Spring Valley Official Charged in Fatal Fire in Village Pleads Not Guilty

Spring Valley’s chief building inspector pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges connected to the fatal fire at an adult care facility in the village in March. That’s according to the Journal News. Wayne Ballard is accused of filing a fraudulent report with the state. He and five others face various charges related to the fire at the Evergreen Court Home for Adults that killed 35 year-old volunteer firefighter Jared Lloyd and a resident of the facility. Ballard’s attorney told the Journal News that the facts would show he’s not guilty. Ballard was released without bail and is due back in court September 28th. Meanwhile, News 12 is reporting the state sent a scathing letter to Spring Valley’s mayor over serious “discrepancies” in the village’s record-keeping.