Homer Woman Facing Numerous Charges After Assaulting Sheriff Deputies During Structure Fire in Homer

The Cortland County Sheriff’s Office have announced charges for a Homer woman who was arrested following an altercation with law enforcement during a structure fire in Homer on Sunday.

Officers with the Sheriff’s Office responded to 35 James Street to assist with a structure fire. While officers were on scene, they instructed 47 year old Kyna K. Malchak, of Homer, to clear from the scene for her safety and the safety for first responders battling the blaze. According to county records, Malchak is listed as the property owner of 35 James.

However, Malchak refused to comply with officers commands to evacuate from the scene and began to kick and punch a female officer. The office was also attacked by one of Malchak’s dogs; the officer suffered bite marks to her leg and arm and was later transported to Upstate University Hospital. She was released later that day.

Another responding officer was also kicked and punched, the Sheriff’s Office says. Malchak was eventually taken into custody by officers from both the Sheriff’s Office and Homer Police. The second officer assaulted was also taken to a hospital and later released.

Malchak was transported to the Sheriff’s Office on several charges including 2 counts of Assault in the 2nd, a Felony, Assault in the 3rd, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 4th, Resisting Arrest, and Obstructing Govt. Administration in the 2nd, all Misdemeanors.

She was processed and later arraigned through the centralized arraignment process Monday morning. Malchak was remanded to Cortland County Jail on $1,000 bail. She is due in Homer Town Court on March 3.

The Sheriff’s Office says the fire is being treated as suspicious and the investigation remains ongoing. State Fire continues their investigation on scene.

Malchak could face additional charges as the investigation continues.