Watertown mayor, police chief say recent violent incidents are unrelated

Watertown Mayor Sarah V.C. Pierce and Police Chief Cristin Lyon have released a joint statement addressing recent violent incidents in the city. The two officials said the incidents are not connected to one another and are isolated, and that there is no broader threat to the general public. They acknowledged that the incidents have worried residents and said those concerns are being taken seriously.

The statement said Watertown police are on duty around the clock responding to calls, investigating crimes and making arrests when appropriate, and are working with other city departments and with county and state law enforcement agencies. Pierce and Lyon said cities across New York and the country are dealing with similar public safety problems, and pointed to factors including domestic issues, substance abuse and mental illness. They also said the city is limited by available resources and by state law.

The officials asked residents to call 911 when they witness a crime or an immediate threat and not to assume someone else has already called. Suspicious activity can be reported to the Police Department's non-emergency line at 315-786-2601. The statement also encouraged residents to take part in Watertown's Neighborhood Watch program, lock vehicles and homes, keep valuables out of sight in parked vehicles, talk with young people about safety, and seek out community resources for substance use, mental health or housing needs.