$600K COVID Fraud | Dog's 1,130 Days | Ice Attack | Prostitution Ring

On the weekend, we present a week in review of the top stories and headlines from all across New York. Here's a roundup of some of the most-read stories, from the worst situations imaginable to most wonderful, across the state. You can also find your local Patch and catch up on those stories by clicking here.

3 Indicted In COVID Relief Fraud Totaling $600K: Feds

Charges include conspiracy to defraud the federal government and wire fraud, prosecutors said.

Woman Assaults Crossing Guard With Ice: Police

The woman also threatened to kill the arresting officers, police said.

After 1,130 Days In Shelters, Sweet Pup Violet Finds Forever Family.

A family who just lost their dog of 14 years asked for a sign — and saw the Patch post about Violet. "She brought back smiles to our home."

Mass Deportation Plan Sparks School District's Vow To Support Kids

Legal counsel is advising officials on response to threats, including the "potential of ICE officers appearing at our schools' doorsteps."

Isabella Rosselini Gets Oscar Nomination For 'Conclave'

In an Instagram post, she wished her parents, Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini, could celebrate with her, and remembered David Lynch.

School Bus Driver Feted For 'Extraordinary Skill' In Avoiding Crash On Snowy Roadway

Her actions are "a powerful reminder of the responsibility and care" transportation staff carry every single day, school supe says.

Iconic Duck Farm Hit With Avian Bird Flu

The duck farm, the last of its kind, houses more than 100,000 birds and is now under quarantine, Suffolk County Health officials say.

Video Of Man Making Child Step On LEGOS Leads To Arrest: Police

The man was arrested, charged, and released with a court date, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Childhood Home Of Actress Hayden Panettiere Hits The Market For $4M

You can own the 3,500-square-foot, 4-bed, 4-bath, turnkey home, often referred to as the "Hollywood of the Hudson."

Blood Emergency As New York Supply Crippled' After Nearly 30% Drop In Donations: NYBC

There were 6,500 fewer donations over the holidays, New York Blood Center says.

Judge Sides With County In Transgender Athlete Bans

"I think we set the tone for the rest of the nation," said County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

2 Raccoons At Estate Test Positive For Canine Distemper Virus: Authorities

In December, park service staff saw the two raccoons behaving uncharacteristically and also found dead raccoons, officials say.

NY Sues Trump Over Ending Birthright Citizenship

State leaders say the president's executive order violates the constitutional rights of children born in the United States in a new lawsuit.

Man Who Sexually Abused Girlfriend's Daughter Gets 25 Years: DA

A 60-year-old man was sentenced for sexually abusing his girlfriend's young daughter for 5 years, the DA says.

16 Jan. 6 Defendants From LI Pardoned In Trump’s First Official Act

Hour after beginning his second term, President Donald Trump pardoned those who participated in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol.

Spouses Ran Sophisticated Prostitution Ring

The two used their cellphones to set performance goals for the women who worked in their massage parlors, prosecutors said.

Centenarian Celebrated By Town Officials

"I love to eat, and once in a while a little drink, when I feel good. That's about it and I love to dance."- Rosie Romano

Chicken Wing Challenge For Charity Coming

Proceeds benefit Camp Good Mourning!, a charity that provides free bereavement camps to children coping with the death of a parent/sibling.

Woman, 95, Who Still Actively Works Out Shares Her Secrets

The woman continues to work out with a trainer half her age. "When Jessie comes in, I've got to be ready to bring it," the trainer said.

1 LI Eatery Named 2025 James Beard Semifinalists

See who won the nod.

Residents Evacuated From House Fire: Officials

No injuries were reported, officials say.

3rd Man Charged In Connection With Teen's Disappearance

Defense attorney says he doesn't believe his client was involved in kidnapping.

20 Helped After 3 Fire Disasters: American Red Cross

The blazes affected five households, the organization says.

Bicyclist Killed On Service Road Has Been Identified: Police

The 51-year-old victim struck a tractor trailer, police said.

'A Friend To All': Funeral Set For Beloved Firefighter

"Chief Allen was a friend to all, especially on the fireground. He will be sorely missed. Rest easy, Chief." - Fire Department.

Animal Groups Seek Groundhog Day Retirement For Malverne Mel

PETA and Humane Long Island sent a letter to the Malverne mayor encouraging a change on Feb. 2.

3rd Sentencing Date For Ex-Scout Leader Charged With Child Porn: DOJ

The man, who also waged an unsuccessful campaign for supervisor, is now slated to be sentenced in March, according to court documents.

Mulcahy's Hosts 20th Annual Tribute For Man Killed Serving In Iraq

More than 1,000 people are expected for the Feb. 1 fundraiser.

20 Years To Life Sentence Handed Down In Slaying Of Father of Four

The stepmother of Alex Smith says her family's hearts will be "broken forever," but he will "live on in his children" and "memories."

Man Gets 6-Mos. In Prison For Breeding Pitbulls To Fight: DA

He pleaded guilty in September to one count of prohibition of animal fighting, prosecutors said.

Town Says Police Won't Detain Anyone Over Immigration Status

"Those enforcement efforts remain federal agency functions." — Supervisor.