaking on the top 5 ways to increase your dog’s longevity and meet local canine business owners and professionals. Tickets are $28.52 per person and includes dinner, drinks and raffle tickets. All proceeds support the mission of Healing Haven Animal Foundation. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-into-health-for-your-dog-celebration-tickets-884306262837?aff=oddtdtcreator.  For more information, call 202-422-6782 or email: [email protected]

Film

‘We Are the Warriors’

Port Jefferson Documentary Series Spring line-up continues with a screening of We Are the Warriors at John F. Kennedy MIddle School, 200 Jayne Blvd., Port Jefferson Station on May 13 at 7 p.m. For nearly 70 years, students and alumni of Wells High School in Maine have called themselves the “Warriors.” The school’s mascot, variations of a stoic Native American head in profile with braids and feathered headband, has drawn both support and criticism in the past. However, during the 2017 fall athletic season, an incident shocks the town and reignites the debate. Followed by a Q&A with guest speakers Helen Sells and Robert Thompson, President and VP of the Setalcott Nation. Tickets are $10 in advance at www.portjeffdocumentaryseries.com or at the door (cash only). 

‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’

Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., presents a screening of Monty Python and the Holy Grail on May 15 at 7 p.m. A hysterical, historical tour-de-force from Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones, this cult classic comedy from the Monty Python team loosely follows the legend of King Arthur, along with his squire and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on a fearless quest in search of the elusive Holy Grail. Introduction by Film Historian Glenn Andreiev. Tickets are $16, $10 members. www.cinemaartscentre.org

Theater 

‘Antigone’

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport kicks off the 35th annual Shakespeare in the Courtyard Festival with Antigone by Sophocles from May 3 to 26. One of the finest examples of Greek Tragedy, Antigone follows the events of the Oedipus legend, wherein the title character displays great strength as she disobeys King Creon in an attempt to bury her brother in consecrated ground. Presented by the Carriage House Players, the show will take place in the mansion’s Spanish Revival Courtyard on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 seniors and children. To order, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

‘Jersey Boys’

Extended! John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents Jersey Boys, the story of Franki Valli & The Four Seasons, from March 14 to June 16. They were just 4 guys from Jersey until they sang their very first note–a sound the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage was a different story–a story that has made them a sensation all over again. Winner of the 2006 Tony© Award for “Best Musical,” Jersey Boys features the top ten hits “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night).” To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. 

‘The Producers’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Mel Brooks’ The Producers from May 18 to June 22. With something to offend everyone, the hilarious show-biz hit follows the antics of a pair of scheming Broadway producers with a plan to put on the biggest flop of all time. Featuring “If You’ve Got It, Flaunt It,” That Face,” “Keep It Gay,” and the outrageous “Springtime for Hitler,” The Producers is a side-splitting musical bliss. Contains adult humor and situations. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students, $25 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

Vendors Wanted

◆ Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road Setauket is now accepting vendors for the 10th annual Three Village Farmers & Artisans Market which will be held from May 3 to Oct. 25 (May to August from 3 to 7 p.m., September to October from 3 to 6 p.m. Fee is $650 for full season (25 weeks), $450 half season (12 weeks), $50 pop up per week, food trucks $50 per week. For an application, visit www.tvhs.org

◆ Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its annual Community Wide Yard Sale on May 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Each 10 x 10 space is up for grabs at $50, $35 members. Reserve your spot now at www.tvhs.org/yardsale. 631-751-3730

◆ Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville seeks food and flea market vendors for its Wild Treasures Market on June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8 and Oct. 13 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.wildlifesustainability.org/market for more information.

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Carol A. Carter, PhD, SUNY Distinguished Professor, elected to the National Academy of Sciences. Photo from SBU

Distinguished Professor has a long history of accomplishments in antiviral drug research

Carol A. Carter, PhD, SUNY Distinguished Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine (RSOM), was elected as a member to the U.S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS), a society made up of the country’s leading researchers.

According to NAS, members are elected to the National Academy of Sciences in recognition of their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research. Election to the National Academy of Sciences is considered one of the highest honors that a scientist can receive.

Carter is the eighteenth faculty member at Stony Brook University elected to the NAS. She is only the second elected member from the RSOM. World-renowned virologist and Emeritus Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology Eckard Wimmer was elected in 2012.

“Carol has been active in translational research and has exploited her discoveries for the identification of new antiviral compounds,” says David Thanassi, PhD, Professor and Zhang Family Endowed Chair of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. “Her research illustrates the power of basic science to lead to unexpected insights and generate new avenues for therapeutic development.”

At the NAS Annual Meeting on April 30, 120 new members were elected. This brings the total number of NAS members to 2,617 since the society’s inception in 1863. Members are elected by their peers for their outstanding research. Approximately 500 NAS members have earned a Nobel Prize.

“Frankly speaking, I’m stunned, thrilled and honored to be joining the company of those I have admired throughout my career,” says Carter. “This recognition from the Academy opens the door to the possibility of shining more light on feasible ways to approach targeting non-traditional cellular systems for drug discovery, systems that have long been exploited by viral pathogens for their production,” adds Carter, also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Physiology & Biophysics within the RSOM, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology.

Carter is best known as an early pioneer in HIV research. At the onset of the AIDS pandemic, she advanced understanding of the viral-encoded protease and purified the viral capsid protein for structural and biochemical studies. She has also conducted research on Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Virus-2 (SARS CoV-2), pathogens causing organ transplant rejection and COVID-19, respectively.

In 2001, her groundbreaking research, published in PNAS, identified an interaction between HIV and a host protein (Tsg101) that is essential for the assembly and budding of HIV viral particles from infected cells. Her findings opened a new field of research on host factors in microbial pathogenesis and suggested the possibility of targeting host proteins for developing antimicrobial therapeutics, with implications beyond HIV.

A resident of Stony Brook, Carter has also served as a member of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Advisory Council from 2007 to 2011. She received the Stony Brook University Presidential Award for Promoting Diversity and Academic Excellence in 2013, and the Suffolk County, N.Y., Martin Luther King Jr Commission Public Service Award in 2016.

Currently, she collaborates with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center staff and Stony Brook Faculty in the RSOM, the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, School of Health Professions, and the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, in efforts to mentor high school students interested in pursuing careers in health sciences professions.

She continues her research focus on several areas, including the role of cellular proteins in assembly of HIV and other members of the Retrovirus family; Tsg101 structure/function analysis; and antiviral drug development, to name a few.

Carol A. Carter received her PhD from Yale University in 1972. She has been a faculty member at Stony Brook University since 1975.

 

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Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright, center, named Andy Polan, left, as the Fifth Legislative District’s Jewish American of Distinction. Englebright and Polan are pictured with Rabbi Aaron Benson of North Shore Jewish Center. Photo courtesy of Leg. Englebright's office

Suffolk County Legislator Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) has named Andrew Polan as the Fifth Legislative District’s Jewish American of Distinction for 2024.

“Andy is a steadfast figure in the Three Village Jewish American community and the surrounding area,” Englebright said. “He is a beacon of dedication and service.”

Last year, Suffolk County officials designated the first Wednesday of May as Jewish American Heritage Day in Suffolk. Elected county officials in conjunction with the American Jewish Committee held a ceremony on Wednesday, May 1, at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge. Each county legislator chose a Jewish American of Distinction to represent their district.

Polan, a former North Shore Jewish Center board president, continues to be an active member of the congregation. Rabbi Aaron Benson fondly describes him as “an all-around mensch and a sweetheart.” Polan’s reputation is one of quiet and humble giving, always ready to lend a helping hand.

The honoree is also an active member of Village Chabad in East Setauket and is the board president of Stony Brook Hillel, which strives to give Stony Brook University students a community where they can explore their relationship with Judaism, Israel and each other.

The owner of Stony Brook Vision World, Polan is a member of the Three Village Chamber of Commerce and one of its past presidents. Among his accomplishments, he has been credited with facilitating the installation of the chamber’s sign on Nicolls Road and Route 347. He was also an ardent volunteer and supporter of the Walk for Beauty, which was held annually at Stony Brook Village Center. Proceeds from the event were donated to a targeted Stony Brook Medicine breast cancer research fund.

Polan follows in the footsteps of his father, Sheldon, who was also an optician. His father was a World War II vet, and in addition to serving his Vision World customers, Andy Polan is the resident optician at the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University. At the veterans home, he is known to go above and beyond to ensure the veterans’ eye care needs are met.

Polan said he was honored and flattered to be chosen by Englebright.

“At a time when unity is so important, I am honored to be recognized and included with others who have contributed so much to bringing others together,” Polan said.

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Randy Woods and Dwayne Jones Allegedly Stripped the Vehicles at Night

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on May 8 a 190-count indictment charging Randy Woods, 37, of Wyandanch and Dwayne Jones, 45, of Central Islip, for allegedly stealing tires and rims from 114 vehicles during the course of more than a year.

“Quality of life crimes have been a priority since day one of our administration, and this indictment reaffirms our dedication to them,” said District Attorney Ray Tierney. “More than 100 vehicle operators in Suffolk County parked their cars here only to return to them without tires and rims. These more than 100 victims had to suffer collateral damages from these crimes such as missed appointments, missed work, a missed vacation or a planned vacation in the immediate aftermath of these crimes. My commitment to tackling these types of crimes remains. If you steal other people’s property, we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”

“The National Insurance Crime Bureau would like to applaud the staff of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office and the investigators who tirelessly participated in this investigation. We are pleased that NICB had the opportunity to provide support,” said Kevin Gallagher, Regional Director of the Northeast Region of the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

“Individuals who prey on consumers by stealing tires and rims from vehicles, not only cause financial loss but disrupt every aspect of the consumer’s lives. These arrests demonstrate the commitment by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office to prosecute those responsible to the full extent of the law.”

According to the investigation, between July 1, 2022, and October 20, 2023, Woods and Jones allegedly targeted residents, car dealerships, and rental car companies across Suffolk County to steal tires and rims from several vehicles, with preference to vehicles from Honda, Toyota, Mercedes Benz, BMW, and black rims from SUVs. The total property damage in this case is estimated to be $500,000.

Woods was indicted on the following charges after stealing tires and rims from 52 automobiles:

  • Twenty-two counts of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, Class D felonies;
  • Five counts of Auto Stripping in the First Degree, Class D felonies;
  • Two counts of Auto Stripping in the Second Degree, Class E felonies;
  • Twelve counts of Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree, Class E felonies;
  • Twenty-seven counts of Auto Stripping in the Third Degree, Class A misdemeanors; and
  • One count of Conspiracy in the Fifth Degree, a Class A misdemeanor.

    Woods was arraigned on the indictment on May 7, 2024, before Supreme Court Justice John B. Collins who set bail in the amount of $100,000 cash, $1,000,000 bond, and $1,000,000 bond secured at ten percent. Woods is also being held in Suffolk County on previous charges of Strangulation in the Second Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree.

    Jones, was indicted on the following charges after stealing tires and rims from 101 automobiles:

    • Fifty-seven counts of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, Class D felonies;
    • Sixteen counts of Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree, Class E felonies;
    • Six counts of Auto Stripping in the First Degree, Class D felonies;
    • Five counts of Auto Stripping in the Second Degree, Class E felonies;
    • Fifty-two counts of Auto Stripping in the Second Degree, Class E felonies;
    • Twelve counts of Auto Stripping in the Third Degree, Class A misdemeanors; and
    • One count of Conspiracy in the Fifth Degree, a Class A misdemeanor.

      Jones is currently serving a jail sentence in Bergen County, New Jersey in a separate case involving the theft of tires and rims. He is being extradited back to Suffolk County to be arraigned on this indictment.

Woods is due back in court on June 14, 2024. As persistent felony offenders, Woods and Jones face a potential maximum sentence of 25 years to life of incarceration on these charges.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys James Bartens and Blythe Miller of the Financial Crimes Bureau, with assistance from Detective Michael Lavella of the Property Auto Crime Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department, Detective Michael Filippazzo of the Gun Crime Reduction Unit of the Suffolk County Police Department, and Research Technician Emily Kiersnowski of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Specialized assistance was also received from the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

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Mia

MEET MIA!

Mia is a stunning five year-old Female Mastiff/Labrador mix who sadly has called the Smithtown Animal Shelter home for over FOUR YEARS, after being hit by a car and then surrendered. To make matters worse, Mia was a “yard dog” living her first part of life outdoors, and wasn’t properly socialized. As a result, Mia has a little “stranger danger” so getting to know her may take a second visit before she starts giving out cuddles and paws.

Mia is a gorgeous and goofy girl who loves to play and throw toys around. She is a big fan of going on car rides, pup cups, and resting her head and big paws on her favorite people’s laps! The first time Mia gives you her paw, your heart will melt as she ever so gently insists upon holding your hand for a long period of time.

While it may take a few visits to get to know Mia, her loyalty and unconditional friendship is worth the constant supply of kisses, hugs and endless affection. Mia will need a home that can properly introduce her to new people in a way that makes her feel safe. Mia would do best in a home without any other pets or young children.

If you are interested in meeting Mia, please fill out an application  and schedule a date/time to properly interact in a domestic setting, which includes a Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and a Dog Walk trail.

The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.

Additional Foster Opportunity:

If you have no other pets or young children at home, and are looking for a way to serve your community, please consider signing up to be a foster. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens, and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for extended periods of time.

Download the Foster Application at:

https://www.smithtownny.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4325/Foster-Application

 

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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

Jaswinder Singh Allegedly Crashed into Multiple Cars Stopped at a Red Light, Killing 24-Year-Old Joseph Kelly

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on May 3 that Jaswinder Singh, 52, of Bellrose, Queens, was indicted for Criminally Negligent Homicide and other related charges, for allegedly driving a sanitation truck at an unreasonable speed and crashing into multiple vehicles that had been stopped at a red light on the South Service Road of the Long Island Expressway in Hauppauge. The collision caused the death of Joseph Kelly, 24, of West Islip, who was in one of the other vehicles.

“This defendant, who was allegedly driving a 19-ton truck, had a responsibility to drive prudently and cautiously. Instead, he is alleged to have been speeding, causing him to crash into a line of cars stopped at the traffic light, resulting in the loss of Joseph Kelly’s life,” said District Attorney Tierney. “Today’s indictment reflects the solemn duty of law enforcement to hold individuals accountable for their actions, particularly if their alleged crime results in the loss of life.”

According to the investigation, on July 3, 2023, Singh was allegedly driving a sanitation truck from Brooklyn to a commercial establishment in Suffolk County, where it was to be outfitted before being put into service with the New York City Department of Sanitation. At approximately 8:50 a.m., Singh, who was allegedly headed eastbound on the Long Island Expressway, exited at Exit 57 onto Express Drive South in Hauppauge.

Singh allegedly continued to drive on Express Drive South at a high rate of speed that was as he approached a steady red light where cars were stopped. Singh then allegedly failed to slow down or apply the brakes of the truck, causing him to crash into the back of multiple vehicles that had been stopped in front of him, and barrel through the red light at the intersection.

The 38,900-pound garbage truck allegedly first collided with a Honda Civic that was being operated by the victim Kelly, causing a chain reaction of multiple car crashes. Kelly died on impact. The multi car collision involved damage to five vehicles, including a school bus, and left a debris field of approximately 300 feet.

On May 3, 2024, Singh was arraigned on the indictment before Acting Supreme Court Justice Steven A. Pilewski, for the following charges:

  •   One count of Criminally Negligent Homicide, a Class E felony;
  •   Two counts of Assault in the Third Degree, Class A misdemeanors;
  •   One count of Reckless Driving, a Class U misdemeanor; and
  •   One count of Speeding Not Reasonable and Prudent, a traffic infraction.

    Justice Pilewski ordered Singh to surrender his passport, placed him on supervised release and suspended his driver’s license. Singh is due back in court on May 17, 2024, and he is being represented by the Suffolk County Legal Aid Society. If convicted of the top count, the maximum sentence allowable under current New York State law is one and one-third to four years in prison.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Emma Henry and James McCormack of the Vehicular Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Marissa DeMeo of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fourth Squad.

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Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD
Do you recognize this man? Photo from SCPD

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers and Suffolk County Police Sixth Precinct Crime Section officers are seeking the public’s help to identify and locate a man who allegedly stole from a South Setauket  store last month.

A man allegedly stole approximately $460 worth of Pokemon cards from Target, located at 265 Pond Path, at 4:12 p.m. on April 25.

Suffolk County Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, utilizing a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.

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Police car
Suffolk County Police arrested five people on May 2 for allegedly selling vape products, cannabis and alcohol to people under the age of 21 during compliance checks at multiple businesses in the Second Precinct.

In response to community complaints, Second Precinct Crime Section officers, checked nine locations for age compliance related to sales of vape products. The following people were charged with Unlawfully Dealing with a Child 2nd Degree and Public Health Law, Sale of Flavored Products after selling vape products to an underage police agent:

  • Mehboog Patel, 55, of Hicksville, employed at Huntington Smoke&Cigar, located at 517 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station
  • Shatha Sheela, 22, of Jericho, employed at Venom X, located at 217 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station
  • Piara Singh, 61, of Huntington Station, employed at FMS Vapes, located at 825 Walt Whitman Road, Melville
  • Abdul Shakoor, 42, of Selden, employed at Rollie’s Smoke III, located at 144 W. Hills Road, Huntington StationAkashDeep Singh, 22, of Floral Park, employed at A to Z Smoke & Convenience, located at 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington sold cannabis and alcohol to an underage police agent. He was charged with Unlawfully Dealing with a Child First Degree, Unlawful Sale of Cannabis and Sale of Cannabis without a License.

    All five were issued Field Appearance Tickets and will be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on a later date.

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