Collins case still in city court

Feb. 28—Collins case still in city court

Former Niagara County legislator Will Collins was in Lockport City Court Wednesday morning to face a charge of third-degree criminal mischief in connection with a late October incident at Attitudes Bar.

Collins, 57, was accused of slashing a tire on a vehicle belonging to Roy Hamilton, outside the West Avenue bar, on Oct. 26. He pleaded not guilty during his Dec. 13 arraignment, and no resolution of the case has occurred in subsequent court appearances.

On Wednesday, Collins' attorney, George Muscato, said there has not been "a meeting of minds" on a plea to a reduced charge. He and Collins will be in court again March 27 for "the final disposition," Muscato said.

The incident outside Attitudes occurred only a couple of weeks before the 2023 general election and Collins, the eight-year incumbent 12th district county legislator, ended up losing to Democrat Carla Speranza by 28 votes.

Code Blue back in effect

Code Blue is in effect through 8 a.m. Friday in the city of Lockport, due to forecasted overnight below-freezing temperatures, per a directive issued by Mayor John Lombardi III.

Each day, any homeless person or individual without home heating may go directly to the Salvation Army, 50 Cottage St., between 8 and 10 p.m. for shelter.

After 10 p.m., anyone needing shelter should go to the walk-up window at Lockport Police Department, Niagara Street entrance, for assistance.