According to a press release from the New York State Police, Fourth Ward Alderman Rodney Wojnar was arrested on Friday, August 3 and charged with one count of third degree patronizing a prostitute, which is a class A misdemeanor. He was processed in Fonda and issued an appearance ticket, with a court date in the Town of Glenville on August 28.
When reached for comment today, Mayor Michael Villa said, “I just think that in light of the allegations, and I’m not saying he’s guilty or innocent…I think when you’re elected and when you represent a portion of the city, really the entire city…that you don’t want to distract from the job that needs to be done, the momentum that the city has brought forward.”
While Villa had not yet talked to Wojnar, he stated that in his opinion, Wojnar should step down as alderman.
“Step aside in light of the allegations, take care of your personal business. To me, that is what I would recommend,” said Villa.
Fifth Ward Alderman Jim Martuscello said he had talked to Wojnar and said the story behind the arrest is “complicated” and that in his opinion, Wojnar is innocent.
In regards to whether Wojnar should step down or not, Martuscello said, “It’s his decision, he has to answer to his constituents.”
Requests for comment from Wojnar have yet to be returned.
