Manchester Police Department releases scant details of response to ‘manhunt’

Authorities in Manchester said they had been disciplined after police officers were filmed saying they would launch a “manhunt” for a homeless person in an alley in August.

The Manchester Police Department has shared few details about the officers involved in the incident and how they were disciplined, and the agency did not respond to additional questions from NHPR. However, Union Leader reports The department suspended two officers and gave one a written warning.

In a joint statement issued by the police department and the mayor’s office Tuesday morning, Chief Allen Aldenberg took full responsibility for the officers’ actions.

“I also have a responsibility to address their behavior to make them better police officers,” Aldenberg said. “I am fully confident that the officers involved have learned a great deal from this incident and that this behavior will not occur again.”

Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais said he supported the department and its handling of the incident. He said law enforcement “should always be done in a compassionate and empathetic manner, with the ultimate goal of connecting an individual to resources and breaking the cycle of homelessness.”

“If an individual in this city wants and needs help, there is help available,” Ruais said, “However, we cannot tolerate unlawful behavior and I will continue to support the work of the Manchester Police Department.”

In an instant Mayor and Council Member Board meeting In early September, about a dozen Manchester residents voiced their displeasure with the city’s treatment of homeless residents, and this incident in particular.

Homelessness is a permanent challenge In recent years in New Hampshire. This summer, Manchester’s mayor and city council members voted ban camping on city streets and in parksFollowing the Supreme Court’s decision allowing this.