March 18, 2021
The recent and disturbing acts of violence targeting members of the Asian American and Pacific Island community are both appalling and disgusting. I join the men and women of the Amherst Police Department in strongly condemning these cowardly crimes of bullying, bigotry and violence. Our collective thoughts are with the victims and those traumatized by these senseless acts.
As your Police Chief, I know that hate crimes and incidents are acts that demand immediate attention and investigation. If a bias based crime is not recognized for its hatred, the perpetrators often feel as though their sentiments are shared or accepted which can lead to a pattern of additional crimes. All members of our community deserve to feel safe.
We encourage the entire community to stand together to protect one another. Please contact the Amherst Police Department to report any racist, anti-Semitic or xenophobic actions if you have been targeted, victimized or have witnessed such an incident.
Together we can overcome many obstacles and create a safer Amherst.
Sincerely,
Scott P. Livingstone
Chief of Police
Amherst Police Department: 413-259-3000
Northwestern District Attorney: 413-584-9225
Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division: 617-963-2917
