NAUGATUCK, Conn — A joint statement was released by Naugatuck Mayor N. Warren Hess, Police Commission Chairman Ralph Roper Jr., and Deputy Chief of Police C.Colin McAllister, condemning racist comments seen on social media allegedly made by the daughter of the Police Chief Steven Hunt.
The statement said the comments made were "disgusting and totally inappropriate," adding Naugatuck and the Police Department condemn any form of racism or bigotry.
Town officials said information is being gathered internally and are working on bringing in help from the outside to conduct an independent investigation. The Board of Education is also conducting its own investigation.
The statement continued by defending Chief Hunt and said the comments do not reflect his character and leadership of the Police Department.
The joint statement finished by saying, "we are also extremely proud of our Police Department for the unbiased manner in which they conduct their duties every day. Naugatuck is a community that values inclusiveness and diversity. Naugatuck welcomes everyone."
A letter from the Naugatuck High School Principal John Harris was also sent out to students and families saying the Superintendent, and the Title IX Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent Melissa Cooney were notified. A thorough investigation is being conducted of the posts.
Harris continued the letter by saying this language and ideas in the screenshots have no place in our classrooms, community, or anywhere in the country. He thanked the over 100 students who notified him of the posts.
