Tuesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on December 2, 2025
Sheriff’s Office Reports Highlight Assault on Deputy, Police Chase, Drug Charges, and Domestic Cases
Genesee County deputies reported several serious incidents over the past two weeks. On November 25th, Jacob Patterson of Batavia was arrested on a bench warrant and is accused of assaulting a deputy while resisting arrest. He was held for arraignment.
In Alexander, deputies say 23-year-old Dylan Kipfer led them on a pursuit along Route 98 on November 24th before eventually being stopped and issued multiple charges, including unlawful fleeing and reckless driving.
A Rochester man, Michael Cummings Jr., was charged November 26th after allegedly refusing to exit a vehicle being towed for lack of insurance. And 28-year-old Emoni Massey, also of Rochester, was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation and criminal possession of a controlled substance after deputies say he was found with cocaine during a traffic stop on Park Road.
Drug charges were also filed against 28-year-old Salvatore Schwable of Oakfield, who deputies say attempted to conceal narcotics on his person during a November 21st investigation.
In separate cases, Steven Nasewytewa of the Tonawanda Indian Reservation and LeeAnne Krull of Batavia were charged in domestic-related incidents involving children, and Nathaniel Wilson III of Batavia is accused of making 33 prohibited phone calls to a protected party in violation of a stay-away order.
HEAP Regular Benefit Opens December 1st for 2025–2026 Heating Season
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance has announced that the 2025–2026 Home Energy Assistance Program Regular Benefit opens Monday, December 1st. HEAP helps income-eligible households with heating costs and emergencies such as low fuel or utility shutoff notices.
Genesee County residents can apply starting December 1st online through the NYS myBenefits portal, by completing the HEAP application available on the OTDA website, or by submitting applications by mail, fax, or in person to the Genesee County Department of Social Services.
GR All-Stars
Alexander/Pembroke’s Tim Sawyer has been named Coach of the Year, leading a strong group of all-stars across the region. Alexander standouts include Jacob Bailey, Pierce Dinkins, Sean Pietrzykowski, Ryder Reichert, and Mason “Duke” Snyder — all recognized for major defensive play, explosive rushing, and key postseason performances.
Attica’s honorees were Jakk Chaplin, Hunter Green, Landon Nagel, and Chase Woodrow, each credited with game-changing moments in tight wins. Byron-Bergen’s Parker Moore, Elba’s Nick Scott and Brady Werth, Notre Dame’s Chase Antinore and TJ Cephus, and Pembroke’s Jacob Johnson and Wyatt Summers rounded out the list, all earning all-star status for leadership and clutch performances throughout the year.
Batavia Society of Artists Hosting Winter Members Show at Richmond Library
The Batavia Society of Artists will hold its annual Members Winter Show this Thursday, December 4th, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Richmond Memorial Library’s Gallery Room. The event showcases a variety of styles and mediums created by BSA member artists, with Lydia Zwierzynski featured this year.
Guests can meet the artists, view new seasonal works, and take part in selecting the People’s Choice Award. Light refreshments will be served, and the event is free and open to all ages. It’s a chance to celebrate and support the local arts community in Genesee County.
Batavia Business & Professional Women’s Club Opens 2026 Scholarship and Service Award Applications
The Batavia Business and Professional Women’s Club is now accepting applications for its annual Scholarship and Community Service Awards.
Scholarships are open to all graduating seniors in Genesee County high schools and GVEP who have at least an 85 average. Applications and full guidelines are available on the club’s website and Facebook page, and must be postmarked by Monday, February 9th, 2026.
Service groups in Genesee County may also apply for monetary awards by sending a request letter. More information is available by emailing bataviabpw@gmail.com