Mayor Michael O'Connor and Chief of Police Jason Lando have issued the following statements regarding ongoing violence between Hamas and Israel in the Middle East.
From Mayor Michael O’Connor
“We are all watching the events taking place in the Middle East and it is easy to become alarmed by rhetoric and normal to feel fear about this global uncertainty. There is no greater priority for me than the safety and security of The City of Frederick and that we remain an inclusive community, unified, where everyone can thrive. I condemn the terrorism that has brought us to this moment and mourn the lives of innocent civilians lost this week. As Mayor, I will continue to monitor these events, working with our police and our law enforcement partners to address rumors that we could see responses in communities in our country to events overseas. I have the fullest confidence in the residents of our City that we will rise above this conflict and come together to support one another as we have always done. Despite this horrific violence, I remain hopeful that peace is possible and can be found.”
From Chief of Police Jason Lando
“The Frederick Police Department is aware of recent statements made calling for action as it relates to the conflict in the Middle East. While FPD has no information regarding specific or credible threats to The City of Frederick, we will continue to closely monitor these events and coordinate with agency partners to share information. FPD will increase patrols in areas of houses of worship. We urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that might be observed so officers can investigate.”