New York State Police Engage in Standoff with Central NY Man Over Criminal Mischief
On September 9, 2024, New York State Troopers responded to a tense standoff in Central New York following a Criminal Mischief complaint. Troopers from the North Syracuse barracks were called to 8263 Trevi Lane around 4:14 p.m. after 68-year-old Thomas P. Kalenak of Clay, New York, allegedly used a 4 x 10 board to damage a neighbor’s vehicle.
Confrontation and Barricade
Upon arrival, Kalenak confronted the patrol officers with a knife, threatening them before retreating back into his home. The situation escalated as Kalenak barricaded himself inside his residence from around 4 p.m. until approximately 11:06 p.m. During this time, a Crisis Negotiator and members of the Special Operations Response Team worked to persuade him to surrender.
Resolution and Legal Actions
Kalenak eventually emerged from his home voluntarily and surrendered to the Troopers. He was taken into custody, and a Criminal Search Warrant was executed at his residence. Additionally, a Temporary Extreme Risk Protection Order was filed under the state’s Red Flag Law.
Kalenak was processed at SP North Syracuse and transported to Onondaga County Justice Center, where he awaits Centralized Arraignment.
New York’s Most Common Crimes Revealed
1. Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property
According to Gruber Law Offices, the most common crime in New York State is the destruction, damage, or vandalism of property, with 31,350 reported incidents. This crime involves deliberate damage to physical property, which may result in varying charges depending on the severity.
2. Simple Assault
Simple assault ranks as the second most common crime, with 28,996 reported cases. This involves physical attacks that do not involve weapons and do not cause serious harm. Intimidation can also fall under this category and is often charged as a misdemeanor.
3. Larceny
Larceny, or theft of personal property, is the third most common crime, with 26,773 reported incidents. Larceny is a specific type of theft and can be charged as a felony.
4. Shoplifting
With 10,837 reported cases, shoplifting is the fourth most common crime in New York State. While it falls under the broader category of larceny, the high incidence rate has warranted its own classification.
5. Theft from Building
Theft from buildings is the fifth most common crime, with 9,324 reports. This crime involves stealing property from a building by someone who was lawfully present, differing from burglary which involves breaking and entering.
Gruber Law Offices used recent statistics from the United States Bureau of Justice to compile these findings, highlighting the prevalent issues affecting the state.
Also Read: New York Tops List as Best State for Teen Drivers in 2024
