Prominent Central New York defense attorney and Salina judge has died at age 76

Liverpool, NY – Paul Carey, a longtime Central New York defense attorney and Salina city judge, has died. He was 76.

Carey was also a former deputy with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office announced Carey’s death late Wednesday with “deep sadness” and remembered him as a pioneer in the department and a lifelong public servant.

Carey began his career with the sheriff’s office, where he played a key role in establishing the agency’s K-9 unit. He served as the first handler of the K-9 unit, which the sheriff’s office said was close to his heart. Carey was especially proud of his service alongside his K-9 partner, Seamus.

Carey moved to the Syracuse area in 1978 to complete his undergraduate degree at Syracuse University before beginning his career in law enforcement.

After his time as a representative, Carey became a prominent advocate. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1988 after graduating from Syracuse University College of Law in 1987. Carey has served as a Salina city judge since 2008. He also served on the Salina City Council in the early 2000s.

Sheriff Toby Shelley and members of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office offered their condolences to Carey’s family, friends and loved ones.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult time as we honor and remember a man whose service and legacy will not be forgotten,” the sheriff’s office said.