Statement on North Georgia Shootings and Message to AAPI Residents

Our AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) residents, including our own AAPI Officers, are hurting today after the recent tragedies in North Georgia. We stand with them, the victims, and the victim's families during this difficult time.

Hate crimes and any form of discrimination against our AAPI residents have no place here in Cambridge. Our Officers will fully investigate, document, and respond to all allegations of bias or hate-motivated crime. These words are backed by action.

As an example, a daughter of a Cambridge resident (who is Asian American), reported last summer that her mother was being verbally harassed for many years at her home by an elderly neighbor in her apartment building. Every time she turned on the television, the neighbor reportedly banged on her door and demanded she turn off the television. Those interactions led to her being fearful of turning on the television and even leaving her apartment. After being contacted, our Officers worked closely with the daughter and mother. Officers then brought building management into the discussions. While the mother ultimately did not want to obtain a Harassment Prevention Order against the neighbor, the building manager was informed that if the neighbor’s harassing behavior did not stop, then the police would be involved and he could face charges. Additionally, the Officer and the daughter looked into other apartment options for the mother. Since this report was brought to the attention of the Cambridge Police Department, no additional issues have been reported by the mother or the daughter.

If you or someone you know is a victim of a hate crime (or any crime), please do not hesitate to contact us. We will do everything in our power to ensure their safety and the safety of the community.