In a troubling incident that has raised concerns about accountability and the role of law enforcement, Sheldon Hazelwood, a resident of Richmondville, shared his experience of intimidation and subsequent arrest involving the Head of the Sheriff Security Service and two other community members Via Social Media Post.
Hazelwood recounted how he and his neighbors organized themselves to improve their community after losing faith in the former Home Owner’s Association (HOA) president, whose leadership was marked by a lack of transparency. Frustrated by the president’s refusal to account for collected fees, residents ceased payments, prompting him to withdraw his security service from the area.
On June 18, 2025, tensions escalated when the former HOA president, referred to by Hazelwood as “the bully,” confronted two volunteers, Mr. and Mrs. Chunnilal, who were distributing notices to residents. Accompanied by armed security personnel, he allegedly intimidated the couple, prompting them to seek refuge in Hazelwood’s home.
When Hazelwood intervened, the situation intensified. The former HOA president filmed Hazelwood, accusing him of verbal abuse, leading to police involvement. According to Hazelwood, officers informed them that they had received ‘instructions’ to arrest him and Mr. Chunnilal. While Mrs. Chunnilal remained on a bench, the two men were taken into custody without formal charges, despite the intervention of two attorneys.
Hazelwood expressed his disillusionment with the police, stating, “What kind of society do we want when those sworn to protect us become facilitators of bullying?” He highlighted the disturbing reality that citizens should be able to rely on law enforcement for protection, not intimidation.
This incident raises questions about the dynamics within communities and the responsibilities of those in positions of authority. As residents of Richmondville seek to create a better living environment, they are left grappling with the implications of their experiences and the role of law enforcement in community matters.
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