Rosendale Police Department

06/01/2026

This weekend, I was provided with a video that was posted on social media depicting an interaction between a member of our department and a member of the public. The video contains extensive profanity and abusive language directed toward the officer. Because of the nature of the language used, I carefully considered whether it was appropriate to share the video.

Ultimately, I decided to do so because it highlights something far more important than the conduct of the individual recording it. The video demonstrates the professionalism, restraint, and composure displayed by our officer throughout the encounter.

Law enforcement officers are often called upon to serve the public under difficult and challenging circumstances. They routinely encounter individuals who are angry, frustrated, or openly hostile. Despite this, our officers are expected to remain calm, professional, and respectful, and this video serves as an excellent example of the training, character, and dedication that our personnel bring to their duties every day.

I am exceptionally proud of this officer and of all the members of our agency, who continue to serve our community with integrity and professionalism, even when faced with disrespectful and unacceptable behavior. Their commitment to treating every person with dignity and respect reflects the values of this department and the community we serve.

I would like to publicly recognize this officer for his outstanding professionalism and for representing this department in a manner that brings credit to both himself and our organization.

-Chief Schaffrick

***Warning Language***
Not suitable for the work environment or around children.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DY9vV32ybIz/

05/30/2026

Please be advised that Creek Locks Road between Deer Haven and Winchell Lane is going to be closed for an extended period of time, due to trees and wires down in the area.

05/27/2026

The Town of Rosendale Highway Department has advised that Mountain Road from 233 Mountain Rd. to Walnut Lane will be closed until approximately 2:30 today. Please seek alternate routes.

05/26/2026

It was nice to see such a large turnout for the annual Memorial Day parade. The weather held off and the Rosendale - Tillson American Legion Post 1219 delivered a very nice parade and fitting tribute to the fallen.

05/22/2026

May we take this weekend, to honor the brave men and women who served and never made it home.

Their sacrifice provided us with the freedoms that we often take for granted. Freedom that is built on their courage, duty, and selflessness. Today is more than the start of a long weekend; it is the lead up to a day of remembrance for those who gave everything.

May we never forget the fallen, the families who carry their loss, and the legacy of service they leave behind.

We should remember them. We should honor them. We should teach the next generation about them, for then they are not forgotten.

05/09/2026

This week, the Town of Rosendale Police attended the 2026 Police Chiefs Association of Ulster County Line of Duty Death Ceremony at Woodcrest Bruderhof in Rifton, held in observance of National Police Week. The annual ceremony honors the law enforcement officers from our community who have given their lives in service, with their names respectfully read aloud in remembrance.

We were honored to stand alongside the family of Correction Officer Joseph Murray, who will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., in recognition of his 33 years of dedicated service. Officer Murray served on the Critical Incident Stress Management Team in New York City following the events of September 11, 2001. His passing was determined to be related to illnesses resulting from that assignment.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Police Chiefs Association of Ulster County, the Woodcrest Community, and all who contributed to organizing this meaningful and solemn tribute.

05/06/2026

The Town of Rosendale Police Department responded to a reported serious personal injury motor vehicle accident involving a 2005 Peterbilt dump truck that overturned onto another vehicle.

Following an on-scene investigation, it was determined that the dump truck, operated by James Reynolds, was traveling southbound on Binnewater Road when it swerved to the right after the vehicle in front of it stopped at a stop sign. The truck traveled down a small embankment, struck a fire hydrant, and entered the eastbound lane of State Route 213. While attempting to return to its proper lane, the truck was loaded with soil and overturned onto a vehicle occupied by three individuals.

The front and rear passengers of the impacted vehicle were transported by Marbletown First Aid and Kingston Fire Department Medic 2 to Health Alliance Hospital with minor injuries. The driver was extricated from the vehicle and transported via helicopter to Westchester Medical Center, where they were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Further investigation revealed that Mr. Reynolds did not possess a valid New York State driver’s license. His driving privileges were suspended in both New York and Connecticut, and he does not hold a commercial driver’s license.

Mr. Reynolds has been charged with:
• Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the Second Degree (Misdemeanor)
• Operating Out of Class (Violation)
• Speed Not Reasonable and Prudent (Violation)
• Following Too Closely (Violation)

He is scheduled to appear in the Town of Rosendale Court at a later date. Additional charges are pending and the investigation remains open.

The Town of Rosendale Police Department was assisted at the scene by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, Rosendale Fire Department, Tillson Fire Department, Bloomington Fire Department, Kingston Fire Department, Cottekill Fire Department, High Falls Fire Department, Ulster County Fire Coordinator, Marbletown First Aid, Empress Ambulance, Town of Esopus Ambulance, Kerhonkson/Accord Rescue, Hatzalah Ambulance, Life Net, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Emergency Spill Response Team.

05/05/2026

Traffic Advisory – Serious Personal Injury Accident about 5:00 p.m. this date.

The Rosendale Police Department is currently on the scene of a serious personal injury motor vehicle accident on State Route 213 near the intersection of Binnewater Road.

At this time, the surrounding roadways have been closed to allow emergency crews to safely operate.

Based on a preliminary investigation, a loaded tri-axle dump truck lost control and overturned onto a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction.

There were three occupants in the vehicle who required extrication. One patient has been transported via medical helicopter to Westchester Medical Center. The remaining two patients have been transported by ambulance to Health Alliance in Kingston.

This incident remains under active investigation. The roadway is expected to reopen to traffic at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes while emergency operations continue.

04/28/2026

The Rosendale Police Department reports the arrest of Shannon Geist, age 48, of New Paltz, NY 12561.

Officers responded to a reported hit and run property damage accident and upon an investigation conducted, found Ms. Geist to be operating with a drivers license that had been permanently revoked, a suspended registration, and no insurance.

She was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the first degree; Operating with a suspended registration; Operating with no insurance; Leaving the scene of a property damage accident; Criminal Possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree.

Ms. Geist is scheduled to return to the Town of Rosendale Court at a latter date.

04/27/2026

We are proud to share that Officer Caelin Fagerstrom has successfully graduated from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services - Basic Special Weapons and Tactics School.

This intensive program focuses on critical decision making, de-escalation, teamwork, and the safe resolution of high-risk situations. The training emphasizes protecting life, reducing harm, and ensuring that officers are equipped to respond thoughtfully and responsibly in complex circumstances.

Officer Fagerstrom’s commitment to professional development reflects our agency’s ongoing investment in training that prioritizes safety, accountability, and the well-being of both our community and our officers. The skills and perspective he brings back will help strengthen our ability to serve with care, precision, and respect.

Please join us in congratulating Officer Fagerstrom on this significant achievement!

Ulster County Sheriff’s Office Announces Basic SWAT Operator Course Graduation

Sheriff Juan Figueroa is pleased to announce the successful completion and graduation of the Basic SWAT Operator Course, hosted by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office. The graduation was held on April 24, 2026. This intensive training program brought together law enforcement personnel from across the region, further strengthening interagency cooperation and tactical readiness.

A total of thirteen agencies were represented in this course, including the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office, Albany County Sheriff’s Office, City of Kingston Police Department, Town of Ulster Police Department, Town of Lloyd Police Department, Town of Rosendale Police Department, Saugerties Police, Colonie Police Department, Town of Newburgh Police Department, City of Newburgh Police Department, City of Poughkeepsie Police Department, and Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department.

Throughout the course, participants received comprehensive instruction in special weapons and tactics, focusing on critical skills necessary for high-risk operations. The program emphasized safety, precision, decision making, and coordination, ensuring that graduates are well prepared to respond to complex and dangerous incidents that exceed the capabilities of traditional patrol and investigative units.

“This training reflects our continued commitment to providing our personnel and partner agencies with the highest level of training,” said the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office. “The collaboration between agencies not only enhances tactical capabilities but also strengthens the partnerships that are critical during real world operations.”

The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office extends its congratulations to all graduates for their dedication, professionalism, and successful completion of this demanding course.