Lehigh Valley
After investigation the Allentown police determined city hall employee placed noose on her own desk
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – Back in January, LaTarsha Brown told police she found what she thought was a rope noose on the desk at her third-floor office at Allentown City Hall. After two months of outrage and claims of racism, Allentown Police say Brown herself planted the noose.
“Ms. Brown notified the Allentown Police Department that she discovered what she thought was a noose on her desk upon arriving to work” said Allentown Police Capt. Steve Milkovits.
Video surveillance and building access control records revealed the nine employees present between Brown’s departure from work the day before and her arrival the morning after.
Every employee, except Brown, agreed to provide a buccal swab for a DNA test if needed.
“Those employees were interviewed each was asked if they could provide a buccal swab for DNA testing if needed. Every employee agreed except for Ms. Brown” said Captain Milkovits. Police say Brown, who also serves on the Allentown School Board, then requested that the investigation be discontinued. Ms. Brown’s DNA sample was obtained through a search warrant.
Her DNA matched the DNA profile found on the noose, according to a forensic report issued on March 10. “No other person’s DNA profile was found on the evidentiary items involved in this investigation,” police said in a release.
Brown is now facing charges in connection with the noose investigation, including tampering with or fabricating physical evidence and false reports to law enforcement authorities. Both are misdemeanor offenses.
“Shocking, disappointing is a good way to put it” said Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk who could not comment on Brown’s employment status with the City.
Tuerk says he’s glad the cloud of suspicion against other City employees has been lifted.
“It does point out racism shows up everywhere. It shows up in unexpected ways and we have a strong responsibility to battle it particularly in our workplace, to create an inclusive work environment” Tuerk said.
Brown is scheduled in court for a preliminary hearing on April 22.
