Branden has been a journalist for more than 15 years, working in newsrooms around Central New York, Western New York and the Capital District, where he covered urban crime and political news for Albany's WRGB. During his career, he's served as the New York State Television Chair for the National Press Photographers Association (TVQCC) and has won numerous awards for his video journalism. Prior to joining the WIBX Newsroom, Branden worked with Governor David Paterson's 2010 campaign for Governor. A Mohawk Valley native, Branden enjoys covering Utica politics and public safety issues. You can hear him Saturday mornings from 6-9 on WIBX 950AM.
Branden Block
Utica Police Arrest Speeding Sauquoit Man on Weapon Charge
Utica, NY (WIBX) - According to Utica Police, a 24-year old Sauquoit man was arrested over the weekend for carrying a weapon.
Utica Police say the man, James Hanretty, was seen by police driving on Genesee Street at a high rate of speed, crossing the double-yellow line and passing other cars...
Westernville Man Arrested for Identity Theft
New Hartford, NY (WIBX) - After a 3-month investigation, New Hartford Police have arrested a Westernville man for Identity Theft.
Investigators believe this past September, 36-year old Jonathan Bronson bought a John Deere tractor from Cazenovia Equipment on credit, the only problem - the "credit" belonged to someone else...
Texas Fugitive Captured in Oneida County After Traffic Stop
Oriskany, NY (WIBX) - The Oneida County Sheriff's Road Patrol nabbed a fugitive from justice last night.
According to the department, 32-year old Luis Guzman was pulled over for speeding on Route 69 in the Village of Oriskany, that's when deputies discovered that Guzman was wanted in Texas on a warrant for money laundering, which is a felony under Texas law...
Nat’l Grid: Lower Bills Expected for Upstate NY Customers
Albany, NY (WIBX) - The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) has ordered National Grid to lower the price they charge for electricity delivery, effective next month.
According to the power provider, the typical residential customer bill will be 6% lower overall, assuming equal usage. Sma...
Herkimer County Man Arrested For Massive Marijuana Grow Operation
Frankfort, NY (WIBX) - On December 14, 2011 the Drug Enforcement Agency, along with the New York State Police, executed a federal search warrant at 162 McIntyre Road, Frankfort, New York.
According to authorities, investigators discovered more than 3,200 marijuana plants growing in a barn located on the property...
Oneida Teen Caught With Almost 1/2 Pound of Pot
Oneida, NY (WIBX) - State Police in Oneida busted a 17-year old for pot possession.
According to authorities, Derek Damuth was arrested at his residence earlier this week after New York State Troopers went to his home to question the teen about a different investigation...
NJ Fugitive Arrested After Traffic Stop
Boonville, NY (WIBX) - The Oneida County Sheriff's road patrol took another wanted man off the streets. According to the Oneida County Sheriff, deputies pulled over 26-year old Wilson Canela for speeding when they discovered he was a fugitive from justice...
Woman Arrives at Turning Stone Casino in Stolen Rental Car
Verona, NY (WIBX) - A Rochester woman was arrested and sent to the Oneida County lock-up for allegedly driving around a stolen rental car.
According to the Sheriff's Department, 31-year old Tanglar Townsend rented the car from a Rochester area Budget Rent A Car in August, when the rental wasn't returned at the end of the term, the vehicle was reported stolen...
Memorial Mass for St. E’s Sister Rose Vincent Gleason
Syracuse, NY (WIBX) - On Wednesday, November 23, Sister Rose Vincent Gleason, OSF, passed away peacefully at Jolenta Convent, Syracuse.
Sister Rose Vincent Gleason ministered for almost 50 years at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica. Sis...
FEMA Deadline Nears for Storm Aid
Washington, D.C. (WIBX) - New Yorkers affected by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee have only a few days left to register with FEMA. Thursday, December 15, 2011 is the registration deadline for those applying for federal aid.
December 15 is also the deadline to complete and return an SBA low-interest disaster loan application...