Good Morning,

The local kidnapping case continues to grow. Now seven people charged. See some details below

-Brian Grant, managing editor, writer

Local Pulse

💊 Long Island Community Hospital has introduced tablets in patient rooms to enhance the healthcare experience. The devices allow patients to access entertainment, order meals, and communicate with staff more easily. Read more on MSN.

🚔 Suffolk County police raided a massage parlor in Patchogue, charging one person with prostitution. Authorities conducted the operation as part of an ongoing effort to crack down on illicit activities at such establishments. Patch.

🏎️ Suffolk County police arrested multiple individuals in Medford for participating in an illegal speed contest. The crackdown is part of an ongoing effort to curb dangerous street racing in the area. TBR News Media.

🚨 Police are searching for a suspect involved in a robbery at a TD Bank in Patchogue. The individual reportedly handed a note to the teller demanding cash before fleeing the scene. Daily Voice.

🌍 A 4.0-magnitude earthquake in Maine was strong enough to be felt across parts of Long Island. Residents reported mild shaking, though no significant damage was recorded. Greater Long Island.

⚖️ A Long Island woman was sentenced to 2 to 6 years in prison for a deadly hit-and-run that killed a firefighter. Prosecutors say she struck the victim and fled the scene, later trying to cover up the crime. Patch.

Local Pulse

Seven Arrested in Patchogue Missing Teen Case

Suffolk County prosecutors have announced multiple arrests in connection with a case involving a missing 14-year-old from East Patchogue. The teen, who was reported missing for 25 days from December 9 to January 3, has been safely recovered.

Two women, Jacquelyn Comiskey (52) of Bellport and Elizabeth Hunter (34) of Islip, were arraigned Tuesday at First District Court in Central Islip on charges of child trafficking. Both defendants entered not guilty pleas. District Court Judge Evan Tanenbaum set bail at $750,000 cash or $1.5 million bond for each defendant, Newsday reported.

In total, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with this case. The other defendants face various charges including kidnapping and other serious offenses. Two defendants, Francis Buckheit and Daniel Burke, are facing first-degree kidnapping charges, which carry potential life sentences.

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney addressed the case on January 7, stating, "I thank God that this child is now safe, but we're going to certainly look into the circumstances behind how she went missing and the responsible parties."

All defendants except one remain in custody at Suffolk County Jail. Through their attorneys, all defendants have denied the allegations against them. Prosecutors are expected to present indictments at a later date.

This case remains under active investigation by Suffolk County authorities.

Community Highlights

• Connoisseur Media's country station "103.1 The Wolf" is hosting an exclusive private concert, Live from the Wolf Den, featuring rising country stars Josh Ross and Bryce Leatherwood on Friday, Jan. 31, at 89 North Music venue in Patchogue, NY. Fans can win free tickets by listening. Learn more here. 

• Sing Off Series Finale takes place on Thursday, February 6 at 7:00 PM at 89 North Music Venue. Experience an exciting night of music and competition starting at just $23.18. Don't miss this showcase of

• The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) is holding a public hearing in New York on January 22, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Marine Resources Headquarters in Kings Park, to discuss proposed changes to recreational fishing measures. The hearing offers both in-person and virtual participation, with written feedback accepted until February 15, 2025. More Information.

• Krush The Band NY and Mean Machine will perform live at 89 North Music Venue in Patchogue, NY, on February 7, 2025. Don't miss this concert! More Information

• Get ready to sing your heart out at Emo Karaoke Night, where you can belt out all your favorite emo anthems! The event promises a night full of nostalgia, high-energy performances, and plenty of emo vibes. Grab your tickets here. 🎤🖤

• Join the 2025 Installation Dinner of the Bellport Chamber of Commerce on February 12th from 6:30 to 9:30 PM at the Bellport Country Club! This is a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow business professionals, enjoy live music by the Sitting Ducks, and take part in our exciting raffle. Tickets are $50 per person, and you must sign up in advance. Don’t forget to bring your business cards and promotional materials to showcase your events and specials. RSVP now! 🎉

• Patchogue Theatre has announced that Ryan Adams will bring his Heartbreaker 25 World Tour to Long Island, celebrating the 25th anniversary of his iconic debut album. Fans can experience this special performance live at the Patchogue Theatre. Get all the details here. 🎶🔥

• Tilray Brands is bringing the ultimate Game Day experience with nationwide brewery events, featuring their popular Blue Point Brewing Co., 10 Barrel Brewing Co., Redhook Brewery, and Shock Top brands. Fans can enjoy exclusive beer specials, giveaways, and interactive experiences at participating locations across the country. Find out more about the events here! 🍻🏈

Community Highlights

Medford: Where Suburbia Meets Countryside on Long Island

Nestled between bustling commercial corridors and sprawling equestrian landscapes, Medford offers a unique blend of suburban convenience and rural charm. The hamlet, situated in central Long Island, is a community where big-box stores and small businesses coexist with horse farms and nature.

Medford's commercial heartbeat is Route 112, lined with shops, supermarkets, and major retailers like Sam's Club and Target. The Long Island Expressway and the Medford Long Island Rail Road station make commuting easy, reinforcing the area’s suburban appeal. Yet, just east of this retail hub, open fields and horse farms such as Country Farms Equestrian Center and Grand Oak Stables provide a striking contrast. Four Star Ranch even offers horseback riding lessons for riders with disabilities and is home to the nonprofit Mother of Gods Horse Rescue.

Recreation is a strong pillar of the community, with amenities like the Medford Athletic Complex, Eagles Estates Park, and Mill Pond Golf Course. A new pickleball court is on the way, adding to the town’s range of outdoor activities.

Real estate in Medford remains competitive, with home prices on the rise. Over the past year, the median home sale price climbed to $530,000 from $480,000, reflecting a growing demand for this balanced lifestyle of suburban convenience and rural tranquility.

Community leaders emphasize Medford’s ability to harmonize development with family-oriented values. From new library branches to carefully coordinated local events with neighboring Patchogue, Medford continues to be a place where tradition and progress go hand in hand.

Sourced from Newsday

Local Sports

Here’s the recap of 1/26 games.

Boys Basketball
Bayport-Blue Point 57 Southampton 91

Girls Fencing
Newfield/MP 16 Brentwood/Bay Shore 11

Thanks for checking in for your local sports update! Catch you next time for more scores and highlights.

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