Man Arrested on Domestic Charges in Jay

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New York State Police arrested a 37-year-old man from Ausable Forks, James F. Gaffney, on multiple charges following a domestic dispute on March 18, 2026. Gaffney was charged with two counts of Criminal Contempt in the First Degree, Aggravated Family Offense, and Resisting Arrest after he violated a full stay-away order of protection and became aggressive when troopers attempted to take him into custody.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents often involve complex legal and social issues, with orders of protection intended to protect victims but sometimes violated by perpetrators. This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in enforcing such orders and the need for comprehensive solutions to address domestic abuse.

The details

Troopers responded to a report of a domestic dispute on Hazen Road around 12:28 a.m. on March 18th. An investigation determined that Gaffney had violated a full stay-away order of protection by going to a residence where his two daughters, who were the protected parties, were located. When interviewed, Gaffney became visibly upset and aggressive, and he refused to comply when troopers attempted to take him into custody. The troopers were eventually able to safely detain and arrest Gaffney.

• On March 18, 2026, troopers responded to a report of a domestic dispute around 12:28 a.m.

What’s next

Gaffney was arraigned in the Town of Jay Court and remanded to the Essex County Jail.