Maplewood Township Committee Members targeted by Anti-Police Protesters

STATEMENT FROM THE MAPLEWOOD TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE AND SOUTH ORANGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

On the evening of August 4, Maplewood Township Committee members Greg Lembrich and Vic De Luca were victims of trespassing and vandalism at their homes. Persons entered their property and placed several yard signs near their front doors. These signs expressed anti-police messages, contained derogatory and offensive language, and, in one instance, specifically included the name of South Orange Police Chief Kyle Kroll. Given the targeted nature of these actions, the recent horrific attack at the home of a New Jersey federal judge, and the fact that a young child resides in one of the homes, police authorities are treating this matter seriously, and an investigation is ongoing. As elected officials of our two towns, we are deeply disappointed by these incidents and join together to address this inappropriate behavior. While we fully support the rights of all residents to express their views, whether at public meetings, online, or through peaceful protest, we condemn any and all behavior designed to threaten, intimidate, or harm public officials, their families, or their property. No one in our community, public official or otherwise, should be made to feel violated or unsafe in their home. Regardless of one’s views on the issue of defunding and/or disarming police, trespassing and vandalism under cover of darkness crosses the line from activism into criminality.

I wonder if the Police have any leads.Of the 5 TC Members why would they target these two? 

Also odd that they would name the SO Police Chief while targeting Maplewood officials.

An element common to all truly evil enterprises is personal intimidation of an individual and/or their families and friends. If these cowards think their actions are justified then they should come forward and claim responsibility.  

Has there been any follow up?

Perhaps it was someone that wants people to believe it was anti-police protestors.