Police Report: Year Begins with Attempted Burglary, Car Break-Ins and Identity Theft
- Details
- Written by Traci Dutton Ludwig
- Hits: 6695
Attempted Burglary:
On January 8, a Kent Road man noticed a broken pane of glass on his house's side French door. Additionally a window screen was found to be damaged and removed, A rock was also found inside the house near the broken window pane. It appeared as if the perpetrator was not successful in entering the house, Police classified the incident as attempted burglary.
Car Break-Ins
A Fox Meadow Road resident reported approximately $2 in change and dental floss were stolen from his unlocked car while parked near the train station Jan. 12. Police noted weather conditions were especially foggy at the time of the incident.
On Jan. 13, a Greenacres Avenue woman reported quarters had been stolen from two cars parked in her driveway overnight. Police noted weather conditions were especially foggy at the time of the incident.
Identity Theft
On Jan. 13, a Berwick Road resident reported someone fraudulently attempted to file for disability and retirement benefits using the resident's Social Security number. The application was stopped after the Social Security administration noted inconsistencies in the application and called the resident for verification.
On Jan. 13, a Sheldrake Road man reported someone attempted to use his Social Security number to fraudulently file for benefits. The application was stopped after the Social Security administration noted inconsistencies in the application and called the resident for verification.
On Jan. 13, an Aspen Road woman reported a fraudulent Macy's credit card account was opened in her name Jan. 3. The fraudulent account was used to incur approximately $1,200 worth of unauthorized purchases. She also learned someone had opened a fraudulent Saks account in her name and accumulated $8,000 worth of fraudulent transactions. A person also attempted to open a fraudulent Victoria's Secret account in the woman's name, but the application was denied.
Arrest on Warrant
On Jan. 9, Sonia Liceth Gomez, 31, of Yonkers, turned herself in on an active arrest warrant issued Jan. 3 for failure to appear in court to resolve various vehicle and traffic charges. Her arrest wad processed at headquarters, and she was released on her own recognizance. She was issued an appearance ticket for Scarsdale Village Justice Court.
Assault
A bus monitor on an All County bus reported a child was hitting her on the bus Jan. 11. The bus was on Old Army Road, and police transferred the call to Greenburgh police.
D.O.A.
An 88-year-old man, of Birchall Road, died at home of natural causes Jan. 13. Police did not release the man's name.
Welfare Check
A neighbor asked police to check the welfare of a 90-year-old couple on Nelson Road Jan. 8. The couple said they needed help clearing snow from their driveway so they could go out in their car to go shopping and attend doctors' appointments. Police provided them with the phone number of a snow removal company.
Mail
In Jan. 9, a Brita Avenue man reported an ongoing problem with his mail delivery. He said he believes Social Security statements and payments have been removed from his mail for approximately two years. He said magazines frequently arrive late, ripped or not at all. He said sometimes his mail is delivered to the wrong address.
Handball
A caller reported a man playing handball on the grounds of Scarsdale Middle School Jan. 9. Patrol spoke with the principal who identified the man as a local resident who frequently plays handball on the middle school outdoor court. Because of snow, he moved his game to an exterior wall of the building. The principal said he should not be considered suspicious.
Asleep
A driver fell asleep at a traffic light at Post and Mamaroneck roads at 3 p.m., Jan. 13. Patrol tapped on the window, and the man woke up. He passed all field sobriety tests and submitted to an alco-sensor test, which came back negative. The man said he does not get much sleep and felt very tired. He decline medical assistance.
Bad Manners
A customer at Chat restaurant was becoming unruly, and the manager asked police to escort the man out of the restaurant at 6:30 p.m., Jan. 13. The customer was observed to be acting rude with staff and hovering over other customers. The customer was told he was no longer welcome at Chat.
Doorbell
A Nelson Road resident reported someone rang his doorbell and left at 11 p.m., Jan. 14.
At 11:15, Jan. 14, a Bradley Road resident reported hearing her doorbell ring. A surveillance camera showed the bell had been pushed by four individuals who quickly ran away.
Phone
A person dropped his cell phone into a sewer grate while exiting his car on Spencer Place Jan. 15. Patrol contacted the highway department to assist with retrieval.
Cars and Roadways
A car stuck a yield sign at East Parkway and Spencer Place Jan. 8. The highway department was notified.
A tow truck was called for a disabled van on Griffen Avenue Jan. 8.
A snowplow knocked over a "Welcome to Scarsdale" sign on Post Road. Police notified the highway department Jan. 8.
A driver reported her car started rolling backwards at the intersection of Popham and Taunton roads Jan. 9. She called police stating she was concerned and she did not know why her car was rolling. Police arrived and the advised her they could call a tow truck if she did not feel safe in the car. She said the rolling had stopped, and she elected to drive her car home.
Police directed traffic around a disabled car on Saxon Woods Road Jan. 9.
Police identified a parked car with scofflaw status in Freightway Garage Jan. 10.
Police were unable to tow it to the impound lot because the tow truck operator was unable to remove it due to cars parked closely on both sides.
On Jan. 11, patrol towed a car with scofflaw status from Freightway Garage. The car's registered received a summons for an expired inspection, and it was confirmed that the owner owed more than $1,000 in parking fines to the Village.
Patrol shut water to a broken outdoor faucet at a Fountain Terrace house Jan. 10.
The department of transportation was notified about a pothole in need of repair on Post Road Jan. 11. The pothole caused at least one driver to sustain two flat tires.
A police car sustained a flat tire on Mamaroneck Road. A tow truck took the car to the highway department lot, and other officers took the policeman back to headquarters.
Police notified the highway department about a fallen tree at Weaver Street and Bypass Jan. 12.
Police lifted a fallen telephone and secured it to the side of a house on Church Lane Jan. 12. Verizon was notified.
Police removed a piece of metal debris from Hutchison Avenue and Herkimer Road Jan. 13.
A driver with a flat tired pulled off Fox Meadow Road and temporarily parked in a resident's driveway to get off the road Jan. 14. The driver reported the homeowner was becoming "aggressive" with him. Patrol's attempts at contacting the homeowner were unsuccessful. Patrol contacted a tow truck to help the driver.
The water department was informed about a water main break on Axtell Road and pooling water on Crossway Jan. 15.
Police dispersed teen sitting in a car, talking, from Circle Road Jan. 15.
Nine car accidents were reported in the village this week.
Civil Matter
A mother informed police that her ex-husband arrived at her house two hours early to pick up their children for a scheduled visitation Jan. 12, Also, the ex-husband did not comply with the couple's agreement to exchange custody of the children in the public safety parking lot, as agreed. The mother wanted a report issued for documentation purposes only.
Animals
A concerned citizen called police to report seeing a dog outside in weather that was "possibly too cold" Jan. 8. Patrol spoke with the dog's owner who said the dog had been let outside to relieve itself before being in the car for a walk.
An Oak Way resident found a mutilated rabbit carcass on her from walkway Jan. 10. She requested patrol to look at the carcass to determine if the rabbit's demise was the result of an incident with another animal. Patrol thought the rabbit had been killed and left there following a scuttle with another animal. There were no signs of criminality.
A Post Road resident reported a hawk landed in her driveway and flew away after eating a small animal Jan. 11.
A Lyons Road resident complained about constant barking from a neighbor's dog Jan. 14. Patrol heard the dog barking, could not reach the owner, and issued the owner a summons when the owner eventually arrived home.
Lost and Found
On Jan. 8, a visitor from a foreign country, who was staying with a family member in Scarsdale, reported losing her Dell laptop computer while on her trip. She last saw the computer at the Natural History Museum, in New York City, Jan. 2.
On Jan 10, a passerby found a cell phone on Chase Road and gave it to police. Patrol located the owner, who had lost the phone after visiting the post office, and returned the phone.
A car key found on Post Road was brought to headquarters Jan. 11. Later that day, a young woman came to headquarters looking for her Cushman Road host parent's lost car key. Police matched the woman with the key and returned the key to her.
Firefighters
According to Scarsdale Fire Chief James Seymour, firefighters responded to 54 incidents from Jan. 8 -15. He shared the following notable incidents and said firefighters "saw and increase in water-related incidents due to temperature differences."
On Jan. 8, a Heathcote Road resident said a chimney downdraft was causing smoke in the house. Firefighters found a faulty flue in the fireplace and used a thermal imaging device to confirm the fire was contained to the fireplace. Firefighters removed burning logs and extinguished them outside. Smoke was cleared from the house with natural ventilation through open doors and windows. While ventilating the house, the resident became extremely disoriented and angry. Her mental state quickly deteriorated, and she complained of not being able to talk or see. Police contacted an SPD an ambulance. Scarsdale Volunteer Ambulance Corps arrived and transported the resident to the hospital.
Firefighters assisted at a single vehicle car accident on the Hutchinson River Parkway Jan. 9. They responded to another car accident in the village Jan. 11.
On Jan. 9, a Palmer Ave. restaurant employee reported heat and smoke from a possible short circuit coming from an electrical outlet in the kitchen. Firefighters found the restaurant open, with employees preparing food and serving customers. Workers reported an electrical outlet in the kitchen area was smoking. Firefighters shut the breaker to outlet. They found a non GFI outlet was jumped to a GFI outlet in a double outlet housing. The electrical tape encircling the non GFI outlet was beginning to burn generating the smoke from the outlet. A check with a thermal imaging camera for heat in the wall around the outlet was negative. Firefighters disconnected outlets, kept the circuit breaker in the off position and advised the owner to call an electrician.
On Jan. 10, firefighters were dispatched to Brewster Road house for a reported outdoor gas odor. Upon arrival, firefighters noted a gas odor in the rear yard and requested Con Edison to respond. Upon further investigation, gas readings were found in a patio crawl space containing a gas pipe feeding a generator and barbecue grill. Gas was shut to the area, and firefighters observed readings lower in the crawl space. Upon Con Edison's arrival, Con Edison found gas leaking from the pipe in the exterior wall and one coupling on the exterior pipe. Gas was shut off to that area. The scene turned over to Con Edison for further checks and repairs.
This report covering police and fire department activity from Jan. 8-15 has been compiled from official information.
This police report is sponsored by Scarsdale Security who does more than just security. Contact them about remote video for your home or business. Call 914-722-2200 or visit their website.
Police Report: Stolen Packages Continue Holiday-Season Crime Trend
- Details
- Written by Traci Dutton Ludwig
- Hits: 6976
On Jan. 5, a Fairview Court resident reported an Amazon delivery from FedEx had been stolen from her property or never delivered. It contained a Nintendo Switch valued at $329.29. It was ordered on Dec. 10 and, according to FedEx, delivered on Dec. 15. It was intended to be a gift from a friend.
On Jan. 5, a Mayflower Road resident reported that she received a package she had not ordered from Saks Fifth Avenue. The resident told the police she had learned of a fraudulent purchase from Saks after her credit card company, American Express, called her to verify the purchase. She told AmEx that the purchase was fraudulent and assumed the transaction had been cancelled. After receiving the package, she called the police to ask if she should give the package to patrol or return it to Saks. Since Saks had already closed the account and reversed all fraudulent charges, patrol advised her to return the package to Saks. A few hours later, the resident called back and informed patrol that someone had trespassed on her property and stolen another package left out for return pickup. The package was a return of clothing worth $600 to Zappos. She learned this from a neighbor who observed a white Mercedes-Benz parked outside the woman's house earlier that day. The neighbor said she then saw an unknown man with a red jacket run from the resident's porch with a package in his hands, get into the car and drive away.
An Aspen Road resident reported a package theft Jan. 6. He told police he shipped a large package containing clothing, personal effects and prescription medications from Yonkers to Sarasota, Florida, on Dec. 19. When the package arrived on Dec. 22, it had a new label, was in a different box and was missing approximately half the contents. The man said he spoke to FedEx and a police agency in New Jersey. Both advised him to touch base with his home jurisdiction.
Note about mail delivery: We received this letter from Scarsdale resident Ken Rilander:
I am writing this as a service to fellow Scarsdale Residents. A number of us have been having problems with our US Postal Service Mail home delivery.Mail has been stolen(a Federal Crime),checks and Social Security numbers may have been stolen by Postal employees. This has happened in the past year in Larchmont (reported by NBC television news) and Greenburgh (As reported by Paul Feiner's office.) If you have been having or have a problem with your US mail delivery please contact Sigfredo Solano. He is the person at the US Post Office (sigfredo.j.solano@usps.gov and copy ScarsPOComplaint@gmail.com) to get him involved with your mail delivery problems.
Dead On Arrival
On Jan. 4, police received a call from a Massachusetts man concerned about his 86-year-old Valley Road mother. He said he had not been able to reach her since Jan. 3. Police performed a welfare check and found the woman unresponsive. Paramedics were called, and they pronounced the woman dead. No sign of foul play was observed, and the medical examiner determined that the woman had died of natural causes. Massachusetts police were contacted to notify her son.
Stolen
On Jan. 4, a Richbell Road woman reported jewelry had been stolen from her house. Jewelry included a $350 silver ring with a large purple stone, $450 gold earrings with blue and green stones and a $40 maroon winter hat printed with the Harvard logo on front. The woman said the earrings held sentimental value because they were a birthday gift from her daughter. The woman said she last saw the jewelry items on Dec. 7 in a bedroom drawer.
Identity Theft
On Jan. 3, a Walworth Avenue woman reported her husband's identifying information had been used to fraudulently open a Brooks Brothers credit card.
On Jan. 5, a Bradford Road resident reported someone wrote fraudulent checks against her account. In total, three fraudulent checks were dated Jan. 2, and one fraudulent check was dated Dec. 19. Signatures on the fraudulent checks did not match the account holder's signature. The checks' payee name was unknown to the woman. Chase bank was informed, and the woman's accounts were closed.
Check Fraud
On Jan. 6, a Colvin Road woman reported someone attempted to buy furniture from her using a fraudulent check. The furniture – a desk for $700 and a table for $750 – had been advertised on Craigslist. After two alleged buyers agreed on these prices, each one sent checks to the woman in excess of the purchase prices. One check was for $1,750 and the other check was for $2,250. Each "buyer" told the woman to use the extra cash to pay the moving company who was going to come to retrieve the items. The woman said she attempted to cash both checks but was told that the checks were fraudulent. A tentative pickup date was scheduled for Jan. 12. Police told the woman to cease all contact with the proposed "buyers." Detectives are following up.
Harassment
A Garth Road tenant reported that his landlord was harassing his family Jan. 6. According to the tenant, the landlord left a threatening voicemail on the tenant's wife's phone. The voicemail requested that the wife return the phone call in regard to the safety of herself and their daughter. Police asked the man to preserve the voicemail for further investigation.
Car Break-In
A man wearing a dark colored wool beanie was seen inside a Black Hawk Road resident's parked car at 2 a.m., Jan. 3. Upon being seen, the man allegedly jumped out of the car and ran to a silver sedan that quickly fled the area. Nothing was reported stolen by the car's owner.
Trespassing
A black man, approximately 6 feet tall and wearing a hoodie was reportedly inside a Spencer Place business when an early-morning cleaning employee showed up at the location for work at 5:30 a.m., Jan. 3. The employee advised that the man was discovered sleeping inside a garbage closet, disheveled and smelling bad. Upon waking up, the man left the garbage closet, left the building and headed toward Scarsdale train station. Police caught up with the man, who was identified as a 52-year-old homeless person from Brooklyn. He had a lengthy criminal record, but there were no outstanding wants or warrants. The man told police he was inside the building as part of a cleaning crew. However, police determined that the man's story was a lie. The owner of the building was notified and did not want to press charges against the homeless man. The man was then transported to a shelter in White Plains, due to the cold weather.
Dispute
On Jan. 6, a 50-year-old Bronxville man reported being pushed by an unknown man following a verbal altercation on Garth Road. The push led to the Bronxville man's phone falling to the ground and breaking. The dispute allegedly occurred because the Bronxville man beeped his car horn at another driver who was partially in the roadway. The unknown man allegedly got out of his car and started cursing at the Bronxville man. The two men then entered a bagel shop. Their loud arguing caused a bagel shop employee to escort the unknown man out of the store. After the Bronxville man made a purchase and left the store, he observed that the unknown man was still inside his car. The Bronxville man said he took out his phone to videotape the unknown man's car and license plate number, at which time, the physical altercation occurred. During the altercation, the unknown man attempted to grab the Bronxville man's phone, which caused the phone to drop and the screen to break. A second video taken by the Bronxville man shows the unknown man's wife directing him back into the car, where a clear view of the license plate could be seen. The Bronxville man said he was not injured, but he wanted the unknown man to pay for the damage to his phone. A license plate check revealed the owner of the car – ostensibly the "unknown man" – to be a 59-year-old Garth Road resident of Eastchester. Police called the Garth Road man and advised him to report to headquarters. He confirmed the story and said he would pay for the damages caused to the Bronxville man's cell phone.
Water
Water collecting on Archer Lane was coming from a ruptured garden hose that had been left on at a homeowner's property Jan. 2. Patrol shut off the water valve. Firefighters assisted by disconnecting the hose.
Patrol notified the water department about a broken water main at Crossway and Hillview Drive and a leaking fire hydrant at Weaver ad Cornell streets Jan. 6.
Patrol notified the water department about a water main break on Walworth Avenue Jan. 7. A Walworth Avenue resident reported water "running out of the side of his house" Jan. 8, and the water department said the condition was in the process of being addressed.
A Fenimore Road resident reported a malfunctioning sump pump caused water to flow onto the sidewalk and roadway, causing an icing condition Jan. 7. Patrol roped off the area with caution tape and notified the highway department.
Snow
A caller reported two children, approximately seven and nine years old, were outside "shoveling snow for over one hour with no parents outside" on Kathy Lane. The caller said she was "very concerned for the welfare of the children" since the weather was "severely cold and windy." Patrol went to the location and saw two kids playing with snow near the end of a private road. The kids were properly dressed for winter weather, and their mother was outside watching them play. No police action was needed.
An unknown man rang a Fayette Road doorbell at 11: 57 p.m., Jan. 4, asking if the homeowner needed the driveway to be plowed. The man then allegedly left in a work van. The homeowner thought it was suspicious due to the later hour and called police. Patrol canvassed the area and saw only a man clearing snow from driveways in a pickup truck – not a van.
Home Alone?
At 12:15 a.m., Jan. 6, an eight-year-old boy called 911 stating he woke up and thought he and his six-year-old sister were home alone because they did not see any adults in their Brookby Road house. Police went to the house and the children said their babysitter put them to bed earlier in the evening. Upon waking up in the middle of the night, they were concerned because they did not see any adults. Patrol checked the house and found their father sleeping in the basement. The father said he came home at 10:30 p.m. and let the babysitter go home. Further investigation confirmed the children were never left unattended.
Assistance Rendered
Police escorted a Chateaux Circle man into his apartment and basement to retrieve personal belongings, as per a court order, Jan. 5.
A Black Birch Lane woman reported she had opened her back deck door and was unable to close it again Jan. 5. Patrol helped the woman successfully close her door.
A man got stuck in the elevator of Christie Place garage Jan. 6. He banged on the door until it opened. Patrol arrived, and the man declined further assistance. Firefighters assessed the elevator and put it out of service.
Cars and Roadways
Police called a tow for a disabled car on Post Road Jan. 2.
The highway department was notified about a missing crosswalk sign at the intersection of Fenimore and Brewster roads Jan. 2. The sign had been damaged and removed as a result of damage from a car.
A Madison Road woman reported three of her car's tires had been slashed overnight Jan. 2 to Jan. 3. She did not take photos of the allegedly slashed tires before she had them replaced at an auto body shop.
A Spier Road woman noticed an unknown car parked in her driveway Jan. 4. She thought the car belonged to a neighbor. Police verified the car's registration came back to a neighbor. The woman said she did not need further assistance.
A car was stuck in the snow on Drake Road Jan. 4. Police helped the driver move the car onto Post Road.
A deer was caught in a Heathcote Road gate Jan. 5. Police managed to motion the deer to back itself out of the gate and regain its freedom. It left the area without apparent injury.
Patrol called a tow for a car with a flat tire on Post Road at 1 a.m., Jan. 6.
A tree fell on Fenimore Road, blocking both lanes, Jan. 6. Police contacted the highway department for removal.
After a stop sign fell down at Griffen and Grand Park avenues, police erected a temporary stop sign Jan. 7.
Eight car accidents were reported in the village this week.
Dogs
A caller reported Crest Lane dogs were outside Jan. 6. The dog's owner told patrol the dogs were outside for only a short period of time to relive themselves.
Lost and Found
On Jan. 31, a Chateaux Circle resident reported losing a pearl necklace while walking in the village Dec. 31.
A man found a purse on Ridgecrest East while walking his dog Jan. 7. The purse contained a New York State driver's license, Honda car keys and $52 cash. Patrol contacted the owner's father who responded to headquarters to pick up the purse.
Firefighters
According to Fire Chief James Seymour, the Scarsdale Fire Department responded to 45 calls this week, including at least two car accidents in the village and on parkways. Among these calls, were the following incidents:
On Jan. 3, firefighters were dispatched to a Fairview Road house for a carbon monoxide alarm. Upon arrival, firefighters found elevated carbon monoxide levels in the house and a broken water pipe, with extensive water damage, on the second floor. The furnace was shut down and the house was ventilated. The water main was shut down, and water pipes were drained. Con Edison responded and shut off the gas main, also tagging it, due to the extensive damage to the house. Multiple attempts were made to contact the owner, with negative results. The main breaker for the house was also shut off. The water department was notified to remove the water meter.
On Jan. 4, Con Edison reported a propane odor inside a Walworth Avenue house. Firefighters arrived to investigate and found renovation contractors operating propane heaters inside the house to keep warm. There were no apparent propane leaks and no readings of explosive gas or carbon monoxide. Firefighters advised the contractors that the indoor use of propane heaters was dangerous and unlawful. The propane heaters were turned off. Con Edison was on scene repairing natural gas service to house, which would thus allow the house's heating system to be turned back on.
A Nelson Road resident reported a possible chimney fire Jan. 4. Residents evacuated and waited for firefighters. Upon arrival, firefighters saw no visible smoke or flames from the chimney. Firefighters performed a primary search of first, second and third floors with a thermal imaging camera. No evidence of heat from a fire was found. As per police, the resident said there were burning embers in the basement boiler room. Firefighters performed a primary search of the basement and found burning embers on the concrete floor of the boiler room. The fireplace cleanout door was ajar and had some smoke coming from it. Firefighters used a chimney kit to remove embers from the house and a chimney bucket to empty the fireplace. They also cleaned out the chimney firebox. Firefighters determined that hot embers were dropping into the chimney cleanout in the basement, due to a missing cover plate for the cleanout located in main fireplace on first floor. Firefighters confirmed that the burning embers were contained to the fireplace, the cleanout and the basement's concrete floor, without further extension. Firefighters advised the resident to have the fireplace serviced and the chimney cleanout door replaced before using fireplace again.
On Jan. 8, firefighters were called about a smoke odor in a Herkimer Road basement. Firefighters detected a slight haze and smell of smoke, strongest in the basement. The owner had shut off the heating system, thinking the odor was coming from that system. Firefighters were unable to locate the origin of the burning odor and attempted to turn the heating system back on. The homeowner stated the thermostat was not working, Firefighters examined the electrical box in the heating unit and found burnt wires. Firefighters shut gas and electricity to the unit and advised the homeowner to have it serviced.
This report covering police and fire department activity from Jan. 2-7 has been compiled from official information.
This police report is sponsored by Scarsdale Security who does more than just security. Contact them about remote video for your home or business. Call 914-722-2200 or visit their website.
Scarsdale Family Killed in Plane Crash in Costa Rica
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 24825
A family of five Scarsdale residents died in a plane crash in Costa Rica on New Year's Eve day at 12:16 pm local time. Bruce and Irene Steinberg and their three sons Matthew, William and Zach, all of Greendale Road, were among 12 people who died when their plane crashed en route from Punta Islita to San Jose Costa Rica. The other victims were a family of four from Florida, a Backroads travel guide, the pilot and co-pilot.
The Nature Air Cessna 208 Caravan crashed shhortly after takeoff in a mountainous area near the Pacific coastal beach town of Punta Islita in the Guanacaste peninsula. It burst into flames. The cause of the crash is remains under investigation.
Stephen Beaudreau, a retired Spanish teacher living in Costa Rica contacted 
Scarsdale10583 and said the following about the cause of the crash:
"They aren´t saying anything at the moment. Reporters did ask the authorities if they thought it was due to mechanical failure or the plane being overweight, but they just replied that they couldn´t say anything at this time. They did, however, report strong wind gusts in the area, but that is pretty normal for this time of year, and pilots are used to flying in those conditions. It was also sunny and clear. It seems that the plane was able to take off, but shortly after take off crashed into a hillside near the airport, and burst into flames."
Liz Einbinder, a spokesperson for Backroads sent her comments to Scarsdale10583.
Zachary, (SHS '16) was a student at Johns Hopkins University, Will, (SHS '17) attended the University of Pennsylvania and Matthew was a student at Fieldston. The Steinbergs were members of Westchester Reform Temple and Sunningdale Country Club. Bruce Steinberg was a senior investor at Bridgewater in Connecticutt. The community is in shock and all are mourning this tragic loss.
Family friend Karen Asher Metviner said, "We loved their family. Zach was my son Joseph's best friend and will miss him every day. The world is a sadder, more lonely place without them. Our hearts are aching. No one should have to bury their children, but grandchildren as well - and a whole family - it's an unimaginable nightmare."
Scarsdale Schools Superintendent Thomas Hagerman sent out the following message to the community on Monday January 1:
Dear Scarsdale Schools Community:
By now you have likely heard the very sad news that all five members of the Steinberg family died in a plane crash yesterday. This tragedy is hard to process for a variety of reasons, not least among them the loss of an entire family in one instant.
Zachary graduated in 2016 and William in 2017; third son Matthew was at Fieldston. Irene Steinberg was actively involved in giving her time to the District, chairing the High School's College and Career Center. The Steinbergs' recent graduation dates and rich involvement in the District created a variety of connections which intensify the grief we feel.
School counselors will be available for any students who need support when we return to school tomorrow, and we will add resources if the need arises. In addition, District alumni who are home for the holiday break are invited to visit with our counseling staff. If you are aware of someone who is struggling with grief, please alert a member of the counseling staff or the administrative team so that we may reach out.
May we transform the sense of loss we feel as we welcome the new year into a deep gratitude for the life and love we enjoy every day.
Sincerely,
Dr. Thomas Hagerman
Superintendent of Schools
State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, who lives in Scarsdale, sent her condolences:
I would like to offer condolences to the Steinberg family today following the tragic deaths of Bruce and Irene Steinberg, who were killed along with their sons Matthew, William and Zachary in a plane crash in Costa Rica on Sunday.
I can't imagine the overwhelming grief the Steinberg family is feeling today. While I didn't know the Steinbergs personally, they were Scarsdale residents. I know my community – I have lived in Scarsdale for decades – and I know that it is at times like this that we will pull together to help this family in any way possible.
The Steinberg family will be in our hearts and prayers today. While we celebrate the possibilities that come along with the New Year, let us not forget this family and the lives that were cut short.
The UJA Federation of New York issued this statement:
UJA-Federation of New York mourns the loss of our dear friend, Irene Steinberg, and her family, who tragically died this weekend. Irene and her family have been long-time UJA supporters and Irene most recently served as an area chair of the Scarsdale women's campaign. The family was generous, kind, and loved being part of the Scarsdale and Jewish communities. Irene worked tirelessly on behalf of UJA, helping us support vulnerable New Yorkers and was an extraordinary person -- devoted mother and wife and loyal friend. She and her family will be sorely missed.
Bereavement Support will be offered at Westchester Reform Temple at 255 Mamaroneck Road in Scarsdale this week from 1:30 and 3:30 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. A memorial service will be held for the family at Westchester Reform Temple on Sunday January 7 at 2 pm.
Please share your memories of the Steinberg's in the comments section below:
Police Report: Scarsdale Men Arrested After Posting Incriminating Snapchat Photo
- Details
- Written by Traci Dutton Ludwig
- Hits: 7651
On December 27, two young men from Scarsdale were arrested after they were found to be unlawfully hanging out in an acquaintance's basement, without that person's knowledge or permission, with marijuana and related paraphernalia. Shortly after 6:30 p.m., police were called by the resident of the house, who reported people were in his house without permission. The resident showed police a Snapchat message received by one of the suspects, stating "about to watch football" with a photo of the resident's basement. Police checked the resident's house and found an unlocked door. They entered the house, performed an interior check and found no one inside the house. However, while checking the house, police found a box containing 26 grams of marijuana. A police officer was assigned to observe the house for the remainder of the shift tour. While watching the house from her car, the police officer saw two young men walk across the lawn of the house, from the vicinity of the previously unlocked door. The two men got into a car, and police performed a traffic stop at Brewster and Fenimore roads. The young men, ages 19 and 20, are from Scarsdale. Two other people were also in the car, but police did not release their names. When asked where they were coming from, the suspects said they were coming from cleaning a friend's basement. Police asked if they had permission to be in the house, and the young men said "no." While speaking with them, a marijuana-filled marijuana grinder and a marijuana pipe were observed in plain view between the front seats. They were each charged with second-degree criminal trespassing. The older suspect was additionally charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. The younger suspect was additionally charged with third-degree possession of a forged instrument. This charge was the result of the possession of multiple fake driver's licenses from New York and Connecticut. These licenses stated an improper birthdate, alleging that he was three years older than he really was. Bail was set at $100 each. The older suspect's father posted bail for the young men, and they were released with appearance tickets.
D.O.A.
On Dec. 26, a 93-year-old Palmer Avenue woman died of natural causes at home.
Stolen checks
On Jan. 1, a Corell Road man reported Citibank checks were stolen from his house and fraudulently cashed. He noticed the crime while checking his account online Dec. 29. One check, written against his account, was for $2,300.50. Another check, written against his wife's Bank of America account, was for $2,652.99. Both accounts were immediately closed after the incident was discovered. Neither the man nor his wife knew the person to whom the checks were written.
Dispute
Two residents of a Post Road group home were involved in a verbal argument Dec. 30. Police mediated the argument and recommended that the two residents avoid contact with each other.
Boyfriend
A caller from Tory Lane reported he was on vacation but, via his security cameras, he saw a car pull up in front of his house at approximately 12:05 a.m., Dec. 28. Patrol went to the house, checked the exterior and saw no signs of criminal activity. While patrol was returning to the police car, patrol saw a man come out of the backyard of the Tory Lane house. The man saw patrol and immediately took off running. Patrol pursued the man and stopped him behind the house. The man was identified as a Scarsdale resident. He said he had been at his girlfriend's house on Olmsted Road, but he parked his car on Tory Lane because he is not allowed to be at his girlfriend's house. He told police that he ran out of the house when his girlfriend's father came home. He said he thought patrol was his girlfriend's father and therefore took off running. Patrol confirmed the man's story with the girlfriend and her father.
Locked out
While responding to an emergency gas call, firefighters entered a Secor Road house and locked the door upon leaving Dec. 28. Neither the homeowner nor the housekeeper could get back inside the house because neither had a key for the bottom lock, which firefighters had secured. The homeowner called police for assistance. Firefighters were dispatched and entered the house through a second floor window. They unlocked the door from the inside.
An Uber driver called police to advise that a fare he just dropped off on Valley Road might need assistance getting in his house at 1:15 a.m., Dec. 31. With police assistance, a neighbor advised that the fare, a young man, could stay at the neighbor's house until the young man's parents got home.
Cars and roadways
A couple sitting in a parked car in the parking lot of Hitchcock Church, on Greenacres Avenue, after 1 a.m., Dec. 26, told police they had just met each other and had stopped to talk.
On Christie Place, Dec. 26, the parking enforcement officer noticed a parked car with scofflaw violations for unpaid parking tickets. The car's owner said he would take care of the violations and fines the following day.
A resident complained about a parked car at the dead end of Stratton Road Dec. 26. It was occupied by two teenagers. They said they were there to talk and left the area.
The highway department was informed about a damaged crosswalk sign at Fenimore and Brewster roads Dec. 28.
An unknown car was found parked in an Overlook Road driveway while the homeowner was away Dec. 28. Police determined the car belonged to a neighbor's father who was visiting from out of town. Everything was in good order.
One car accident was reported in the village this week.
Civil matter
On Dec. 27, a Saxon Woods Road woman reported she verbally agreed to sell her Jaguar car to a family friend for $40,000. They had an open payment schedule, and the buyer has paid everything except $5,000. The woman said she is afraid the buyer is delaying the DMV process to transfer ownership, and she would like to get the car out of her name. Policed called the buyer. He said the there was a misunderstanding, and he would call the owner and immediately settle the terms to complete the sale.
Dogs
Police reunited a lost dog, found on Post Road, with its owner Dec. 26. A verbal warning was issued.
Village code
A contractor was using construction equipment and making noise at 6:30 a.m., Dec. 27, on Lee Road. Police advised him of village code regarding noise and power tools and equipment. The contractor then turned off the equipment and agreed to resume only after 8 a.m.
An audible smoke alarm was ringing in a White Road house Jan. 1. A neighbor complained of noise. Patrol issued a summons for a village code violation associated with noise.
Lost and found
A passerby found a check, issued by an Overhill Road business, on Chase Road Dec. 29. Police returned the check to the business.
An abandoned Trek Seven 2 bicycle was found on Ogden Road Dec. 31. A lock and helmet were attached to the bike. Police vouchered it at headquarters.
A person found a wallet at Scarsdale train station and brought it to headquarters Dec. 31. It was vouchered at headquarters for safekeeping.
A father who was playing basketball with his sons reported finding a black Adidas backpack near basketball courts on Brewster Road Jan. 1. It contained miscellaneous glass pipes. Police took custody of the backpack,
Firefighters
According to Fire Chief James Seymour, firefighters responded to 39 incidents in the past week, of which Seymour shared some notable occurrences.
On Dec. 28, an outside gas leak on Secor Road required firefighters to assist Con Edison in checking houses. Gas service was shut at the street, and at least six houses were evaluated. Gas appliances were shut off in the houses while Con Edison was making repairs to the outside line. Then, appliances were relit, and houses were secured.
Water was leaking through the ceiling of a Morris Lane garage Dec. 29. Firefighters made sure the water supply was shut off, and they disconnected electrical power to a light fixture in the garage. They advised the homeowner to call a plumber.
On Dec. 30, a heat transfer pump overheated in an East Parkway building, causing smoke. Firefighters disconnected power and informed the building manager and an impacted business manager.
Firefighters helped the White Plains fire department hoist occupants out of a stalled elevator in a City Place building in White Plains Dec. 31.
This report covering police and fire department activity from Dec. 26, 2017, through Jan. 1, 2018, has been compiled from official information.
This police report is sponsored by Scarsdale Security who does more than just security. Contact them about remote video for your home or business. Call 914-722-2200 or visit their website.
Scarsdale School and County Taxes Cannot be Prepaid for 2018 Afterall
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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Despite the best efforts of Scarsdale School and Village officials, it does not appear that Scarsdale taxpayers will be able to prepay their county and school taxes for 2018. Though the Village did collect 2018 tax payments from some residents early this week, we have now learned that the school and county portions cannot be prepaid. The Scarsdale Village Board will meet in executive session on Thursday morning December 28 to determine whether or not the Village can issue their warrant for taxes. If so, residents will have a few days to pre-pay the 2018 Village portion of their taxes which represents about 18% of the property tax bill.
However it remains to be seen whether or not the IRS will allow deductions of these prepayments from resident's 2018 tax returns.
Village Hall is staffed to handle the payments. Scarsdale Village Treasurer Mary Lou McClure and two Village employees are on hand to accepts checks and explain the changing scenario to those who come by. Anyone who paid their total 2018 taxes with one check earlier this week, can go back, retrieve that check and write a smaller check for the Village portion of their tax bill.
Governor Cuomo's order to allow prepayment sent municipal officials into a blitz of activity in a normally quiet vacation week between Christmas and New Years. Officials on all levels struggled to find out if they could legally issue early tax warrants to accept pre-payments. It now appears that Governor Cuomo's actions, while politically expedient, may have caused lots of unnecessary work.
Here are the latest press releases from the Scarsdale Schools, The Village of Scarsdale and the Scarsdale Forum.
(From the Scarsdale School District – 12/27/17)
Greetings from the Scarsdale School District:
We recognize that recent correspondence from the Village of Scarsdale suggests the Village may accept prepayment of 2018-2019 school taxes, but that the School District must issue a warrant to allow such prepayment. We have looked into this matter carefully, including consulting with our attorneys, and have determined that the District cannot issue a warrant at this time.
Governor Cuomo's Executive Order does not specifically authorize the pre-payment of such school taxes, nor suspend the operation of State Law governing the school budgetary process. Pursuant to the New York State Education Law, school districts must develop and adopt a school budget, which then is submitted to the voters of the district for approval. Only then can the tax warrant be finalized or a tax levy set. The Executive Order did not modify or suspend any of these Education Law requirements for the adoption of the 2018-2019 school budget.
To be clear, our best information is that we are not in a position to issue a warrant at this time and thus prepayment of school taxes is not an available option
Happy New Year to each of you and your families.
Sincerely,
William J. Natbony
President
Scarsdale Board of Education
Dr. Thomas Hagerman
Superintendent of Schools
(From Scarsdale Village Hall – 12/27/17)
A Special Meeting of the Village of Scarsdale Village Board of Trustees is scheduled for Thursday, December 28, 2017, at 9:30 AM. The meeting will be held in the Trustees Room located on the 2nd Floor in Village Hall. Agenda 1. Prepayment of Village Property Taxes (It is anticipated that a motion will be offered to move into Executive Session to seek opinion of Counsel) 2. Resolution re: Partial Levy and Warrant for 2018/19 Village Taxes
(From the Scarsdale Forum – 12/27-17) Please note that this was written before the School District sent out the note above announcing that they could not issue a warrant for school taxes.
No Prepayment of Westchester County 2018 Property Taxes
This is an update of the press release sent last week with respect to the prepayment of 2018 property taxes. Based upon recent developments, the present options are:
1. The Village of Scarsdale is accepting prepayment of 2018 Village and School property taxes as follows:
Those wishing to make a prepayment should prepare two checks using the amounts paid for Village and School taxes in 2017: one for Village taxes and one for School taxes. Both checks to made payable to the Village of Scarsdale.
However, if the necessary tax warrant cannot be prepared and issued by the Scarsdale School District before the end of 2017, prepayments of School taxes will be returned.
Payments may be made in person at Village Hall from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm through December 29, 2017. The Drop Box at Village Hall will be closed at the end of business December 29, 2017. Payments may also be mailed and will be accepted with a United States postmark, Federal Express or UPS shipment dated on or before December 31, 2017. Postage meter marks are not acceptable.
At this date, prepayments cannot be made using the Village's on-line payment system.
Note: Neither the Village nor the Scarsdale Forum make any representation regarding the deductibility of prepaid taxes which will ultimately be decided by the United States Treasury. Property owners are urged to consult their own tax advisors on such matter.
2. The Village will not be accepting prepayment of Westchester County Taxes:
This updated information is prompted by yesterday's announcement by the County that due to the variety of legal and administrative requirements the County must meet to issue a tax warrant, it is not able to do so prior to the end of 2017. A lohud news report of this development can be accessed here.
The Village has noted that the prepayment of some or all or none of 2018 property taxes is optional. If property owners avail themselves of this option, the necessary adjustments to the payment amounts will be made during the usual property tax billing cycles in 2018.
If you have additional questions, please contact the Village Treasurer's Office at 914.722.1170. The Village Hall tax office will close for the year at 5:00 pm on December 29, 2017.
