Hinchey Delivers $50,000 Grant to Athens Police Department for Police Responder Vehicle

November 10, 2023

Pictured: Senator Michelle Hinchey at the Athens Community Center alongside Athens Village Mayor Amy Serrago, Athens Police Sergeant Edward J Tercasio, Jr., Sergeant Jeffrey Russo, and Greene County Legislator Ed Bloomer (District 3).

ATHENS, NY – Senator Michelle Hinchey today announced that she has delivered a $50,000 state grant to the Athens Police Department to fund the purchase of a 2023 Ford F150 Police Responder. The new police responder has replaced a retired 2009 Ford Crown Victoria sedan, allowing the officers greater mobility to serve the community, including during severe weather, which used to hinder their ability to navigate the village when the old vehicle was in use.

Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “I’m proud to deliver funding to ensure members of the Village of Athens Police Department have an updated and reliable police responder to swiftly and safely respond to calls in the community. Our officers willingly place themselves in harm's way to protect and serve, and it’s a privilege to be able to help equip them with the resources to do that work.”

Village of Athens Mayor Amy Serrago said, “I couldn’t be more grateful to Senator Hinchey for her help in securing the funds to purchase the Village of Athens’ new police vehicle. This vehicle will replace a 2009 Ford Crown Victoria that served the village well but was at the end of its useful life and no longer safe for our officers to drive. The safety of our residents and employees is of the utmost importance to me and the Village Board of Trustees. We so appreciate that Senator Hinchey shares our commitment to protecting the men and women who protect us. We could not have acquired this vehicle without her!”

Village of Athens Police Chief Roger Masse said, “We are very grateful for the support Senator Hinchey and her staff provide our community. Without her assistance, we would have to delay replacing an aging vehicle which is well overdue for replacement. This new vehicle will provide us with a reliable vehicle that not only offers safety for our officers but ensures officers are able to respond to emergencies and routine calls for service with the proper equipment. This vehicle has the versatility to do so in inclement weather and tackle the steep inclines on some of our streets. Otherwise, officers would have to take alternate routes, which could cause delays in an emergency situation. We will also be able to transport various equipment which is not suited to be transported in a regular sedan.”