ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Allentown police still are investigating a report that a noose was found on the desk a Black employee at City Hall in January by, according to a spokesperson.
Allentown Communications Manager Genesis Ortega provided no new updates about the investigation, because of its active status.
Allentown Police Department “will provide an update when new information becomes available,” Ortega told LehighValleyNews.com on Friday.
LaTarsha Brown on Jan. 10 reported finding a noose at her desk on the third floor of City Hall in Allentown’s community and economic development department.
A search warrant showed authorities sought her DNA after she declined to provide a voluntary sample. Ortega provided no update on the outcome of that search warrant.
All other city employees interviewed amid the investigation agreed to provide a DNA sample if asked, authorities said in court documents.
A rally and a federal probe
Dozens of protesters rallied Jan. 13 outside Allentown City Hall, where they demanded a federal investigation into the reported noose.
City Councilwoman Cynthia Mota announced federal investigators' involvement two days later.
Councilwoman Ce-Ce Gerlach labeled the noose a hate crime and told LehighValleyNews.com she expected a “quick" investigation.
“We fully understand the concerns of residents and employees and remain committed to resolving this matter appropriately."Genesis Ortega, Allentown communications manager
“There’s cameras all over City Hall,” she said in January.
Ortega said Mayor Matt Tuerk’s administration is working “to ensure a thorough and fair investigative process” and will offer updates when possible.
She said the mayor’s office “continues to work closely with law enforcement.”
“We fully understand the concerns of residents and employees and remain committed to resolving this matter appropriately,” Ortega said.
“We want to foster a safe, welcoming workplace that serves the city of Allentown.”
