58-Year-Old Stalked, Harassed Women, Creating 'Years Of Fear': Police

ORANGE COUNTY, NY — Women who endured years of harassment and fear, can rest a little easier after a recent arrest of a Wallkill man, according to police.

The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation at Middletown, in collaboration with the Town of Warwick Police Department, the Town of Goshen Police Department, the Orange County District Attorney's Office, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office conducted a joint investigation that resulted in the arrest of Patrick V. Panaro on Thursday.

"This investigation demonstrates the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies working collaboratively while pursuing parallel investigations," NYSP Troop F Bureau of Criminal Investigation Captain Brad Natalizio said. "By sharing information, coordinating resources, and combining investigative expertise, we can identify connections that may otherwise go unnoticed and build stronger cases. These partnerships are essential to holding offenders accountable and protecting our communities."

The 58-year-old's arrest followed the execution of a search warrant. The investigation involved allegations of stalking several victims over a period of several years.

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation at Middletown charged Panaro with third-degree stalking and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. The Town of Warwick Police Department also charged Panaro with offenses in a different but parallel investigation, NYSP said.

"Our hearts are with the young women who lived through years of fear," The Town of Goshen Police Department said in a statement. "Now that their alleged stalker has been identified, we hope they feel stronger, safer, and free to move forward. You are not alone. Your families, friends, police, and entire community stand behind you. Your strength is greater than the fear you faced. Always remember: NOW YOU ARE IN CONTROL."

Panaro was arraigned in Middletown City Court and released with instructions to reappear in the Town of Warwick Court and Town of Wallkill Court at later dates.

Police say the investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of stalking or harassment by Patrick V. Panaro is being encouraged to contact the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation at Middletown or the Town of Warwick Police Department Detective Division.