Liverpool, N.Y. — Paul Carey, a longtime Central New York defense attorney and Salina town judge, has died. He was 76.
Carey was also a former Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office deputy. The Sheriff’s Office announced Carey’s death late Wednesday night with “profound sadness,” remembering him as a pioneer within the department and a lifelong public servant.
Carey began his career with the Sheriff’s Office, where he played a key role in establishing the agency’s K-9 Unit. He served as the unit’s first K-9 handler, a position the Sheriff’s Office said he held close to his heart. Carey was especially proud of his service alongside his K-9 partner, Seamus.
Carey moved to the Syracuse area in 1978 to complete his bachelor’s degree at Syracuse University before beginning his career in law enforcement.
After his time as a deputy, Carey became a prominent defense attorney. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1988 after graduating from the Syracuse University College of Law in 1987. Carey served as a Salina town justice beginning in 2008. He also served on the Salina Town Board in the early 2000s.
Sheriff Toby Shelley and members of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office extended their condolences to Carey’s family, friends and loved ones.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time, as we honor and remember a man whose service and legacy will not be forgotten,” the Sheriff’s Office said.