Erie County Sheriff's Dept. Report 2024
Erie County Sheriff's Dept. Official Website
November 7 - November 13, 2024
CHIEFS VS. BILLS Information - November 2024
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. - Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia announces the following information for the Kansas City Chiefs vs. Buffalo Bills game at Highmark Stadium. The game will begin Sunday, November 17 rd at 4:25 p.m. Sheriff Garcia recommends all guests review Highmark Stadium maps to locate the best location in which to park and gate at which to enter. Additionally, all fans are reminded to familiarize themselves with the list of prohibited items at Highmark Stadium in order to avoid delays at the gates. See Information.
October 31 - November 6, 2024
October 24 - October 30, 2024
DOLPHINS VS. BILLS Information - November 2024
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. - Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia announces the following information for the Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills game at Highmark Stadium. The game will begin Sunday, November 3 rd at 1:00 p.m. Sheriff Garcia recommends all guests review Highmark Stadium maps to locate the best location in which to park and gate at which to enter. Additionally, all fans are reminded to familiarize themselves with the list of prohibited items at Highmark Stadium in order to avoid delays at the gates. See Information.Consumer Alert: Buffalo Bills Tickets - October 2024
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. - As we enter the second half of the NFL season, Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia advises Buffalo Bills fans to exercise caution when purchasing tickets on the secondary market. "As we get closer to the end of the regular season, scammers will unfortunately be looking to take advantage of Bills fans’ excitement and anticipation for a Super Bowl run," said Sheriff Garcia. "Buyers should be vigilant as they search for tickets and use common sense. If the deal seems too good to be true, it likely is."When searching for tickets to any event, consumers are advised to utilize verified ticket partners. This provides buyers with confidence that their purchase is legitimate and the product is authentic. For Buffalo Bills home games, verified ticket partners are Ticketmaster and SeatGeek. With respect to any game, concert or event, buyers should only purchase tickets from a reseller that discloses the terms of the transaction, according to the Better Business Bureau and National Association of Ticket Brokers. This includes whether the purchase is eligible for a refund. It is also a good idea to use a credit card when making the transaction. Consumers with questions related to Buffalo Bills tickets can reach out to the team’s ticket office at 877-228-4257.
October 17 - October 23, 2024
October 10 - October 16, 2024
October 3 - October 9, 2024
September 26 - October 2, 2024
Message From the Sheriff - Scam Phone Calls - October 2024
Erie County, NY – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia reports that residents of Erie County should be on alert for scam phone calls. Numerous residents of Erie County have reported receiving phone calls from individuals purporting to be from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. The caller will identify himself as a member of the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, we are an office, and will inform the recipient of the call that they owe money for fines, or to bail out a family member, or they will state that the caller has a warrant that needs to be cleared up. The caller will then request payment via credit card information or by purchasing gift cards. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office will never directly call you and illicit money and will never do so in a harassing or malicious manner. If you should receive one of these calls, please hang up and report the matter to local police.Message From the Sheriff - October 2024
BUFFALO, N.Y. - Each October, we pause to recognize a number of important causes. We are commemorating Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To all of the women fighting: you are an inspiration to your family and others. I wish you continued courage in your battle.We also recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Sadly, this is an issue that touches all parts of our society. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit works 12 months a year to provide intervention and planning support services to survivors. Advocates working in this office perform some of the most important work that we do. I am proud to recognize their efforts this month.
With Halloween approaching, it is also important that we observe Pedestrian Safety Month this October. At the end of the month, our streets and sidewalks will be full of families enjoying trick-or-treating. That night, and each day and night this month, let’s all exercise extra caution and make an effort to share the road. While it is important year-round, it is particularly necessary to drive free of distraction on October 31st. Put the cell phones down. And as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reminds us, slower speeds save lives. Parents: do your best to keep your kids on the sidewalks while trick-or-treating.
As we recognize Pedestrian Safety month, we also acknowledge that part of our community is still in mourning. Last month, a Grand Island Middle School student was tragically hit and killed by a motor vehicle. I grieve for this young girl’s family. While our deputies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident, it is a reminder of how serious an issue this is and how it can touch any one of us.
Thousands of pedestrians are killed in traffic crashes in the United States each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most pedestrian fatalities (78% in 2022) occur at night. While each investigation yields different causes of these crashes, in general, we can reduce these incidents by slowing down, ignoring our cell phones and driving sober. There is no better time to start than this October!
Message From the Sheriff - September 2024
BUFFALO, N.Y. - Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia joins his fellow Sheriffs across New York this week in the annual observance of Sheriffs’ Week in New York State. Each year, during the third week of September, we recognize the important functions Sheriff’s Offices across New York State perform.The Office of Sheriff in Erie County was created on February 4, 1821 with the appointment of Sheriff John Camp. Its duties have evolved over the last 203 years. Today, The Sheriff is the elected chief law enforcement official of Erie County. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office consists of several divisions: Administrative Services, Civil Enforcement, Jail Management, Police Services, Professional Standards, Reserve and Special Operations. In addition to being the primary police agency serving approximately 60% of the county’s land area, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office serves as a regional asset to law enforcement agencies across Western New York.
Additionally, the Jail Management Division operates two jails: the Erie County Holding Center and the Erie County Correctional Facility. The Correctional Health Services team provides individualized medical care for hundreds of incarcerated individuals in the custody of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office each day. Sheriff Garcia thanks the staff of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office for their dedicated work and celebrates their efforts as we observe Sheriffs’ Week across New York State.
Fatal Accident - September 2024
Grand Island, NY – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia regrettably reports that deputies are currently investigating a fatal accident which occurred in the Town of Grand Island. On September 11th, , at approximately 8:00 p.m., patrol was dispatched to the intersection of South State Parkway and Broadway, regarding a vehicle striking a pedestrian with serious injury. As patrol arrived on scene, they immediately took over lifesaving efforts being performed by a witness to the incident. Patrol continued CPR with an AED attached until Grand Island Fire and Twin City Ambulance arrived on scene. Despite efforts, Twin City ambulance crews ultimately confirmed the victim to be deceased. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit was immediately notified and responded to the scene. The identity of the juvenile victim will not be released at this time and the status of the investigation remains open and active. Sheriff Garcia and everyone at the Erie County Sheriff’s office extends their deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of the victim.
September 5 - September 12, 2024
August 29 - September 4, 2024
August 22 - August 28, 2024
Message From the Sheriff - September 2024
Class is in session! Undersheriff William Cooley and I would like to wish all of the students across Western New York a successful and enjoyable school year. Whether you are sending your child off to Pre-K or working on your final semester before earning your college diploma, there is so much optimism for the future.I recently heard some of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officers reveal what makes them excited for classes to start back up again. They spoke about hearing the summer stories from students across their respective districts. I hope you and your family made deep-rooted memories over the past few months, and that the memories your children make in the coming months are just as enduring.
A couple of weeks ago, Chief Timothy Carney of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office Police Services Division joined our partners from the Buffalo Police Department, Amherst Police Department, New York State Police, New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, Williamsville Central School District and Erie County Clerk’s Office at the AAA of Western and Central New York headquarters. I thank AAA for hosting this event, as it placed an emphasis on the importance of exercising caution on the roads with school in session.
According to Operation Safe Stop, it is estimated that about 50,000 motor vehicles illegally pass a school bus each day in New York State. This is a potentially life-altering mistake to make. Laws and regulations pertaining to school buses exist to protect our children. Remember, if a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing, you must stop your vehicle, even on a divided highway. The fine for illegally passing a school bus ranges between $250 and $400. It could also add five points to your license and even earn you up to 30 days in jail. Subsequent violations carry even stiffer penalties. By now, you’ve surely noticed more traffic on the roads during your morning and evening commutes. If you haven’t already, I recommend adjusting your schedule accordingly so you do not feel rushed. Let’s all do our part to keep the children of Erie County safe!
August 15 - August 21, 2024
Message From the Sheriff - August 2024
ORCHARD PARK, NY - – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia announces the following information for the Carolina Panthers vs. Buffalo Bills game at Highmark Stadium. The game will begin Saturday, August 24th at 1:00 p.m. Info.
August 8 - August 14, 2024
August 1 - August 7, 2024
July 25 - July 31, 2024
Message From the Sheriff - August 2024
Erie County Sheriff John C. GarciaThese are some of the busiest, but most exciting days of the year for the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. It feels as if it has been a long offseason, but the Buffalo Bills are ready to take the field. This month, the team is hosting two preseason games before kicking off the regular season on September 8th. The Sheriff’s Office is just as ready as Bills Mafia! We take our responsibility to keep everyone safe in and around the stadium on game days very seriously.
Fans should know that with the construction of the new stadium progressing into a new phase, there will be less space available on stadium property. This will result in some changes to parking and traffic patterns in 2024. Please come to the stadium with a plan. If you have not pre-purchased a parking pass, the Bills will not have a spot available for you on the stadium grounds and you will need to park in a private lot. Before leaving for the stadium, familiarize yourself with the location of your seat and the most efficient spot to park and enter the stadium. We also request patience as everyone gets used to the traffic over the first few weeks of the season. As always, obey posted signage and follow the prompts of the deputies directing traffic.
We are also looking forward to seeing everyone at the Hamburg Fairgrounds for the Erie County Fair. This year, it runs from August 7th through the 18th. The fair organizers will once again be honoring our firefighters and veterans with free admission on August 9th and August 11th, respectively. My deputies will join our partners from the Town of Hamburg Police Department to make sure that everyone enjoys the event safely. Additionally, we will have personnel available to issue Child IDs and "Yellow Dot" kits.
Finally, I wanted to share a brief reminder that there is an August 14th deadline to apply to take the September 28th civil service exam. This examination is for anyone interested in joining our Police Services Division. We are also offering a separate exam for individuals who are fluent in the Seneca language. If you think there is someone you know who would make a great addition to our team, please convince them to sign up. The application can be found by clicking the “Join” tab on the Erie County Sheriff’s Office website.
Blue & Red Team Practice Info - August 2024
ORCHARD PARK, NY – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia announces the following information for the Return of the Blue & Red Team Practice at Highmark Stadium. The practice will begin Friday, August 2nd at 5:30 p.m. Sheriff Garcia recommends all guests review Highmark Stadium maps to locate the best lot in which to park and gate at which to enter. Additionally, all fans are reminded to familiarize themselves with the list of prohibited items at Highmark Stadium in order to avoid delays at the gates. See Info.
July 18 - July 24, 2024
July 11 - July 17, 2024
July 4 - July 10, 2024
June 27- July 3, 2024
June 20 - June 26, 2024
Suspected Overdose Death - June 2024
GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia cautions the public to be vigilant after the Police Services Division responded to a suspected overdose death on E. River Rd. in the Town of Grand Island Friday night. At approximately 8:30 p.m., patrol responded to the location to find a 58 year-old man experiencing a medical emergency. The responding deputy administered multiple doses of Narcan and commenced CPR. The male was pronounced deceased approximately 45 minutes later. Other individuals at the location informed patrol that the male had smoked crack/cocaine.After seven individuals died of suspected overdoses in less than five hours across Buffalo, Tonawanda, and Lackawanna on Monday, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office continues to have concern with the drug supply currently circulating in our community – particularly with respect to crack and/or cocaine. Drug users are reminded that their product is not safe. Dealers do not care about the health of their buyers. Instead, they are driven by simple greed.
As a reminder, Erie County offers free fentanyl test strips, xylazine test strips and Narcan. You can obtain these items by calling (716) 858-7695 or texting (716) 225-5473. The community must work together to address the record overdose statistics we are on pace to set this year. Please call (716) 858-7755 to report any drug activity in your neighborhood.
Sheriff Garcia, Undersheriff Cooley and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office offer condolences to the loved ones of those who died this week.
June 13 - June 19, 2024
June 6 - June 12, 2024
May 30 - June 5, 2024
May 23 - May 29, 2024
May 16 - May 22, 2024
Good Samaritan Rescues Jet Skiers - May 2024
Niagara River – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia commends the quick action of a Good Samaritan who pulled two individuals aboard his boat after a Jet Ski overturned in the Niagara River near Tonawanda Island.On Friday, May 24th at approximately 6:30 p.m., The U.S. Coast Guard, Erie County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and Air 1 responded to the aforementioned area after receiving a report that two people were in the water. Approximately four minutes after the 911 call was initiated, the Good Samaritan – a 53-year-old Grand Island man - was able to help the two individuals safely get onto his boat. They were turned over to the Coast Guard. This incident highlights the importance of boaters being alert at all times.
Two Arrested After Grand Island Traffic Stop - May 2024
Grand Island, N.Y. - Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia announces the arrest of Kenneth Munn, 56, of Buffalo and Amanda Ion, 30, of Buffalo after an investigation into a traffic complaint in Grand Island. On May 24th at approximately 8:30 p.m., the Erie County Sheriff’s Office Communications Unit received a report of a vehicle driving recklessly with its doors open on I-190. Patrol responded to the area and observed a vehicle matching the description in a Grand Island Blvd. parking lot. The vehicle exited the parking lot and turned northbound. After observing infractions, patrol pulled the vehicle over in the 1800 block of Grand Island Blvd. and identified Munn as the operator. Munn stated to patrol that his driver’s license was revoked. He was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the 3rd degree and multiple VTL Infractions and released on an appearance ticket.Patrol located a clear glass pipe with black residue on the floor of the passenger side of the vehicle. The passenger initially provided patrol with a false name. Upon being advised of the consequences of providing a false name to law enforcement, the passenger eventually identified herself as Ion. Ion was found to have an outstanding warrant out of the State of Pennsylvania. She was taken into custody and charged with False Personation and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 7th Degree.
During transport to the Erie County Holding Center, Ion spoke to patrol in a manner that indicated she had something in her mouth. Patrol pulled the vehicle over and observed a white, chalky substance in her mouth, on her lips and on her clothing. Patrol immediately summoned EMTs and observed Ion for signs of a drug overdose. Upon the arrival of EMTs, patrol heard Ion state that she pulled cocaine from her person and ate it. She was admitted to ECMC to undergo treatment and was additionally charged with Tampering with Physical Evidence.
Island Man Arrested on Drug Charges - May 2024
Grand Island, N.Y. - Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia reports the arrest of Jay Mudra, 29, of Grand Island by the Narcotics and Intelligence Unit. At approximately 7:45 p.m. on Thursday, May 16th, the Narcotics and Intelligence Unit performed a traffic stop on a vehicle being operated by Mudra in the area of Riverwoods Dr. and Timberlink Dr. in the Town of Grand Island. Deputies then executed a search warrant signed by Hon. Kenneth Case of Erie County Court for Mudra’s person and vehicle. The search revealed in excess of 8 ounces of cocaine.
Approximately one hour later, the Narcotics and Intelligence Unit executed a search warrant signed by Hon. Mark Nemeth of Grand Island Town Court for a residence on E. River Rd. in Grand Island. The search revealed in excess of 8 ounces of suspected cocaine, in excess of 625 milligrams of suspected psilocybin mushrooms, scales, cut, baggies and paperwork with Mudra’s name on it. As a result of the items found during execution of the two search warrants, Mudra has been charged with:
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 1st Degree
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 2nd Degree (2 counts)
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree (3 counts)
Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia in the 2nd Degree (3 counts)
May 9 - May 15, 2024
May 2 - May 8, 2024
April 25 - May 1, 2024
ECSO Seeking Public Assistance with Shots Fired Call - May 2024
GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. May 5, 2024 – Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia requests the public’s assistance with respect to a shots fired call in Grand Island on this afternoon’s date. At approximately 1:30 p.m., ECSO dispatch received calls from residents living in the area of N. Colony Rd. and Fix Rd. in the Town of Grand Island. Callers reported that one vehicle was chasing another while shooting at it. Thus far, the investigation indicates at least one home was struck by gunfire. Sheriff Garcia requests that those living in the neighborhood check any home security footage they may have recorded around 1:30 p.m. If such video exists, please call ECSO dispatch at (716) 858-2903. Please avoid the area as the investigation continues.Wildfire Awareness Month - May 2024
Erie County Sheriff John C. GarciaFellow residents of Erie County: We have been treated to a small handful of 70 degree days in recent weeks. But now, as we enter the month of May, we are all thinking about turning the corner into the summer months. Memorial Day Weekend is coming up quickly, and many of you are surely making plans to enjoy it outdoors.
Wildfire Awareness Month coincides with the improving weather. Each May, we take a moment to consider the importance of personal responsibility. Recall the Canadian wildfires last summer and how difficult it was for some of our neighbors to deal with the smoke. Of course, wildfires threaten lives, property and the natural resources around us. Did you know that a majority of them are caused by humans? They can occur anytime and anywhere, including here in Erie County. Most of them are preventable.
That is why I ask you to keep this in mind. When preparing a campfire, I urge you to take the time to clear the area of debris and overhead combustibles. Always have water and a shovel available. Do not use ignitable liquids. Try to avoid building a campfire on a windy day or during a drought. Don’t leave it unattended. Finally, when you are finished, make sure you put the fire out completely. It is also a good idea to clear needles, leaves, dry vegetation and other debris from your roof, gutters, porches and decks. Keep firewood and scrap wood piles away from buildings. When cooking on a grill, ensure that it has adequate clearance to combustibles and don’t leave it unattended.
Lastly, please comply with all state and local open burning regulations, as well as recreational and ceremonial fire regulations. Brush burning across New York State is banned through May 14th. This regulation highlights the increased risk of wildfires during this period. We should all take some time over the next few weeks to enjoy the outdoors of Erie County. But as always, do so safely.
April 18 - April 24, 2024
April 11 - April 17, 2024
April 4 - April 10, 2024
March 28 - April 3, 2024
March 21 - March 27, 2024
March 14 - March 20, 2024
Distracted Driving Awareness Month - April 2024
Erie County Sheriff John C. GarciaFellow residents of Erie County: As the weather warms up, you can expect our highways to be full of families on their way to and from their spring and summer activities. April ushers in Distracted Driving Awareness Month. While there is some positive news to share regarding trends, it is important that we continue our work across this community and nation to eliminate distracted driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of people killed in crashes involving distracted driving decreased more than 6% in 2022. While this is encouraging, the data still shows that 3,308 people across this country needlessly lost their lives. For these families, it doesn’t matter that the statistics are decreasing. All they know is that there is an empty chair at the dinner table.
Nearly 10% of all crashes the Erie County Sheriff’s Office investigated in 2023 were caused by distracted driving or driver inattention. This includes the use of a cell phone, GPS and vehicle infotainment systems. This is something that is so easily preventable. No text message is worth the life that it might cost. No phone call is worth the weeks or months that might be spent in the hospital.
You will be hearing much more about this issue later this month. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office and our partners in law enforcement will be highlighting the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee’s “No Empty Chair” campaign. During the week of April 22nd, we will be drawing attention to various highway safety initiatives. There will be accompanying enforcement details each day, including one focused on cell phone use and texting on April 24th. Other enforcement efforts will include speeding in school zones, seat belt and child restraints, passing stopped school buses and underage impaired driving.
The timing of this initiative is not coincidental. As prom and graduation season approaches, we are also nearing the 100 deadliest days for teen drivers. This represents the period between Memorial and Labor Days during which there is an increase in motor vehicle fatalities involving teen drivers. I urge parents to speak with their children about being safe behind the wheel, with a particular focus on distracted driving. Remember, they see your behavior while you are driving and will likely follow suit. I want you to know that law enforcement and traffic safety agencies across Erie County, New York State and the nation are committed to this issue.
Phone Scam - March 2024
BUFFALO, N.Y. - Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia reports that the Erie County Sheriff’s Office has received a number of reports on today’s date regarding the following scam. A caller purporting to be Captain Greg Savage with the “Erie County Sheriff’s Department Warrants and Citations Division” is telling recipients that he needs to discuss an urgent, ongoing civil matter with them. He is asking recipients to return his call at a phone number with a prefix of 831 (716-831-xxxx). THIS IS A SCAM.Here are some facts: There is currently no “Captain Greg Savage” employed by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. Our office is called the "Erie County Sheriff's Office," not the "Erie County Sheriff's Department". The correct number for the ECSO Warrant Office is (716) 858-3287 Anyone receiving this call should hang up immediately.
March 7 - March 13, 2024
February 29 - March 6, 2024
February 22 - February 28, 2024
Illegal Marijuana Sales - February 2024
Grand Island, N.Y. - Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia reports the arrest of 23-yearold, Thomas Muscoreil, of Grand Island, following an investigation. On February 27th, following an investigation into illegal marijuana sales out of businesses in the Town of Grand Island, led by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics and Intelligence Unit, Town of Grand Island Search Warrants, signed by Judge Mark Nemeth were executed at the Island Smoke Shop, located at 2423 Grand Island Blvd, and Island Smoke Shop 2, located at 1734 Grand Island Blvd. As a result of the investigation and search warrants, a large amount of cannabis concentrate, cannabis edibles and cannabis flower were recovered at both locations. Additionally, a large amount of US Currency believed to be from illegal marijuana sales was also recovered and seized.The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance as well as other NYS agencies assisted with the investigation. Muscoreil was charged with the following: Criminal Possession of Cannabis 2nd Degree (2 Counts) – Class E Felony. Muscoreil was processed and released on Desk Appearance Ticket.
