Millerton Police Dept. rebuilds after fire; new cruisers on the way

MILLERTON — After receiving substantial state grant funding in July 2024 and beginning to roll out new equipment that fall, the Millerton Police Department suffered a setback when the February fire at the Village Water and Highway Department building destroyed much of its newly acquired gear — including patrol vehicles outfitted with cutting-edge technology.

Thanks to full-value insurance coverage and swift support from the Town of Pine Plains — which loaned the department a vehicle — Millerton officers were able to remain active in the community. Millerton Police Chief Joseph Olenik said two custom-built, four-wheel-drive Ford Interceptor cruisers are now in production and are expected to arrive by the end of the summer.

“We’re incredibly thankful to Pine Plains for stepping up and offering us a patrol vehicle while we wait for replacements,” Chief Olenik said.

The fire came shortly after the department was awarded multiple grants through New York’s Division of Criminal Justice Services totaling more than $300,000. The funding has allowed the department to upgrade everything from safety gear to communications systems. According to Olenik, equipment destroyed in the fire will be fully replaced by either insurance or the original vendors.

“We’re really lucky to have Chief Olenik,” said Mayor Jenn Najdek. “He runs the department efficiently and is constantly pursuing grant opportunities to improve equipment and public safety.”

A first grant of about $82,000 funded essentials like TASERs, body and vehicle cameras, license plate readers and tri-band two-way radios — which will support the county’s upcoming communications system upgrade.

A second grant totaling $220,000 paid for high-tech additions including thermal imaging binoculars that can detect individuals and stream live images to officers’ smartphones. The department also used the funding to replace decade-old desktop computers, install new servers for improved data security and upgrade surveillance with an alarm system and indoor-outdoor camera coverage at the station.

Additional upgrades include an electronic fingerprinting system, a 55-inch monitor for virtual meetings and surveillance review, enhanced firearms optics and lighting and a custom-built prisoner bench that saved thousands by being fabricated locally.

Olenik also highlighted the department’s transition to a new chemical deterrent, replacing traditional pepper spray with a safer, faster-cleaning agent that is more effective.

“These grants have been vital to equipping our officers with top-tier technology while protecting taxpayers from additional costs,” Olenik said. “We’ve been very strategic in how we allocate resources.”

The department is now awaiting a decision on a $45,000 community policing grant that would fund outreach efforts, including “non-shift” assignments for the department’s seven officers at community events, school visits, and other public engagements. The grant would also cover the cost of giveaway items for local children. Chief Olenik expects to hear back within the next month or two.