The City of Geneva is mourning the loss of one of our Police Records Specialists, Cathy Baldwin, who died unexpectedly at her Cortland home on June 20.

When Cathy did not arrive for work this morning, attempts were made to contact her by telephone. Knowing this was uncharacteristic of Cathy, Cortland Police were contacted to check her residence.

Upon the arrival of the Cortland Police, officers discovered Ms. Baldwin was deceased inside her home. The initial investigation determined Cathy’s 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.”

Cathy, 53, began her employment with the City in 1981 as a part-time Parking Control Enforcement Officer. She became a full-time employee in 1984. Her duty assignment changed to a Community Service Officer in 1988, and she was transferred in 1999 to her current position of Police Records Specialist.

City leaders and the Police Department are reaching out to Cathy’s family to provide them with any assistance they may need. The City also has arranged for grief counselors to be available for employees to help cope with this difficult news.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

The City of Geneva flag will continue to fly at half-staff in honor of Cathy Baldwin. Our sincerest condolences are extended to Cathy’s family, friends and co-workers.