Morning News Briefing

A Rochester woman will appear in court next week following what deputies say was an alcohol-fueled vehicle crash in Bergen. Sheriff’s deputies said that 22-year-old Cynthia McKnight of Avenue D allegedly failed to yield for a stop sign, causing her vehicle to go off the road and into a field. There were no injuries. McKnight was charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content of .18% or more as well as failing to stop at a stop sign. She was directed to Town of Bergen court April 7^th.

VA Western New York Healthcare System says it has now tallied its 20,000^th COVID-19 vaccination. The milestone includes the vaccination of enrolled and eligible Veterans, Homeland Security employees and VA health care staff. Enrolled U.S. Army Veteran Kanesha Hicks, who deployed to Afghanistan with her Military Police unit, was the 20,000^th person to receive their first of two Pfizer vaccinations from the VA System. In the coming weeks, the new SAVE LIVES ACT legislation will authorize access to COVID-19 vaccinations for those not currently enrolled or eligible for VA health care.

New York is taking a major step toward legalizing marijuana. The State Assembly and Senate will take up a bill next week that would allow for personal possession of up to 3 ounces and legalize recreational weed. Despite his ongoing scandals, state leaders say they have now reached an agreement with Governor Cuomo to legalize marijuana for people over the age of 21. Municipalities can opt out of sales.

A man remains in the Genesee County Jail today. Batavia police arrested 28-year-old Andrew Roberts, charging him in in three separate bench warrants issued by City Court. He was arraigned and remanded to jail. He’ll return to court April 28^th.

A Williamsville man accused of violating an order of protection has been arrested on multiple counts. Deputies allege that 32-year-old Peter Mancuso went to a home on Roberts Road in Alabama and caused damage to a door, which violated the protection order. He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. A full stay-away order was issued.

A Batavia man is facing charges after allegedly being caught with a firearm on school grounds earlier this month. City police say 32-year-old Emery Green allegedly had a firearm on Batavia City School District property. He is charged with criminal possession of a weapon. Green was arraigned virtually in Batavia City Court by Judge Durin Rogers and was released on his own recognizance. Additional court action is set for April 13^th.

This is National Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Day. The annual observation will be conducted at the Botts Fiorito American Legion Post this afternoon at 5 p.m. The ceremony will take place outside at the Flagpole. The Auxiliary President will offer a reading in memory of three area servicemen who gave the ultimate sacrifice. They are Gary Scott, Harry Van Alst and George Fry. Following the remembrance reading, a wreath will be placed in memory of their service to this community, state and nation.