Police Department Takes Precautions and Provides Safety Tips to Safeguard Property and Businesses
METHUEN — Mayor Neil Perry and Police Chief Joseph Solomon report that members of the Methuen Police Department have conducted proactive outreach to local business owners, many of whom are just now starting to re-open amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, to discuss safety precautions the department is taking to safeguard local businesses during protest events planned in the Merrimack Valley this weekend.
“The Methuen Police Department stands alongside those who have raised their voices in peaceful protest,” Chief Solomon said. “Those seeking to have their voices heard have done so in a peaceful manner, and we defend that inherent right of our citizens. However, we are aware that others throughout the country are seeking not to protest but to commit acts of violence and vandalism. We are taking the appropriate steps to ensure public safety in our community.”
Methuen Police officers and detectives have conducted community policing outreach to businesses along Rt. 28 and Jackson Street earlier this week.
Out of an abundance of caution, the Methuen Police Department has advised business owners to remove any large trash receptacles on their property and take in any smaller trash barrels.
Chief Solomon and Mayor Perry also wish to dispel a rumor appearing on social media: Neither the city nor the Methuen Police Department are advising any businesses to board up their windows.
“All levels of government in the Merrimack Valley have had productive, earnest conversations with our law enforcement agencies over the past two weeks. They understand the right of citizens to peacefully assemble in protest and the careful balance that is also needed to ensure the safety of citizens and property,” Mayor Perry said. “We are confident in the training and leadership of public safety officials and their mutual aid partners.”
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