Former public defender from Medina gets 5 years in prison

Press Release, U.S. Attorney William Hochul’s Office

BUFFALO – U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul Jr. announced today that Adam Rissew, 39, formerly of Medina and a former Monroe County public defender was sentenced to 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.

Rissew, a current Rochester resident, was convicted of possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who handled the case, stated that on July 20, 2012, Medina police officers and members of the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force searched Rissew’s then-residence at 305 Catherine St. in the Village of Medina.

Officers found and seized in excess of 50 marijuana plants, paraphernalia related to the grow operation, numerous firearms and 684 rounds of various types of ammunition. Among the firearms found and seized was a loaded Glock 9mm semi automatic pistol that was secreted between Rissew’s mattress and box springs. During his plea Rissew admitted he used the pistol to protect his marijuana grow operation.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Medina Police Department, under the direction of former Chief Jose Avila, officers of the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force, under the direction of Chief Investigator Joseph Sacco, and Orleans County District Attorney Joseph Cardone.