From the Office of the Chief of Police

Stephen V. Janik-Chief

November 17, 2020

Dear Residents of the Town of Glenville,
Due to growing anxiety, frustration and questions related to Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order limiting
the number of guests you can have in your private residence, I feel it is necessary to address the issue as
it pertains to the policy of our department and the legitimacy of the order itself. The Glenville Police
Department will not enforce this order based on the discretion we have as an agency. This decision has
been made after serious consideration to the following factors:
1. The Glenville Police Department does not have the resources to proactively investigate the
number of guests you have in your private residence.
2. There are several questions and concerns about the order and how it may violate the
constitutional protections afforded to you as citizens.
3. The Glenville Police Department has no authority to enter a private residence to take a “head-
count” of the guests without a warrant.
4. The Executive Order has never been accompanied with information on enforcement procedures.
The Executive Orders issued by the governor are usually intended for businesses and events that are
under the regulatory authority of the NYS Liquor Authority and the NYS and local Health Departments.
These agencies have the authority to close, sanction or fine businesses and events that are licensed in this
state, not private homes and homeowners.
Furthermore, how would the enforcement of an Executive Order stop a gathering at the dinner table on
Thanksgiving from happening, or continuing after the homeowner is cited? The answer is, it will not.
Recent legislation, approved by the governor, has all but completely taken the fear of committing a crime
away. Bail reform and the rules governing discovery have proven to be a complete disaster. If there were
guidelines on the enforcement of this Executive Order, it would most likely result in a homeowner
receiving an appearance ticket. A ticket to respond to a local criminal court several months from now.
I believe that the residents in this community have respect for themselves, their neighbors and especially
their family members. I believe residents will make the right choices based on the CDC guidelines and
the knowledge of their family make-up. The number of friends and family you have in your private home
is your decision; and if it is done safely, should never be regulated by any government agency.
The members of the Glenville Police Department wish you and your families a safe, healthy and Happy
Thanksgiving!