WALTHAM — The Waltham Police Department has intensified surveillance and patrols at the former Walter E.
Fernald State School property amid growing community concerns, officials announced Sunday.
Police officers are conducting frequent checks of the property at various times throughout the day and night, utilizing additional surveillance methods to monitor the area.
Over the past 18 months, more than 50 individuals have been arrested or charged with crimes related to the property, primarily for vandalism, trespassing, and other offenses.
Most encounters have involved juveniles or young adults from surrounding communities.
“We continue to implement a zero-tolerance approach with these incidents,” the department stated in a press release.
Authorities are documenting new signs of vandalism and referring damage to secured entry points to relevant city departments for repair.
The police department emphasized that there are currently no indicators of any groups or individuals occupying the property.
Incidents involving potential bias are reported to state and federal law enforcement partners.
According to federal law enforcement, there are no known organized hate groups operating in the area.
Officials stated they would be immediately alerted to any credible intelligence on this matter.
The Waltham Police Department encourages anyone with information about crimes or incidents at the Fernald property to contact their non-emergency line at 781-314-3600 or use their anonymous tip line at 781-314-3636.
