UNION VALE – The harassment charge brought earlier this year against Beekman Highway Superintendent Anthony Coviello has been dismissed, ending months of political tension and public speculation.
On Wednesday night, Union Vale Town Justice Paul Pancio tossed the case after prosecutors declined to oppose a defense motion for dismissal.
Background of the Case
In April 2025, Coviello was accused of harassment by Sharon Wohrman, a Beekman resident who alleged he confronted her in her car on April 21, 2025. According to the complaint, Wohrman had been taking photographs outside Coviello’s home, prompting the confrontation.
Initially, the case was slated to be heard in Beekman Justice Court, but both sitting judges recused themselves, citing conflicts. The matter was then reassigned to Union Vale Court.
The Courtroom Scene
The dismissal hearing drew considerable local attention. Sitting with Wohrman in the courtroom were two of Coviello’s political rivals: Dutchess County Legislator Faye Garrito and Beekman Town Supervisor Mary Covucci.
On the opposite side, Coviello was supported by allies, including Town Clerk Laureen Abbatantuono, who is running unopposed for supervisor in the upcoming election.
Coviello’s attorney, Ryan LeGrady, a former Dutchess County prosecutor, argued that the complaint failed to meet the legal standard for harassment. Citing case law, LeGrady urged the court to dismiss.
“The complaint does not meet the standard to be considered harassment,” LeGrady said. “The court must dismiss it.”
Special Prosecutor Hannah Atkinson then informed the judge that the prosecution, “in good faith, cannot oppose the motion.”
Judge Pancio, after reviewing the complaint signed by Wohrman, called it “weak in substance” and ruled to dismiss the case outright.
Coviello’s Version of Events
After the ruling, Coviello spoke to Mid-Hudson News and later released a detailed statement on social media, offering his side of the story.
He claimed that Wohrman and Supervisor Covucci had repeatedly driven past his home and taken photographs over the past two years. Coviello said he reported these incidents to the town attorney and board but no action was taken.
On April 21, Coviello said he noticed a white car parked outside his driveway with Wohrman behind the wheel and Covucci in the passenger seat, apparently taking pictures.
“At first, I waved, not fully understanding what was happening,” Coviello recounted. “But as I realized they were photographing me, the car drove away.”
Coviello said he followed the car briefly, later confronting Wohrman from more than 25 feet away after she had dropped Covucci off. According to Coviello, he asked why they were photographing him. Wohrman allegedly replied, “It was Mary,” before rolling up her window.
Coviello then called 911 to report the incident.
Allegations of Political Motivation
Coviello argued that the complaint against him was politically motivated, linked to longstanding rivalries in Beekman town politics.
Earlier this year, Coviello faced a Republican primary challenge from Brian Green, during which campaign literature raised questions about Coviello’s residency. Supporters of Coviello believe the photographs were part of an effort to bolster these accusations.
Despite the controversy, Coviello defeated Green by a wide margin, 585–198, securing the GOP nomination for re-election.
In his public statement, Coviello accused Garrito, Covucci, Wohrman, and others of orchestrating a campaign to discredit him.
“These are people who, for months, have made it their mission to smear my name and undermine my work,” Coviello wrote. “Tonight, justice prevailed. Their political games failed, and I was vindicated.”
Political Fallout
The courtroom drama highlights the deep divisions in Beekman’s local government. Coviello, who has served as Highway Superintendent for more than 14 years, framed the case as part of a broader effort by entrenched officials to maintain control.
“The current administration, and the people behind it, have been in power for far too long,” Coviello said. “They will stop at nothing to hold on to their positions and power, even if it means attempting to ruin the reputations of those who challenge them.”
He singled out Garrito, head of the Republican Committee, and Karen Temple, another local political figure, accusing them of working to remove him from the ballot.
Support From Residents
Coviello’s dismissal was met with relief from many of his supporters, who argued that the case was a waste of taxpayer resources and a distraction from town business.
Abbatantuono, who has worked alongside Coviello, praised his dedication to public service and suggested that the harassment charge was never credible.
Local residents sympathetic to Coviello echoed similar sentiments on social media following the judge’s ruling.
Coviello’s Closing Message
In his lengthy statement, Coviello reassured residents that he remains committed to his role and the community.
“The challenges we face are not over, but as we move forward, I remain committed to keeping our community safe, improving our infrastructure, and serving you with the dedication you deserve,” he wrote.
He ended with a call for unity and renewal:
“I look forward to the future of Beekman and to the day when we can all put these divisive tactics behind us for a better Beekman. For the people, by the people.”
What Comes Next
With the case dismissed, Coviello is now free to focus on his re-election campaign. He remains the Republican nominee and, barring unforeseen developments, will continue to serve as Beekman’s Highway Superintendent.
The incident, however, underscores the personal and political tensions that continue to divide Beekman’s leadership. As election season approaches, those divisions may shape not only Coviello’s campaign but also the broader direction of town politics.
For now, the legal cloud has lifted. Coviello, vindicated in court, is turning his attention back to the roads, bridges, and infrastructure that define his day-to-day responsibilities—leaving the political storm for the voters to resolve.
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