Buffalo, NY (WBEN) A property owner who faced several warrants for neglecting his properties has been arrested. Charles Dobucki was arrested Thursday by Buffalo Police.
Mayor Chris Scanlon says Dobucki has faced multiple citations and arrest warrants over the years for failing to address code violations and for neglecting his properties. His failure to appear in housing court has resulted in outstanding warrants for his arrest. Dobucki was arrested at an auto shop in North Buffalo on Delaware Avenue and taken into Buffalo Police custody on charges stemming from three outstanding housing court warrants and an additional count of false impersonation.
Scanlon says residents have voiced concerns for years regarding the deteriorating conditions of Dobucki's properties, which have negatively impacted their neighborhoods, in particular, the property at 2 St. Louis Place. “Through my renewed focus on neighborhood policing, increased patrols, and exemplary detective work, we are sending a clear message that property neglect and disregard for the law will not be tolerated in Buffalo,” says Scanlon. “Earlier this week, I met with residents to discuss our ongoing efforts not only regarding 2 St. Louis Place, but also several other properties owned by Mr. Dobucki that have fallen into dangerous disrepair across the city. These properties have been the subject of numerous complaints and violations, creating serious quality-of-life concerns in the surrounding communities. I want to commend the great work by Buffalo Police and the ongoing efforts from our city departments to hold negligent property owners accountable.”
“I am grateful for the apprehension of Charles Dobucki — a slumlord who has evaded the law for years while his properties fell into dangerous disrepair,” says Fillmore District Council Member Mitch Nowakowski. “For over six years, my office has worked to hold him accountable as my constituents endured the consequences of his neglect. This arrest is a long-overdue step toward justice for the residents of Allentown and the City of Buffalo at large, and I remain committed to seeing his properties dealt with swiftly and safely.”
Buffalo Police Commissioner Alphonso Wright says, “The Buffalo Police Department is unwavering in our dedication to public safety. Problem properties such as 2 St. Louis Place are not just a nuisance, they are a danger to the neighborhood. The lawlessness of derelict property owners is unacceptable. I will continue to work with Mayor Scanlon and Commissioner Amdur to eliminate this blight from our communities.”
The excitement among city leadership quickly turned to frustration, however, as Dobucki was released from custody. In a statement released late Thursday night, Mayor Scanlon said City Housing Court Judge Phillip Dabney "determined that current provisions in New York State’s bail reform laws prevented him from imposing bail or remanding Mr. Dobucki."
More than 200 manhours went into find Dobucki according to the mayor. "To see him released after less than six hours in custody is infuriating for myself, city authorities and our police officers."
Scanlon says there needs to be a re-examination of bail reform laws. “The communities and residents of Buffalo deserve better, and I am committed to advocating with state legislators to address these shortcomings in our legal system."