Issues: Crime

Albany, N.Y., January 29—State Senator Tom O’Mara (R-C, Big Flats) reminded area residents today that the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is currently undertaking a statewide correction officer recruitment effort.

A state Civil Service examination to fill new positions has been scheduled for April 13, 2013.  Those interested in taking the exam must file an application by Monday, February 25, 2013.

            Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) is sponsoring legislation to raise penalties for drivers who leave the scene of an accident which causes injury or death. 

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – The Senate passed a bipartisan overhaul of state gun laws late last evening.  This legislation features a balanced approach that preserves Second Amendment rights while increasing restrictions on assault weapons. It also has provisions to take away licenses from individuals with mental illness who, in the opinion of mental health professionals, would pose a danger to themselves or others should they possess guns. Senator Ted O’Brien was one of 43 senators who voted “yes” on the measure.

For Immediate Release: January 14, 2013

Former State Trooper and Sheriff of Erie County Votes "No" On Omnibus Gun Control Package

“Recent tragic events have justifiably focused the nation’s collective attention on violence, and what can be done to ensure that our communities, neighborhoods and schools are safe.”

 “As a career law enforcement professional, I am supportive of increasing penalties for illegal possession and the illegal use of weapons, keeping weapons out of the hands of criminals and those with mental health issues that endanger others, improved measures to combat gang activity, increased penalties for those who target first responders, and numerous other proven measures that enhance public safety.”

The horrific incidents in Newtown, CT, and Webster, NY, prompted shock and outrage across America. As a mother, and a grandmother, I experienced the same emotions and horror at these events, and other recent random acts of gun violence, as citizens all across this great state and nation.

Additional Sponsors Sign-On to Measure to Protect First Responders,

Online Petition Grows to More Than 2,000 Signatures

State Senator Patty Ritchie has announced additional support for “Mark’s Law," her measure designed to put the full weight of the law behind emergency first responders and ensure just punishment for those who harm these heroes.

As of Friday, seven lawmakers have signed on to co-sponsor her bill, S.2130..  In addition,  an online petition where the public can show their support for Mark’s Law has reached more than 2,000 signatures.

“The Senate Republican plan is entirely inadequate and falls far short of what New Yorkers expect their elected officials to do about the gun violence and bloodshed that has become frighteningly common.

“Republicans talk about ‘illegal guns’ and increasing jail sentences after criminals have been caught.   The fact is, guns are not illegal until they end up in the hands of criminals.  Our focus needs to be on keeping guns out of the hands of criminals and the violently mentally ill in the first place, and on using available technology to catch criminals after using a firearm.  Only after gun criminals are caught will sentencing be relevant.