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Suffolk D.A.: Six arrested in alleged Lowe’s credit card fraud scheme

by Press Release - August 7, 2024

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Ray Tierney photo (1) — Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney. Photo from Tierney's office

The Defendants Allegedly Used Others’ Identities to Open Accounts and Make Purchases

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced the arrests of ANANDA GABRIEL, AAMEER WAIGHT, ABILIO SANCHEZ, ANTHONY COLON, RASHAD PROVOST and JONATHAN LYNCE, who are accused of grand larceny, identity theft, and other related charges, for their roles in an identity theft scheme at Lowe’s stores. The scheme allegedly involved multiple Lowe’s credit card accounts being opened in the names of multiple victims, which were used to make fraudulent purchases of gift cards totaling over $25,000 from various Lowe’s store locations throughout Suffolk County.

“These arrests allege a pattern of identity theft that represents a significant breach of personal security for victims across the United States,” said District Attorney Tierney. “Charges of identity theft often intersect with retail theft, as stolen identities are often used to make fraudulent purchases, potentially leading to substantial losses for merchants as well as headaches for consumers.”

According to the investigation, between October 2023 and February 2024, the defendants allegedly opened Lowe’s credit card accounts online using the names and identities of multiple individuals who reside all over the United States, without their knowledge or consent.

The defendants then allegedly used those accounts to purchase more than $25,000 worth of gift cards from various Lowe’s store locations throughout New York. At least five Suffolk County Lowe’s store locations were targeted, including Commack, Bay Shore, Farmingdale, Medford and Stony Brook.

Additionally, in November 2023, GABRIEL allegedly rented an apartment in Patchogue using the identity of another Suffolk County resident without their consent or awareness. To date, GABRIEL has allegedly not paid any rent for that apartment.

On August 6, 2024, all six defendants were arrested by members of the Suffolk County Police Department.

GABRIEL, 23, of Patchogue, was charged with:

 One count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a Class D felony;
 Five counts of Identity Theft in the First Degree, Class D felonies;
 One count of Identity Theft in the Second Degree, a Class E felony;
 Two counts of Identity Theft in the Third Degree, Class A misdemeanors;
 One count of Attempted Petit Larceny, a Class B misdemeanor; and
 One count of Attempted Identity Theft in the Third Degree, a Class B misdemeanor.WAIGHT, 22, of Central Islip, was charged with:

 One count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a Class D felony; and
 One count of Identity Theft in the First Degree, a Class D felony.SANCHEZ, 20, of Huntington Station, was charged with:

 One count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a Class D felony; and
 One count of Identity Theft in the First Degree, a Class D felony.COLON, 25, of Bay Shore, was charged with:
 One count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a Class D felony;
 One count of Identity Theft in the First Degree, a Class D felony;

 One count of Attempted Petit Larceny, a Class B misdemeanor; and
 One count of Attempted Identity Theft in the Third Degree, a Class B misdemeanor.PROVOST, 23, of Mastic Beach, was charged with:

 One count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a Class D felony;
 One count of Identity Theft in the First Degree, a Class D felony;
 One count of Identity Theft in the Second Degree, a Class E felony; and
 One count of Identity Theft in the Third Degree, a Class A misdemeanor.LYNCE, 22, of Central Islip, was charged with:
 One count of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a Class D felony; and
 Two counts of Identity Theft in the First Degree, Class D felonies.On August 6, 2024, the defendants were arraigned on the charges before District Court Judge Steven Weissbard.
Judge Weissbard ordered GABRIEL released from jail without bail because her charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set bail. She was placed on supervised release with GPS conditions. GABRIEL is due back in court on August 9, 2024, and she is being represented by Robert Macedonio, Esq.

Judge Weissbard ordered WAIGHT released from jail without bail because his charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set bail. WAIGHT is due back in court on August 27, 2024, and he is being represented by Del Atwell, Esq.

Judge Weissbard ordered SANCHEZ released from jail without bail because his charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set bail. SANCHEZ is due back in court on August 14, 2024, and he is being represented by Jonathan Manley, Esq.

Judge Weissbard ordered COLON released from jail without bail because his charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set bail. He was placed on supervised release during the pendency of the case. COLON is due back in court on August 27, 2024, and he is being represented by Oscar Crisafio, Esq.

Judge Weissbard ordered PROVOST released from jail without bail because his charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set bail. PROVOST is due back in court on August 19, 2024, and he is being represented by Harmon Lutzer, Esq.

Judge Weissbard ordered LYNCE released from jail without bail because his charges are considered non-bail eligible under current New York State law, meaning prosecutors cannot ask for, and judges cannot set bail. LYNCE is due back in court on August 19, 2024, and he is being represented by Toni Mari Angeli, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jessica Lightstone of the Financial Crimes Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detective Dan Pagano of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit, with investigative assistance from the District Attorney’s Gun Crime Reduction Unit and the Suffolk County Police Department’s Third Precinct Anti-Crime Unit and Warrants Squad.

Over 50 Fair returns to Melville on Sept. 22

by Press Release - August 7, 2024

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The Over 50 Fair, in its 15^th year, returns to the Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broad Hollow Road, Melville on Sunday, September 22 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Each year, Baby Boomers, seniors, and those a bit younger meet with over 80 exhibitors and attend 25 classes geared toward them. The Over 50 Fair annually entertains and educates hundreds of Long Islanders.

Businesses and non-profits promote local products and services, including health and wellness, education, travel, and financial services, plus some less expected, such as several book authors and psychics.

Over 50 Fair is the brainchild of East Hills resident Barbara Kaplan, who also coordinates the very successful All Kids Fair each April. She said the Over 50 Fair is “Overflowing with Opportunities for Age 50+.” She emphasized that “this is NOT your typical ‘senior fair.’ It is an opportunity for people to learn, interact, and have fun. Our guests can meet with many experts in their fields all in one place,” she added.

Some of this year’s “draws” will be a singles lounge, compliments of MTN Matchmaking, and a live acoustic music showcase, presented by Carrie Creative Concepts.

This year’s classes include “Downsizing your Home” with Realtor® Anna Beigelman; “How to Improve Your Dating and Sex Life After 50” with Maureen Tara Nelson, “Adventures of a Ghost Hunter,” with Joe Giaquinto; and a “Soft Landing in Retirement” financial talk with Fortis Lux. Additional classes will include a comedy show, foot care for people with diabetes, and a fitness and self-defense class.

Free health screenings will include hearing screenings from Anywhere Audiology. There will be free energy wellness scans and reiki healings available.

This event has built a loyal following due to its consistent presentation of various classes, products, and services they find appealing.

Feedback from the attendees and exhibitors after the 2023 event was very positive. Exhibitor Joe Satriano of the Susan Satriano Foundation shared that the Over 50 Fair “runs smoothly because of her [Barbara Kaplan’s] organizational skills, her kind demeanor, and her willingness to assure that those who attend have a great experience.”

The Over 50 Fair was just voted 2024’s Best of Nassau County in the Best Annual Event/Festival – Live or Virtual category for the 10^th consecutive year in Blank Slate Media’s contest.

The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network), a local non-profit that helps Long Island’s needy, will be in attendance collecting non-perishable food and funds. Those who donate will receive raffle tickets to win terrific donated prizes.

Tickets are $5 in advance at www.Over50Fair.com, which includes all classes, exhibits, singles lounge, music performances, health screenings, and more. Those who purchase tickets online will receive a raffle ticket at the event for a special door prize raffle. Tickets are also available at the door for $7, and it is free for Veterans to attend with ID.

This year’s event sponsors include Acupuncture Wellness Services, Men on the Move, Blank Slate Media, The Garden City News, Herald Community Newspapers, and 516Ads.com/631Ads.com.

For more information about this and future events, visit www.Over50Fair.com. For more information, call 516-621-1446.

‘Skip the Stuff’ bill gives Long Islanders food for thought

by Toni-Elena Gallo - August 5, 2024

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plastic-waste-7617454_1280 — Pixabay photo

By Toni-Elena Gallo

Back in April, Suffolk County legislators Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) and Ann Welker (D-Southampton) introduced the “Skip the Stuff” bill, which is designed to reduce the amount of condiment packages and single-use utensils distributed.

This bill would prohibit restaurants and food delivery services from providing plastic utensils, straws, condiments or napkins with takeout and delivery food orders, unless the customer explicitly requests them.

This initiative’s goal is to prevent waste, both environmentally and monetarily, as it aims to reduce the pollutant side effects of plastic microparticles and reduce high restaurant overhead costs, respectively.

The bill did not progress out of the Health Committee, as some officials felt that the legislation was a bit of an overstep, and needed fine tuning. Englebright does plan on reintroducing the bill “in some form,” going forward.

So TBR News Media took to the streets, and asked locals what they thought about the matter.

Juan Mendez, Mount Sinai

Juan, an employee of Dunkin’ Donuts, did not believe the bill will make a significant difference, as his

restaurant already follows the proposals, more or less.

“We already do that, unless the customer asks us [for condiments or spoons] to be included,” he said.

He explained that there is “an outside area, for any customers that need napkins or straws,” they are just not put in bags by the staff.

“A lot of users don’t even use [these things automatically included] in the bag. If you don’t need it, it’s wasteful.”

Brittany, Port Jefferson

Brittany, who works in Port Jefferson village, had a nuanced stance on the issue.

“I understand for environmental reasons why this would want to be done, completely. But, when you go out, you need something, especially if you’re getting something like ice cream,” she said.

She added that “maybe, if we could use spoons that were better for the environment,” that could provide a potential middle ground.

Angelina of Miller Place and

co-worker Debbie

Both women felt the bill would have a positive impact on the environment.

“I agree with [minimizing plastic utensils]. At the same time, it can be annoying, when it’s not available but I think it is so good for the environment,” Angelina said.

Her co-worker, Debbie, echoed similar sentiments.

“It is a good thing for the environment. On the other hand, like everything, there is a pro and a con to it. For customers who need these things, it can be an inconvenience. But, we have to look a generation ahead. What kind of lifestyle will our grandkids be having [if we pollute our environment] with plastic? It is time to start thinking about the future, and not just now. If it is for our betterment it is worth the sacrifice, and every change must start somewhere.”

Debbie declined for her picture to be taken and other personal information to be included.

Sam, Port Jefferson

Sam a hostess, felt that customers expect extras as part of their takeout orders. And, that they may not be

pleased if that changed.

“We always give ketchup and utensils. Nobody really asks for it, but, I feel like if we don’t give them, they are going to [be upset]. People come to expect it, as part of the service. You don’t know where everybody is going — they could be going outside to eat and not going home,” she said.

Suffolk County sees continuing increase in cases of syphilis

by Daniel Dunaief - August 5, 2024

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200193087-001 — Pregnant woman standing beside crib. METRO Creative Connection photo

By Daniel Dunaief

Cases of syphilis, a sexually-transmitted infection, have climbed dramatically on Long Island over the last decade and have continued to increase, creating a health care risk for those infected including pregnant women and their unborn children.

The number of infectious syphilis cases on Long Island quadrupled between 2011 and 2021, reflecting a national trend, Dr. Cynthia Friedman, Director of Public Health Suffolk County Department of Health Services, explained in an email, citing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

“Unfortunately, case numbers continued to increase through 2022,” while 2023 numbers were not yet finalized, Friedman added.

The incubation period for syphilis is between two and three weeks, with primary symptoms including painless open sores or ulcers and enlarged lymph nodes near the sore.

Left untreated, syphilis can progress through four stages, from primary, to secondary, latent and tertiary, with the last of those occurring in about 30 of cases and threatening the heart and brain and potentially causing death.

“The CDC and New York State Department of Health have issued advisories urging providers to screen their patients for syphilis when appropriate,” Friedman wrote. “Prevention of congenital syphilis is a priority.”

Indeed, pregnant women can pass along syphilis to their unborn children.

Children born with syphilis look healthy, but develop problems as they age.

“It’s a life-long debilitating disease” for infants, said Dr. Sharon Nachman, Chief of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. “It affects the brain, bones, growth, teeth and every part of the body.”

Nationally, the number of children born with syphilis has also increased, with CDC data indicating that 3,700 were born with the disease in 2022, 10 times the level from 2012.

Area hospitals have been actively screening pregnant women for syphilis and, in cases where tests come back positive, have been prescribing Bicillin L-A, a form of penicillin that treats the disease and protects unborn children.

“We at Stony Brook have been very aggressive about knowing each mother’s status,” said Nachman.

At Huntington Hospital, pregnant women are also screened at least three times, on initial intake, in the middle of a pregnancy and on admission to the hospital, explained Dr. Mitchell Kramer, Chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Suffolk County runs a Congenital Syphilis Prevention Program, which follows women who test positive for the infection during their pregnancy to ensure they are adequately treated and that their infants receive appropriate monitoring and follow up, Friedman wrote in an email.

Still, infections occur among newborns in the county.

“There are generally a few babies born with congenital syphilis in Suffolk County each year,” explained Friedman. “This usually occurs when mothers have had no or limited prenatal care.”

Supply of medicine

Hospitals have been extremely careful with their supply of Bicillin L-A, which is the most effective and safest treatment for pregnant women who aren’t allergic to penicillin.

“Across our institution, nobody could touch those [treatments] unless they were treating a pregnant woman,” said Nachman.

Pfizer, which manufactures the drug, indicated in June that they have enough Bicillin to treat diagnosed cases of the disease.

Kramer said the earlier supply limitations of Bicillin L-A hadn’t been an issue in his practice, although he “wouldn’t be surprised if smaller health care facilities had a shortage.”

Causes of the increase

Health care professionals suggested several possible causes of the rise in syphilis.

An improvement in the prevention and treatment of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, has likely led to a reduction in the use of condoms, which help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

An increase in the use of apps to find potential partners may also have increased the spread of these infections, said Nachman.

Additionally, some people may feel there is a “stigma associated with STIs” and may be reluctant to go to a doctor and ask for a test, said Kramer.

Numerous states have lost funding for STI prevention, which also likely reduced the awareness of the need for people to protect themselves, Kramer added.

Populations where there’s disparities in health services and that don’t have access to screening and treatment are “health care deserts” as patients “are not getting proper care and screening,” Kramer said.

Syphilis isn’t just a problem for any one age group.

The infection has been making the rounds at senior centers and assisted living facilities, with cases rising among people over 65 years old. Seniors who aren’t concerned about pregnancy can be at risk for contracting a sexually transmitted disease.

Area hospitals have been urging residents to understand the prevalence and health consequences of STIs and have urged people to protect themselves from the disease.

“There is a concerted effort to get the message out,” Kramer said.

Editorial: Our town codes

by TBR Staff - August 3, 2024

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Each town, and many hamlets, have town codes that their politicians strive to enforce. However, these codes are not hard and fast and are subject to amendments, which are happening all the time and often in response to community input.

For local legislatures, the community wields enormous power — our voices, if they are loud enough, have the capability to incite change. While these codes can at times be enigmatic, it’s imperative that we take the time to understand them so that we, as members of the town, know the rules we live by, whether they appear to be justified or not.

In Huntington, a group of residents noticed a discrepancy with how the planning board approached a development application and what their code dictates. The residents, who form the Nathan Hale Nature Preserve, hired a lawyer and filed a lawsuit. They pointed out that a procedure wasn’t followed and the board’s attorney agreed — it wasn’t.

Last year, the Smithtown planning board amended the town code to exclude “convalescent” and “resting” homes from being considered a special exception to zoning restrictions, thereby preventing a proposal submitted by a company from progressing.

Recently, the Town of Brookhaven revitalized enforcement of their town code regarding signs, resulting in the removal of thousands of signs of all shapes and sizes. One reason behind this is that the signs are visually unappealing and don’t fit the town’s aesthetic goals.

Sometimes the rules aren’t so cut and dried. Port Jefferson Village, like most local governments, has sign ordinances that outlaw certain obstructive and unattractive signs that don’t oblige the fixed parameters of the code.

A subjective reason, no matter how well-intentioned, is inevitably open to debate. This was the case where the village lost a legal battle to remove a prohibited and politically charged sign.

Signs are tricky. Their purpose is to communicate, so free speech is always a consideration. Walking this fine line of preserving the integrity of the town while protecting the First Amendment has proved difficult to Port Jefferson Village, which lost a legal battle with a business owner over whether his sign was allowed.

While it is important to protect our First Amendment right, it is also important to oblige our neutral town codes and to ensure our community is a place all residents feel at home.

In becoming a resident, we consent to an unspoken agreement with our fellow residents and with our local officials. If something is amiss in our town, know we have the power to inflict change. We can become better advocates for our communities by becoming conversant with our town codes and learning about the political and legal options available to make the changes we desire come to fruition.

An effective, stable democracy is founded on a scrupulous system of checks and balances. Errors or oversights in our town codes are not cause for alarm, but rather an opportunity to build a better community.

Vendors wanted for Pink in the Park event in Huntington

by Heidi Sutton - August 2, 2024

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Town of Huntington Councilwoman Theresa Mari seeks vendors to participate in the Pink in the Park Breast Cancer Prevention and Education Fair, scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 29, at Heckscher Park, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Whether you sell essential breast cancer care items, jewelry, clothing, or other products, your participation is welcomed. Additionally, the Councilwoman is looking for vendors who can contribute to creating a fun and engaging environment for families, with activities for children to enjoy. For a vendor application or more information, call 631-351-3173.

Comsewogue School District mascot to shift to the ‘Spartan’ ahead of the 2025-26 school year

by Samantha Rutt - August 2, 2024

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By Samantha Rutt

Comsewogue School District, along with at least six other Long Island districts, will see a new mascot ahead of the 2025-26 school year. Included is Half Hollow Hills East High School, previously the Thunderbirds, now known as the Red Hawks.

Following a New York State policy set back in April of 2023, New York became the 21st state to restrict Native-themed imagery in public schools, banning Native American-themed names, mascots and logos for all school districts in the state. Five L.I. districts have active lawsuits against the state in respect of the mascot ban.

Comsewogue, hitherto the Warriors, will don the “Spartan” as their official school mascot starting July 1, 2025. The decision for the Spartan came from a series of conversations within the district.

“The district formed a student committee,” said Matteo DeVincenzo, school district athletic director. “They came up with some names that each particular building liked, we then took all of those lists and put it together for parents, the community, staff members and everyone related to the community had an opportunity to vote on what they liked best — it was a very democratic way of deciding.”

Back in January the district began gathering “insight into what terms best represent Comsewogue” as per the school district’s website. In February, the district used the insights to gather additional information through a survey.

Then in April, the Comsewogue Leadership Team, composed of students from grades 3-12, narrowed the search down to five possible mascot/logo ideas: the Chargers, Cobras, Commanders, Spartans and Wolves. A vote was held in June to determine the winner.

“We narrowed it down to a top five list and from there, each day we’d would remove one. That was ultimately how the Spartans were selected,” DeVincenzo said.

Historical background

Before Europeans had ever stepped foot on Long Island, from present day St. James to Wading River and as far south as Gordon Heights, the Setalcott Nation once inhabited the lands. Within that territory lies Port Jefferson Station/Terryville, an area known to the Setalcotts as Comsewogue, meaning “place where paths come together.”

The Terryville-Comsewogue School District was formed in 1874, and the senior high school opened nearly a century later in 1971. The school district has prominently showcased its precolonial heritage along with its name, boasting the Warrior mascot.

“The Spartans are a part of Comsewogue history. Before we were the Warriors, we were the Spartans, before the high school came into existence. At JFK [middle school] we were the Spartans. I believe it was prior to 1972 that we were the Comsewogue Spartans,” DeVincenzo claimed.

As for this school year, Comsewogue School District will still be represented by the Warrior and looks to continue developing a logo and other fine-tuning before the Spartan is unveiled.

Whole Foods Market opens in Huntington Station

by Press Release - August 2, 2024

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Whole Foods Market opened its new 43,916-square-foot store, located at 350 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station in the Huntington Shopping Center, on July 17. The 7th location on Long Island, the store’s product assortment features more than 2,000 local items from the Northeast.

“We are thrilled to open this Huntington Station store with a fantastic assortment of products from local and emerging brands in the Northeast, with many from right here in New York,” said John Lawson, Forager for Local & Emerging Brands at Whole Foods Market.

“From local suppliers new to Whole Foods Market, like L’Isolina Pasta, La Rossi Pizza and Don Carvajal Coffee, to longtime customer favorites like Oliver’s Organic Eggs, Adirondack Ice Cream, MyBacon and Annie’s Ginger Elixir, each product was thoughtfully sourced to provide something for everyone,” Lawson added.

During the opening morning festivities, customers enjoyed cold brew coffee from Sail Away Coffee Co., muffins from Abe’s and Koyo Berries from Oishii. The first 300 customers in line received a limited-edition Huntington Station tote bag and a Secret Saver coupon featuring offers up to $100 off.

Additionally on opening morning, Whole Foods Market donated a Nourishing Our Neighborhoods van to We All We Got, Inc., along with $3,000 in products. The Nourishing Our Neighborhoods program, which launched in 2020, aims to enhance the operational capabilities of local food rescue organizations, enabling efficient transport of food from surplus locations to areas with the greatest need.

Founded in 1980, Austin-based Whole Foods Market is part of Amazon’s Worldwide Grocery Stores and serves customers in more than 530 stores across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

Other locations on Long Island include Lake Grove, Commack, Garden City, Manhasset, Massapequa Park and Jericho.

Suffolk D.A.: Three Farmingdale men indicted for kidnapping and murdering Amityville man

by Press Release - August 2, 2024

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Gustavo Hernandez and His Nephews, Walter Ramirez Jeronimo and Wilson Ramirez Jeronimo, Allegedly Kidnapped the Victim in Broad Daylight Before Killing Him

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced on Aug. 2 that Gustavo Hernandez, 38, Walter Ramirez Jeronimo, 19, and Wilson Ramirez Jeronimo, 18, each from Farmingdale, were indicted for Murder in the Second Degree, Kidnapping in the First Degree, and Attempted Kidnapping in the Second Degree, for their alleged participation in the abduction and murder of Juan Carlos Diaz Jeronimo, 48, of Amityville.

“The allegations in this indictment are deeply disturbing. The brazen nature of this alleged crime, occurring in a public place during daylight hours, shocks the conscience and undermines our sense of community,” said District Attorney Tierney. “This indictment is our first step in pursuing justice for Juan Carlos Diaz Jeronimo and his family.”

According to the investigation, on the evening of June 21, 2024, the victim was walking on Broadhollow Road in Farmingdale when he was allegedly spotted by the defendants, who were in a Blue Isuzu Rodeo.

There is no known familial relationship between the victim, Juan Carlos Diaz Jeronimo, and the defendants.

Video surveillance shows the defendants allegedly exiting the vehicle, attacking the victim, and attempting to drag him toward the Isuzu. Their efforts were thwarted by a passing motorist, allowing the victim to escape to a gas station across the street.

Defendants allegedly in blue Isuzu near the victim walking.

Defendants allegedly attacking the victim and attempting to drag him to the Isuzu.

The defendants allegedly followed the victim to the gas station. Video surveillance showed the Jeronimo brothers covering their faces and then, along with their uncle, allegedly beating the victim, knocking him to the ground, choking him, and violently forcing him into the trunk of the Isuzu.

Defendants allegedly in blue Isuzu near the victim walking.

Defendants allegedly attacking the victim and attempting to drag him to the Isuzu.

The alleged abduction was caught on video surveillance and occurred at a gas station in broad daylight.

After allegedly forcing the victim into the trunk of the SUV, the defendants drove to Belmont Lake State Park, and then back to Farmingdale where surveillance video captured them allegedly dumping the victim’s body on a residential street.

The Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s office noted that the victim suffered numerous injuries including but not limited to asphyxia due to neck compression, severe blunt force trauma of the abdomen, and what appeared to be a stab wound to his upper chest.

All three defendants allegedly heading towards the victim, with Hernandez in the blue Isuzu.

Defendants allegedly beating and choking the victim.

All three defendants were indicted for the following charges:

 Two counts of Murder in the Second Degree, Class A-I felonies;
 One count of Kidnapping in the First Degree, a Class A-I felony; and
 One count of Attempted Kidnapping in the Second Degree, a Class C violent felony.On August 1, 2024, the defendants were each arraigned on the indictment before Acting Supreme Court Justice Karen M. Wilutis. Justice Wilutis ordered all three defendants be remanded without bail during the pendency of the case.
The defendants are due back in court on September 10, 2024. Hernandez is being represented by Christopher Gioe, Esq. Walter Ramirez Jeronimo is being represented by Jonathan Manley, Esq. Wilson Ramirez Jeronimo is being represented by Katherine Fernandez, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Sheetal Shetty and Eric Aboulafia of the Homicide Bureau, with the assistance of Aracelis Buchanan, the SCDA’s Victim Services Coordinator. The investigation was conducted by Detective Michael Repperger of the Suffolk County Police Department’s Homicide Squad.

Young residents face difficulty in real estate market

by TBR Staff - August 2, 2024

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House — Photo courtesy Town of Brookhaven

By Peter Sloniewsky

In recent years, Long Island has consistently dropped in population and seen an increase in age of senior residents as younger people move to other states.

According to a Feb. 29 Newsday report, between 2017 and 2022 the population of Long Island decreased by more than 110,000 residents. This is largely due to the high cost of living here. In a 2019 report from the Economic Policy Institute, a family of two adults and two children in the Nassau/Suffolk metro area would need to earn a combined $139,545 per year to live “comfortably.”

The cost-of-living index for Long Island is 147, or 47% higher than the national average, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research.

The area is known for its high property taxes, more than 60% of which go to one of the 124 school districts, each of which contains its own administration. While school property taxes are capped at either a 2% increase or at the inflation rate (whichever is lower), the combination of high property values and consistent school budget increases have continued to drive up taxes. Moreover, there is a $10,000 cap on deducting state and local taxes (known as SALT).

Beyond school taxes, a property tax bill also includes police costs, local governments and salaries for public employees. While a debate regarding the relationship between payment for government and educational services certainly exists, the result is clear — a relatively inaccessible financial environment for young homebuyers or renters.

While the 2023 national poverty level for a family of four is approximately $30,000 per year, indicating a 6% poverty rate on Long Island, local legislators have said that this is a vast underestimate. The real figure should be about $55,500 per year, according to a Newsday report, meaning about 20% of Long Islanders are “structurally poor.”

As Long Island’s population declines, except in some East End towns, the number of senior residents in the 65-plus age group has grown. That being said, if young people are to live here, options do exist.

First, trends are not identical across the area. Properties in the middle of the island are typically more affordable than those on shorelines, and towns in that area are generally more diverse.

The relationship between housing and renting is also important to consider. According to 2021 census data, the majority of renters on Long Island spend more than 30% of their income on rent in a sellers market. However, the median home price has consistently risen and is now greater than $600,000 as demand far outpaces supply.

The foremost solution is to save strategically. In a conversation with TBR News Media, Jolie Powell, of Jolie Powell Realty in Port Jefferson, said that her foremost advice to young buyers would be to “keep saving your money, [and to] hunker down on other items you’re purchasing, because the home is the most important asset. Save, save, save.” She recommended that young buyers in financially stressful situations search for properties in “up and coming” neighborhoods, and generally in the center areas of Long Island.

Powell also stated that grants and assistance were available, and that a strategic young buyer would seek them out. The Federal Housing Administration offers loans with as little as 3.5% down payments for homebuyers, with low closing costs and easy credit qualifying.

Beyond that, Nassau County offers grants to eligible first-time homebuyers, and Suffolk County has offered programs in the past for down payment assistance. Individual towns and other bodies of municipal government can also offer assistance, and organizations like the Long Island Housing Partnership have been touted by local governments as highly beneficial. These organizations can use the New York State Affordable Housing Corporation’s funds, which can be combined with additional county funds to assist buyers with purchases and improvements.

Ultimately, while Long Island’s high cost of living and elevated property taxes continue to drive younger residents away, strategic saving and available assistance programs offer some hope for those determined to make their home here, even as the population trends toward an older demographic.

In a late development, the Town of Brookhaven and Long Island Housing Partnership will launch on Aug. 1 a down payment assistance program, giving first-time homebuyers the opportunity to receive assistance up to $50,000 in down payment/closing costs toward the purchase of an eligible single-family home.

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