Spring Valley, NY — The Village of Spring Valley has been awarded $61,552 through the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program, funding that will directly enhance the Spring Valley Police Department’s efforts to prevent gun violence.

The grant will be used to strengthen the department’s Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) program — a key initiative under New York’s Red Flag Law, which allows law enforcement to petition courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.

Since the law’s implementation in 2022, Spring Valley officers have filed more than 100 ERPO petitions in Rockland County Supreme Court, illustrating the department’s proactive stance on firearm-related threats and community safety.

Officials say the funding not only supports critical preventative work but also acknowledges the dedication and leadership shown by the Spring Valley Police Department in addressing the threat of gun violence.

“This grant is a testament to the hard work of our officers and their commitment to keeping Spring Valley safe,” said village officials. “We remain focused on using every available tool to prevent tragedy before it happens.”

The ERPO initiative continues to play a vital role in the village’s broader public safety strategy, aimed at reducing firearm-related incidents and protecting vulnerable individuals.

New City, NY — Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann, Police Chief Jeff Wanamaker, and Town officials announced that they have taken swift legal action to shut down an illegally operating daycare discovered at 86 and 96 Maple Avenue in New City.

Following multiple complaints and tips received by the Building Department, a search warrant was obtained through Justice Court. Upon inspection, officials uncovered a shocking array of violations that placed dozens of children at serious risk.

Serious Overcrowding and Licensing Violations

• 69 children and 21 employees were found inside the building—more than double the legal occupancy limit of 33.

• The operators lacked a New York State daycare license and had no special permit from the Town of Clarkstown to operate a daycare.

• The premises were also improperly used for a U-Haul business, with no approval from the Town.

Unsafe Conditions: 30 Cribs in an Unfinished Basement

Investigators found 30 cribs located in a windowless, unventilated basement beneath a vape shop at 96 Maple Ave. The area failed to meet basic safety standards:

• Only one access point via a rear staircase—violating NYS regulations requiring two ground-level exits for infant care.

• Exposed electrical wiring, improperly stored flammable liquids, padlocked exits, and a lack of fire alarms were among 13 major fire and safety code violations identified.

Legal Action Underway

• The Town has filed a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) in New York State Supreme Court seeking injunctive relief to shut down the facility.

• Code Enforcement proceedings are being initiated in Justice Court for overcrowding and numerous violations.

• The case has been referred to the Clarkstown Police Department to determine if any criminal statutes were violated.

• Child Protective Services (CPS) has stepped in and temporarily shut down the operation while further investigations continue.

“This was a dangerous and completely illegal operation that put dozens of children in harm’s way,” said Supervisor Hoehmann. “Thanks to the quick work of our Building Department, Police Department, and CPS, we were able to act quickly to protect the safety of our youngest residents.”

Officials have not yet confirmed whether charges will be filed against the individuals responsible for operating the facility.

Photos provided by Town officials show the cramped, unsafe conditions inside the properties. To see more photos visit/follow the Rockandreport on Facebook.