Genvea mourning longtime 'valued' police employee

Geneva is mourning one of its police records specialists, Cathy Baldwin, who died unexpectedly at her Cortland home on Friday.

According to a village news release, she did not arrive for work Friday morning.

Cortland police were asked to perform a well-being check at Baldwin's home since her absence was uncharacteristic.

Upon their arrival, police officers discovered Baldwin's body. The initial investigation determined her death was the result of natural causes. The DeKalb County Coroner's Office will be conducting an investigation to determine the exact cause of death.

"We were all shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Cathy's death this morning. I think most of us are still in a state of disbelief," Chief of Police Steve Mexin said. "Cathy has been our friend and a valued police department employee for a long time. She will definitely be missed by us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family."

Baldwin, 53, began her working for the village in 1981 as a part-time parking control officer. She became a full-time employee in 1984. She was transferred in 1999 to police records specialist.

The Geneva flag will continue to fly at half-staff in her honor.