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Calls For Extension As CDPAP Plan Fast Tracked Raising Concerns
AARP NY issues letter to Gov. Hochul expressing concern over rapid implementation
March 20, 2025
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With less than two weeks remaining before New York plans to reduce the number of fiscal intermediaries managing payments under the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) from about 600 to just one, opposition to the deadline is intensifying.

Albany, NY -- The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York State is on the brink of a significant forced transformation that has sparked widespread concern among consumers, caregivers, and advocacy groups. The state's plan to transition to a single fiscal intermediary (FI) by April 1, 2025, has led to fears of potential disruptions in care for thousands of New Yorkers who rely on this vital program.

 

As Gov. Hochul's deadline for privatized care approaches, protests persist across New York State, with many expressing concerns about the program's swift rollout and calling for a delay.

 

CDPAP is a Medicaid program that allows chronically ill or physically disabled individuals to hire and direct their own caregivers, often family members or friends, to assist with daily activities and medical needs. This model offers recipients greater autonomy and personalized care, enabling many to remain in their homes rather than entering institutional settings. Historically, the administrative functions of CDPAP have been managed by numerous fiscal intermediaries—organizations responsible for handling tasks such as payroll and compliance. Over time, the number of these intermediaries swelled to over 600, leading to concerns about inefficiencies and escalating costs. In response, Governor Kathy Hochul's administration announced plans to streamline the program by appointing a single FI, Public Partnerships LLC (PPL), to oversee all administrative duties. 

On March 17, 2025, AARP New York issued a letter to Governor Hochul expressing deep concern over the rapid implementation timeline of the single FI model. The letter highlighted alarming statistics: out of 280,000 consumers and approximately 425,000 personal assistants (PAs) involved in CDPAP at the end of 2024, only 89,769 consumers had completed the registration process with PPL as of March 10, 2025. Moreover, only 112,500 PAs had initiated or completed their registration. AARP emphasized that incomplete enrollments could lead to consumers losing essential home care services and PAs not receiving payment for their work. The organization urged the governor to delay the March 28 registration deadline to prevent potential care disruptions. 

 

A letter sent to Gov. Hochul by Beth Finkel, AARP NY State Director, expressing concerns over rapid implementation of new CDPAP program.

 

The concerns raised by AARP are echoed by various stakeholders. State Senator Leroy Comrie is rallying fellow lawmakers to petition Governor Hochul for a postponement of the transition deadline, aiming to ensure that all program users and their workers are adequately registered with PPL before the changeover. Similarly, Medicaid Matters New York, an advocacy group, has repeatedly called for a delay, citing the rushed nature of the transition and the potential for significant care disruptions if consumers and workers are not properly enrolled. 

The New York State Department of Health (DOH) has acknowledged the challenges associated with the transition. On March 17, 2025, the DOH provided an update on the progress of the CDPAP transition, emphasizing efforts to ensure a smooth changeover and continuous access to care for consumers. Previously, on March 11, 2025, the DOH issued cease and desist letters to certain fiscal intermediaries and licensed home care service agencies, underscoring the state's commitment to enforcing the transition plan. 

 

New York State Police escorted a protester out, one of many arrested last week while voicing concerns about their own wellbeing as the state's home care transition deadline approaches.

 

With the April 1 deadline rapidly approaching, the future of CDPAP hangs in the balance. The state's initiative aims to streamline administrative processes and control costs within the program. However, the expedited timeline and current enrollment shortfalls pose significant risks to the continuity of care for thousands of New Yorkers. Advocacy groups, legislators, and consumers are urging the administration to reconsider the implementation schedule to ensure that the transition does not inadvertently harm those it intends to serve. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the state will adjust its plans to address these pressing concerns or proceed as scheduled, potentially impacting the lives of many vulnerable individuals.

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NYSDOT TRACTOR STRUCK

A New York State DOT tractor was struck on interstate 81 in Jefferson County after the driver passed work area signs at an unsafe speed and was not paying attention when the driver in front of him Lane corrected causing him to spin out and strike the dot tractor no serious injuries were reported

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Kathy Hochul had disabled New Yorkers ARRESTED after protest for patient rights

Kathy Hochul had disabled New Yorkers ARRESTED after she caused them to lose their home healthcare Medicaid program. Hochul is dismantling the home healthcare CDPAP program which will cause tens of thousands of disabled and elderly New Yorkers to lose their benefits, healthcare aides, and many forced to move to assisted living facilities.

This protest is trying to stop her bill before it goes into effect April 1st.

00:00:43
Former Mayor Under Scrutiny For Asking For Ride

In December 2024, a video surfaced showing former Watertown Mayor Jeffrey Smith receiving a ride home in a police patrol car after a night of holiday drinking. The incident has sparked controversy, with City Councilman Cliff Olney accusing Smith of receiving "preferential treatment" from the Watertown Police Department.

The video, which has circulated widely on social media this week, depicts Smith interacting with officers before being escorted into the patrol car. Councilman Olney contends that such actions undermine public trust and suggest a double standard in law enforcement practices.

In response, Smith has downplayed the incident, stating, "It's not a big deal, I drive on a suspended registration too!" This remark has further fueled the debate, with critics arguing that it reflects a dismissive attitude toward legal obligations and public safety.

The Watertown Police Department has yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter. As discussions continue, the incident ...

00:06:19
Watertown City Police Arrests – July 8–16, 2025

Watertown City Police Arrests – July 8–16, 2025

Cathleen Irene Howard (55) – Arrested July 12 at Kinney Drugs, Coffeen St., for Petit Larceny after allegedly stealing \$16.24 worth of merchandise. Released with an appearance ticket for July 28.

Erica Marie Hallisey (45) – Arrested July 14 at First Baptist Church, State St., for Unlawful Possession of Noxious Matter after allegedly inhaling “Dust Off” in public and rendering herself unconscious. Released with an appearance ticket for July 28.

Thomas Henry Folsom (40) – Arrested July 12 at Franklin St. for Disorderly Conduct: Obstructing Traffic (PL 240.20) after allegedly blocking traffic and yelling at motorists. Released with an appearance ticket for July 31.

Megan Elizabeth Dryden (40) – Arrested July 8 at Mo's Diner, Factory St., for Theft of Services after allegedly failing to pay \$32.36 for food. Released with an appearance ticket for July 28.

Paul John Avallone (67) – Arrested July 15 on Polk St. for Failure to Register Social ...

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Watertown Police Department Arrests July 8, 2025

Watertown Police Department Arrests July 8, 2025

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Name: Ricky Hans Pierce, 56
Address: 522 Emerson St, Watertown, NY
Charges:
Criminal Mischief in the 3rd Degree (Class E Felony)** – On May 29 at approximately 1:30 a.m., Pierce allegedly damaged property valued at \$1,379.75 at Aminomax LLC, 810 Waterman Dr, including forced entry into bait boxes, a mailbox, and a laboratory drop box.
Criminal Mischief in the 4th Degree (Class A Misdemeanor)
Attempted Criminal Trespass 2nd Degree (Class B Misdemeanor) – On July 7 at approximately 9:26 p.m., officers responded to a residence at 538 Emerson St for a reported disturbance. Pierce allegedly attempted to break into a residence by shattering a window, screen, and blinds after being told not to enter.


Name: Charles William Howard Jr., 57
Address: 140 N Meadow St, Apt 3, Watertown, NY
Charge:
Menacing in the 3rd Degree (Class B Misdemeanor) – On July 5 at approximately 10:38 p.m., officers were called to the defendant’s residence for a ...

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Police Blotter - Jefferson County 6/4/25

Watertown City Police Department – Daily Arrest Log
Date: June 4, 2025

Gary Amos Collins, 47, of 111 N Rutland St, Watertown, NY, was arrested at 8:09 a.m. on June 3, 2025, and charged with Criminal Contempt 2nd Degree, a class A misdemeanor. Collins allegedly violated a stay-away order of protection issued by Jefferson County Family Court by entering the residence of the protected party. He was processed and held for arraignment in Watertown City Court.


Luke Allen Bohn, 35, of 896 S Massey St, Watertown, NY, was arrested at 11:32 p.m. on June 3, 2025, and charged with:

Criminal Trespass 2nd Degree
Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th Degree
Both are class A misdemeanors. Bohn is accused of unlawfully entering and remaining at a residence on Bronson St after being repeatedly told to leave and was also found in possession of nine Clonazepam pills. He was held pending arraignment.


William Nathan Monroe III, 26, of Paterson, NJ, was arrested at 1:08 a.m. on June 4, 2025, and...

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Watertown Police Department – Arrest Blotter - 07/25/25

Kyle Michael Matthews, 31
Charge: Grand Larceny 3rd Degree (Class D Felony)
Details:Arrested at 4:45 AM at 200 W Main St. Matthews, listed as homeless, allegedly stole a 2015 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R motorcycle valued at \$9,000 from 233 Mill Street.
Court: Arraigned in Watertown City Court at 9:00 AM
Arresting Officer: Sereenah C. George

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Brooklynn Marie Batsford
Charge: Bench Warrant – Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree (Class D Felony)
Details: Arrested by NYSP on 07/23/2025. Allegedly found with a weapon despite prior convictions.
Status: Held for arraignment

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 Aaron Loomis Rutter, 39
Charges:

 Assault 2nd Degree (Class D Felony)
 Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree (Class D Felony)
 Details: Arrested at 11:51 PM on 07/24/2025 at 908 Superior St. Accused of striking a victim in the head with a plastic lock sheet holder causing injury.
 Court: Arraigned in Watertown City Court
 Arresting Officer: Hayley E. Maguire

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Billy Joe Barnett-Martin
Charges:

Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd Degree
Operating Without Insurance

 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
  Details: Stopped on 07/24/2025 at 8:18 PM. Released with three UTTs.
  Return Court Date: August 12, 2025
  Location: Watertown
  Officers: Joshua M. O’Hearn, Joseph Giaquinto

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Amanda Lynn Serrano, 42
Charges:

Criminal Mischief 4th Degree (Class A Misdemeanor)
Harassment 2nd Degree (Violation)
 Details: Arrested on 07/14/2025 at 4:45 PM at 1011 Huntington St. Accused of damaging property worth \$160 and physically assaulting another person during a domestic incident.
  Arresting Officer: Virginia K. Sherrill

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Broken Promises and Shattered Trust: How VShojo Collapsed in Scandal and Betrayal

By Atticus Trash | Trash Media Group


What started as one of VTubing’s boldest experiments—a talent-first agency built on freedom and transparency—has ended in disgrace, bankruptcy, and legal questions that could shake the industry. VShojo, once celebrated for putting creators first, now stands accused of withholding over $500,000 in charity funds, failing to pay its own talent, and leaving fans and vendors out thousands of dollars on unfulfilled merchandise orders.

The collapse didn’t happen overnight. It’s a story of broken promises, mismanagement, and a desperate gamble that turned into the most explosive scandal VTubing has ever seen.

VShojo launched in 2020 with a unique pitch: unlike other agencies that owned talent IP and dictated every move, VShojo promised freedom and fair pay. Its CEO, Justin “Gunrun” Ignacio, a Twitch founding engineer, sold creators on transparency and trust.

For years, it worked—or at least it looked like it did. Talent rosters grew, conventions featured VShojo panels, and collaborations with major brands made headlines. But the seeds of collapse were planted in September 2024, when VShojo’s brightest star, Ironmouse, decided to break records for a cause close to her heart.

On September 2, 2024, Ironmouse launched a marathon Twitch subathon that would shatter all records: over 300,000 subscriptions, millions of views, and a tidal wave of community goodwill. But this wasn’t just a personal milestone.

It was pitched as a charity event. Half of all revenue from the subathon would go to the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF)—a cause deeply personal to Ironmouse, who has lived her entire adult life battling a severe immune disorder.


 

The promise wasn’t rumor—it came straight from VShojo leadership:

“Half of the streaming revenue during the Subathon will be donated.” — Justin Ignacio, CEO of VShojo

 

 


This public commitment set the tone for the entire campaign. Fans subscribed, donated, and spread the word, believing they were funding a life-saving mission.

The final tally? More than $500,000 promised to IDF.

But over a year later, the IDF hadn’t seen a dime.

On July 21, 2025, Ironmouse announced her immediate departure from VShojo in a heartbreaking statement, citing “broken trust” and confirming that the promised charity donation was never delivered.


                                         

Her words were blunt:

“I cannot continue to be part of an organization that has withheld funds raised for a charity so close to my heart.”

 


Fans were stunned. Other VShojo talents began quietly removing branding from their profiles. Rumors of NDAs and unpaid wages poured in. And then the dam broke.

Two days later, Justin Ignacio released a statement admitting full responsibility for VShojo’s failure and announcing the company’s shutdown.

 


“I acknowledge that some of the money spent by the company was raised in connection with talent activity, which I later learned was intended for a charitable initiative… At the time, we were working hard to raise additional investment capital

to cover our costs… We were unsuccessful.”

 


But here’s the problem: Justin knew. The receipts don’t lie. That October tweet promising charity wasn’t a misinterpretation. It was a deliberate, public pledge.

This isn’t just bad optics—it’s potential misappropriation of charitable funds, a serious legal and ethical violation.

As more creators broke silence, a grim picture emerged:

Kson: unpaid since September 2024.

Projekt Melody, Zentreya, Haruka Karibu, GEEGA, Henya: reported late or missing payments, forced silence under strict NDAs.

VeiBae: exposed internal secrets after NDAs collapsed, confirming a toxic, financially desperate environment.

What started as one person’s fight for accountability became a mass exodus.

If you thought it ended there, think again. Enter MKRO + Infinikey, the companies behind VShojo’s high-end keyboard collabs. Their July 24 statement revealed a new layer of the scandal:

 


“All sales and transactions were managed exclusively through the VShojo store… At this time, we have not received an order from VShojo and are actively working to gain clarity.”


 

Translation: VShojo took fan money for merch, never paid the vendor, and never delivered product details. This includes:

Pre-orders for Projekt Melody and Henya keycap sets.

Earlier in-stock sales for Ironmouse, Zentreya, and Haruka—likely including anime convention sales.

Fans are now scrambling for refunds, with many turning to chargebacks. This isn’t just mismanagement—it’s edging into consumer fraud territory.

By July 25, it was over. VShojo formally announced it was shutting down, citing lack of funds after burning through $11 million in investment.

 


Justin’s final words to the community?

   “I am deeply sorry… You did not deserve this.”

 


But apologies can’t erase the fact that talents were unpaid, fans were left hanging, and charity funds never reached their destination.

Justin’s Oct 2024 Tweet: Promises half of Ironmouse’s subathon revenue to IDF.

Justin’s July 2025 Shutdown Statement: Claims he only “later learned” funds were for charity.

Both can’t be true. And the timeline suggests something worse: VShojo used earmarked donations as a last-ditch lifeline to keep the lights on.

So what comes next for Vshojo now that operations have ceased?

Legal Trouble: Misuse of charitable funds can trigger state AG investigations and lawsuits.

Civil Liability: Fans and vendors may pursue action for unfulfilled merch orders.

Industry Impact: Sponsors will rethink deals. Creators will demand transparency—and agencies will face scrutiny like never before.

Meanwhile, Ironmouse has raised over $1 million for IDF through a new Tiltify campaign—proving the community’s faith in creators, even as agencies fail them.

 


Donations continue to flood into ironmouse's charity page, the proceeds going to the Immune Deficiency Foundation.

 

VShojo promised a revolution. Instead, it delivered the biggest betrayal VTubing has ever seen. Let this be the warning: without transparency and accountability, even the brightest stars can be dragged into darkness.


Trash Media Group © 2025

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WATERTOWN POLICE DEPARTMENT – DAILY ARREST SUMMARY

 

Amber Lee Burns, 34, Homeless – Charged with Trespass after officers observed her unlawfully remaining on posted city property at Factory Square Park. She was issued an appearance ticket returnable to City Court on July 28 at 9:00 a.m.

James Stuart Davis, 46, of 204 Winslow St, Watertown – Arrested on multiple occasions:

    • July 21: Charged with Menacing in the 3rd Degree following a domestic incident in which he allegedly threatened a woman with a vacuum cleaner tube.

    • July 21 (later the same day): Charged with an additional count of Menacing in the 3rd Degree after reportedly yelling threats to kill the same woman, causing her to barricade herself.

    • July 23: Charged with Criminal Contempt in the 2nd Degree for violating a stay-away order of protection. Davis was found in the protected party’s bedroom.

Xavier Emillel Mantock, 33, of 245 Central St, Watertown – Arrested July 21 and charged with:

    • Obstruction of Governmental Administration 2nd

    • Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th

    • Disorderly Conduct
      Officers responded to a complaint involving a knife; Mantock reportedly resisted a lawful frisk and was observed chasing a male with a knife and pole while yelling threats.

Christopher Allen Jesmer, 48, of 526 Curtis St, Watertown – Arrested July 21 and charged with:

    • Petit Larceny for stealing a bicycle from the roof of a vehicle.

    • Criminal Mischief 4th for slashing the tires of the same bicycle.

Billy Joe Kyne, 48, Homeless – Arrested July 22 and charged with Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree, a Class D felony. Kyne is accused of pushing a full-sized refrigerator off a third-story balcony, placing individuals below at grave risk.

Colby James Lacomb, 41, of 119 Girard Ave, Watertown – Arrested and charged with:

    • Harassment 2nd: Physical Contact

    • Endangering the Welfare of a Child
      Lacomb allegedly struck a 12-year-old with a charging cable, leaving visible injury.

Kshaun Tyrone Murphy, 31, of 515 Bradley St, Apt 6, Watertown – Arrested July 23 for Criminal Trespass in the 2nd Degree after entering a condemned and clearly marked residence.

Jonathan Eric Labarge – Arrested July 23 on an active bench warrant issued by Watertown City Court for Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest.

Daniel Eugene Keruskie, 47, of Glen Park – Arrested for Petit Larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise valued at $19.99 from Ace Hardware.

Kelly Marie Devoe, of Watertown – Cited for Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Insurance and Driving with a Suspended Registration. She was issued traffic tickets and released, with a court appearance scheduled for August 6.

 

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