WATCH: A great story about a successful search and rescue, plus working to enforce immigration law
By Andrew Harris
In a regular stop at the Hesselson’s Studio in Corning NY, Sheriff James Allard sat down with Big FOX host Frank Acomb to give updates on recent Steuben County law enforcement news.
The first topic was the big story in the county this week after a three-year old child ran off into the backcountry chasing his puppy. A toddler, chasing a puppy and getting lost turned out to be heartwarming story of successful search and rescue. Allard explained that after hours of intense searching, with help from neighboring law enforcement departments, the child was found safely. The interesting part of the rescue was that former Savona Mayor Tom Drake found the kid, with puppy, safe and sound. Drake, who graduated high school with Sheriff Allard, was out actively searching on his four-wheeler. Allard was appreciative of Drake and all who searched successfully, noting that recent searches haven’t had such happy endings. Read the report from the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office:
Sheriff Allard: Missing three-year old located by former Savona NY Mayor Tom Drake – The HORNELL SUN
The second big story Acomb asked the Sheriff about was the bank robbery, investigation, and arrest after an Addison teller was held up. Allard explained that modern technology and hundreds of tips led to the successful arrest of a Corning man. The case was solved largely by collecting a myriad of security cameras, doorbell cameras, and forensic evidence processed by the NYS Police Crime Lab. Sheriff hailed the cooperation between agencies who were able to put many pieces of a puzzle together to solve the crime and bring the bank robbery to justice. Read more about that arrest:
Sheriff: Addison bank robber busted in Corning after over 100 tips – The HORNELL SUN
Acomb then asked the Sheriff about the county sheriff about reported partnership with federal ICE agents. Responding to critique, Allard explained that his office has always worked with state and federal authorities under the obligation to “support the Constitution.” He continued to explain that his office is not conducting immigration raids, but does turn over subjects wanted by the federal government to federal authorities. Acomb pointed out that public outrage over the cooperation seems overblown. Allard confirmed that only two residents have come forward to question the situation and a recent public meeting with the County Public Safety committee had zero attendance from the public.
Questions from viewer asked the Sheriff about staffing levels in the jail. “The jail is are down over a dozen guys,” Allard explained that corrections officers went back to work for NYS. He continued to explain that many local departments are struggling to hire and that everyone is trying to pull from the same small pool. “It is an ongoing challenge.”
Addressing the ongoing legal matters with Steuben County, Allard confirmed that nothing has changed since the county filed for an appeal. The Sheriff reacted to our interview with former county Chairman Scott VanEtten, calling his statements “ridiculous.” He didn’t respond to VanEtten’s statement citing wisdom from Abraham Lincoln. Acomb and Allard discussed some of the financial highlights of the litigation and where public support lies. If you didn’t read our interview with Steuben County Legislator Scott VanEtten:
Allard v. Steuben County: Scott Van Etten makes his case for appeal decision – The HORNELL SUN
Watch the full interview between Frank and the Sheriff for more details and context.
Check out “Frankly Speaking” on Youtube and at Frankly Speaking | wydc-tv.com
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