As I mentioned in my message last week, we all were shocked and horrified to see the images of rioters violently breaching the Capitol building on January 6th. The Takoma Park Police immediately implemented security protocols, secured high profile sites in the city, and coordinated with our law enforcement partners across the region to provide mutual aid. At this time, I wish to reiterate that there are no active threats against the City of Takoma Park.
As we move forward during the next few weeks, we are implementing several security protocols. This involves a heightened 
level of alertness, communicating with our regional law enforcement partners, and monitoring intelligence related to the region and Takoma Park.
On specific days in and around the Presidential Inauguration, we will be on an “all hands on deck” patrol posture. This means all Takoma Park Officers will be actively conducting high-level uniform patrols in all areas of the city. The police presence will be noticeable and that is purposeful. There are other security protocols being put in place that we will not share publicly for obvious reasons.
I know there are a few groups who may want to conduct active patrols of the city. I would discourage this. We are amply prepared to keep our city safe. What we ask of our residents is that they continue to be our eyes and ears and report any suspicious activity to the police department. I assure you we will actively investigate all reports. Please note, however, that the display of symbols or signs is not on its own an indication of unlawful action. I want to reiterate that there are no active threats against the City of Takoma Park. That being said, we will continue to be fully prepared should any incident occur in the city.
During the next few weeks, the police department and the city government will be sending out frequent communications to update residents. This is important, as we want all residents to be fully informed.
Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions, suggestions, or concerns. We will get through these challenging times together and with the strength of our wonderful, welcoming, and inclusive community.
Chief DeVaul email: tonyd@takomaparkmd.gov
immediately implemented security protocols. This involved increasing our staffing, securing high profile sites in the City, and coordinating with our law enforcement partners across the region to provide mutual aid.
who have lost family members this year or who have had a difficult time. Although my husband died three years ago, I have felt his loss more this year. And, I lost a nephew to suicide two weeks ago – which I believe is an indirect COVID-19 death. Many City staff have lost loved ones this year and I so appreciate that they continue to work to serve the residents of Takoma Park despite the difficulty in doing so.
woman were shocking and appalling to witness. The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, who are handling the incident, have identified a suspect. Currently, the State’s Attorney’s office is reviewing the case to determine if charges will be filed. The City is working with the Old Town Business Association (OTBA), who commissioned the art, to ensure repairs are made. OTBA has stated that they are waiting to hear back on this and, once the information is available, will work with the artist, the City, and community leaders to determine what the next steps will be. OTBA and I have also been in contact with the Montgomery County Chapter of the NAACP regarding the incident. Our work cannot stop at restoring art. The defacement of this art starkly illustrates the need to continue to fight anti-Black racism.
