An investigation is currently in motion following the discovery of an item resembling a noose at Allentown's City Hall. The Allentown Police Department has confirmed that they received notification around 7:30 a.m. about the disturbing item located on an employee's desk within City Hall on Friday, January 10. As reported by NBC Philadelphia, the police department is taking the incident seriously and urges anyone with information to step forward.
Reflecting on the wider implications for city hall staff, Allentown City Councilmember Ce-Ce Gerlach highlighted the fear that now grips city employees, addressing the psychological impact of the hate symbol. "Now [the employee is] traumatized and scared," Gerlach told CBS News Philadelphia. "I've spoken to other Black employees in City Hall just now -- they're scared." Gerlach, asserting the act as a hate crime, claimed the need for federal involvement in the investigation, expressing that the perpetrator should be not only terminated but also apprehended and charged.
The Allentown Police Department continues their probe into the case, having not disclosed additional details at this time. Mayor Matt Tuerk has held back commenting on the active investigation but has pledged dedication to a thorough inquiry, as mentioned in an interview with 6abc. The department reiterated the invitation for tips and information, which can be made anonymously via TIP411 or by contacting the Allentown Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division at 610-437-7721.
