Community reacts to Cambridge-Greenwich Police Chief arrest

WASHINGTON COUNTY, N.Y. (NEWS10) - The Village of Cambridge's Board of Trustees and Mayor Carman Bogle released a statement regarding the arrest of Cambridge-Greenwich Police Chief Robert Danko after holding an executive session on Thursday.

According to the Village of Cambridge, a criminal complaint was filed against Danko by his estranged wife, and following his arrest, he has been placed on paid administrative leave so information can be reviewed.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office says Robert Danko, who was selected as the new Cambridge-Greenwich Police Chief on July 3, was arrested following a domestic incident investigation. Deputies say Danko is charged with second-degree harassment and second-degree unlawful imprisonment.

In the statement released by the Village of Cambridge, the conduct concerning the complaint did not happen while Danko was on the job.

Residents of both Cambridge and Greenwich are reserving judgment of the situation, and many are shocked to find out the chief was arrested. Some, like Jesse Dodge, who is currently working in Cambridge, are openly expressing disappointment in the circumstance, while others recall positive experiences they have had with the Danko.

“I think it’s a shame to put someone like that in power," Dodge said. "They could have done better. They probably trust in the rest of the police to step up and do what’s right.”

Jacqueline Whitman of the Hubbard Block Antique Store in Cambridge, said Danko was always available when she needed assistance with her store. She recalled an instance where Danko was quick to help her when a man had a medical emergency in her store.

Holly Harris, owner of Windy Hill CBD in Greenwich, said she has seen Danko interact with the community in a positive way.

"He’s a great guy, I don’t feel that; I have never seen him do anything wrong; he’s right there in the village whenever we need something," Harris said. "I have seen him direct traffic, crossing guards, helping kids."

NEWS10 has reached out to the Mayor of the Village of Cambridge and Greenwich, for answers about who is currently in charge of the police department, by both phone and email, and has not received a reply.

Danko is expected to appear in Salem town court on Monday, July 15.