City of Watervliet (New York) Police Chief Joseph Centanni Speaks Out Against Bail Reform After Serial Drunk Driver is Released on Bail Following his 8th DWI Arrest
The purpose of this news release is to encourage the community to use caution if they observe Brandon L. McKinley of Watervliet, NY operating a motor vehicle. This information is based on a summary of McKinley’s extensive arrest record which includes seven DWIs since 2008. “This offender is a serial
Convicted Felon Arrested After Failing to Appear for Sentencing
On August 16, 2022, at approximately 1:27 a.m., Watervliet police officers conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of 19th Street and Second Avenue after observing violations of the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law. The passenger, Zaquon C. Woody, initially provided officers with a false name but due to exceptional teamwork, Woody was identified
Level 3 Sex Offender Arrested Again Following Sexual Assault Investigation
On August 4, 2022, the Watervliet Police Department investigated an alleged sexual assault. At the conclusion of the investigation it was determined that the victim, an adult male with autism, was approached at a bus stop by Jamal Ali, who invited him to his apartment to drink alcoholic beverages and view a movie. Shortly after they arrived at Ali’s Third Avenue residence, he sexually assaulted the victim. Ali is a Level 3 sex offender who has a violent criminal history. He has been arrested/convicted for various other offenses dating back to 1978. Specifically, in 1984, he was convicted in Buffalo, NY for the forcible
Handgun Recovered Following Shots Fired Call
On July 9, 2022, at approximately 12:30 p.m., the Watervliet Police Department responded to the 1900 block of Sixth Avenue to investigate a complaint of shots fired. Through investigation, it was discovered that Keiji N. Mason Flowers discharged several rounds from a handgun while in her back yard. The Watervliet
Man Arrested and Charged With 22 Counts of Overriding, Torturing and Injuring Animals
On July 6, 2022, at approximately 12 p.m., the Watervliet Police Department responded to 540 3rd Ave. to investigate an animal complaint. Upon arrival, officers interviewed the tenant, Paul S. Lacy, who provided several inconsistent answers regarding the condition and safety of the animals in his residence. In addition, officers
18-year-old Parolee Charged with Loaded Handgun
On June 27, 2022, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Watervliet police officers conducted a motor vehicle stop on Fifth Avenue after observing violations of the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law. It was discovered that the driver, Quazier J. Wertz, was illegally operating the vehicle. Inside Wertz’s vehicle, officers located a loaded, illegally-possessed 9mm handgun
The Watervliet Police Department Announces the Introduction of a Body Worn Camera (BWC) Program
The Watervliet Police Department is excited to announce the implementation of a Body Worn Camera (BWC) Program. Body worn cameras offer the ability to view police activity from a unique perspective which aids in identifying many training, recognition and feedback opportunities. In addition, they increase transparency, accountability and trust which
17-year-old Parolee Charged with Loaded Handgun
On June 21, 2022 at approximately 6:50 p.m., Watervliet police officers responded to the 1500 block of Sixth Avenue with members of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to conduct an inquiry of a juvenile parolee who was alleged to be in possession of a firearm.
Watervliet Police Department Recovers Four ‘Ghost Guns’ Which are Fast Becoming an Increased Threat to Many Communities.
On April 16, 2022, the Watervliet Police Department investigated the alleged unlawful possession of a firearm by a resident of 747 Broadway. At the conclusion of a search warrant executed by the Watervliet Police Department, in conjunction with the Colonie Police Department’s Special Services Team, four illegally possessed, untraceable 9mm