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Mayor Martin, Public Safety Officials Hold Interfaith Forum on Security in Stamford

Post Date:02/16/2017 5:00 PM

STAMFORD, CT – Mayor David Martin, Director of Public Safety Ted Jankowski and Stamford Police Chief Jon Fontneau today met with members of the Interfaith Council, leaders from faith communities, and other organizations to discuss their safety and security concerns since the new Presidential Administration has been in office. 

“I’ve said it many times: ‘Stamford is a city to many and a home to all,’” said Mayor Martin. “We will always welcome good, honest, hardworking individuals to Stamford. One of our goals is to make sure that Stamford is a safe city for all residents and visitors no matter their race, ethnic background or national origin.”

Several weeks ago Mayor Martin asked that the Stamford Police Department to increase patrols and outreach to mosques, churches, Planned Parenthood and the Trump Parc residential building. During the meeting, Mayor Martin expressed his concern for the safety of the entire Stamford Community in light of the many protests and incidents that have occurred recently throughout the nation.

The assembled group expressed concerns for the safety of the immigrant population in Stamford. The main concern is that crimes will not be reported by the immigrant community thus making them targets for crime.

Director Jankowski added, “There needs to be an open line of communication between community leaders, the administration, and the Stamford Police Department. People should not have to fear for their safety or repercussions for reporting a crime. If anyone feels threatened, they should call 911 immediately.”

There was also a concern that the Stamford Police Department was going to start arresting people based on national origin or their immigration status. 

Chief Fontneau noted, “Stamford Police Officers are prohibited from profiling people based on race, color or national origin. Like all police departments, we are in communication with federal agencies; however, Stamford Police Officers are neither immigration officers nor ICE agents. We are the Stamford police and are here to provide for the safety of all residents and visitors.”

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