11/10/2015 UPDATE:
The Burlington Police Department has identified a person allegedly responsible for the distribution of at least two Ku Klux Klan recruitment fliers in the city in late October. Yesterday, BPD Detective Thomas Nash conducted an interview at a retail location in Burlington where a person made admissions to his role in distributing the fliers in the city. His statements were corroborated by fingerprint and video evidence. The path to this person thought to be responsible incorporated credible tips from the public at more than one point, and was buoyed by a fast-moving investigation.
“The racism and hate that the Ku Klux Klan represents has no place in our community,” said Mayor Miro Weinberger. “I am pleased that the Burlington Police Department has been able to quickly identify the person thought to be responsible with the help of information supplied by the public. The swift, successful investigation sends a strong message that Burlington condemns acts of racism.”
“Identifying this man was the product of excellent detective work by Burlington investigators,” said Chief of Police Brandon del Pozo. “It was the culmination of tips provided by both the community and the FBI, forensic and video analysis, and a thorough investigation. On its face, the placement of a handful of fliers in semi-public places is a very difficult case to solve. That our detective bureau was able to identify and find the person thought to be behind this act is a testament to their skill and professionalism, especially that of Detective Nash. It demonstrates that a relationship of trust between the police and the community can generate the leads that ultimately solve cases.”
The investigation's findings have been turned over to the State’s Attorney’s Office, which is weighing the suitability of criminal charges. The identity of the person identified is being withheld pending this process. The investigation continues, including the collection of additional evidence. Any person who has received one of these fliers is urged to call Detective Thomas Nash at 802-540-2221.
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The Burlington Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the male depicted below:
This male is considered a person of interest in the distribution of the KKK Flyer in the City of Burlington which occurred on October 29th, 2015. Anyone with information related to the identify of this male are urged to call the Burlington Police or the Champlain Valley Crime Stoppers, (802) 864-6666.
