A Message to the Reading Community from the Town Manager and Police Chief

 

“It is under the greatest adversity that there exists the greatest potential for doing good, both for oneself and others.” – Dalai Lama XIV

As a society, increasingly we see what were once peaceful disagreements quickly escalate into open hostility.

As a community, we welcome differences of opinion. We treasure and protect free speech. We DO NOT condone NOR welcome extremists that seek to spread discord and inspire violence.

This Message is not due to any events or threats within our community. It is simply a reminder that we are here 24/7 “to Protect and Serve” Reading residents, businesses and visitors. We ask that you call on us at any time if you see or hear anything that makes you feel unsafe in your neighborhoods.

The Mission Statement of the Reading Police Department reads in part “to ensure that the peace and tranquility of our neighborhoods are maintained and that crime and the fear of crime are reduced”. Further, the department “emphasizes and values integrity, honesty, impartiality and professionalism … in order to create an environment that values differences and fosters fairness and flexibility”.

The men and women of the Reading Police Department risk their safety daily because they see the ‘potential for doing good’ and embrace its value. Perhaps none of us can have much impact on how broader society acts and reacts, but together we decide how our community does. Let’s all take advantage of the opportunity to do some good.

Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Town Manager 

Mark D Segalla
Chief of Police 

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