University Police Personnel Profiles
Timothy Ashley, Chief of University Police
Chief Ashley became Chief of University Police at SUNY Canton in August 2022. He received his A.A.S. in Criminal Justice from SUNY Canton, his BA in Human and Community Services from Empire State College and a Masters Degree in Education Leadership from St. Lawrence University. He originally joined the University Police force at SUNY Canton in 2001, where he served as a field training officer and earned a Meritorious Service Award in 2007 for saving the life of a fellow officer. In 2009, he joined SUNY Potsdam's University Police, becoming a Lieutenant a year later. He was named Deputy Chief in 2013 and Chief in 2016. Chief Ashley holds specialized certification as an instructor in General Topics, Bike Patrol Certification, Firearms, and is a Field Training Officer. He is also a NYS DCJS Law Enforcement Accreditation Assessor.
Tyler Thomas, Lieutenant
Lt. Thomas has been a member of the department since 2017. He received his Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Canton. Officer Thomas holds specialized certification as a General Topics Instructor.
Benjamin Dent, Lieutenant
Lt. Dent has been a member of the department since 2021. He received an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Canton. Officer Dent is a General Topics and Defensive Tactics Instructor.
Dale W. Hutchins, Officer
Officer Hutchins has been a member of the department since 2004. He received his Associates Degree from SUNY Morrisville. Officer Hutchins holds specialized certification as a Field Training Officer.
Tammy J. LaPage-Avery, Officer
Officer LaPage-Avery has been a member of the department since 2008. She received her Associates Degree from SUNY Canton and her Bachelor's Degree from SUNY Potsdam, and a Certificate in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Officer LaPage-Avery holds specialized certification as an Evidence Technician and as a Field Training Officer.
David J. Cummings, Officer
Officer Cummings has been a member of the department since 2013. He received his Associates Degree from Mohawk Valley Community College and his Bachelor’s Degree from SUNY IT (Utica). Officer Cummings holds specialized certification as a Field Training Officer, General Topics Instructor, Glock Armorer, and a Bike Patrol Officer. He is also a Standard Field Sobriety Testing Instructor.
Joseph Kubinski, Officer
Officer Joseph Kubinski has been a member of the department since 2013. He received his Associate’s Degree from Jefferson Community College. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Empire State College. Officer Kubinski holds a certification in Property/Evidence Room Management.
Joshua Eng, Officer
Officer Eng has been a member of the department since 2021. He received his Master’s Degree from St. Lawrence University. Officer Eng holds specialized certification as a Bike Patrol Officer and has a New York State Emergency Medical Technician certificate. Officer Eng holds certifications in Property/Evidence Room Management and is a Field Training Officer, General Topics Instructor and AED/CPR Instructor for the American Heart Association.
Jacob Pitcher, Officer
Officer Pitcher has been a member of the department since 2021. He received an Associate’s Degree in General Studies from SUNY Canton, and is a United States Navy veteran. Officer Pitcher also holds a Bike Patrol Certification.