Jackson Police Department News Release

Bias Investigation

On Saturday September 14, 2019, officers responded to a residence located on Louisiana Parkway on the report of a bias incident.

It was reported that two Jewish residents were standing near the curb in front of the residence when a passing vehicle swerved at them, forcing them to jump onto the curb to safety. As the vehicle passed, the occupants of the vehicle were reported to have been yelling obscenities and insults in reference to their religion at the residents. The vehicle drove down the street and turned around and came back, swerving at the two a second time as the occupants again yelled obscenities and insults at the two. A nearby resident who observed the incident then called police headquarters to report it.

Police Officer Stephen Cilento investigated the incident and was able to identify the driver of the vehicle after being provided with the license plate. The teenaged male driver was later identified and juvenile complaints charging him with harassment and bias intimidation were prepared. The matter will be forwarded to the Family Court.

The investigation is ongoing at this time and additional complaints may be signed as it proceeds.

– The media and the public are reminded that any persons arrested or charged with any offenses or crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

Captain Steven Laskiewicz

Investigations Division Commander

Public Information Officer

Jackson Police Department

September 16, 2019