UPD Deletes Facebook Page, Cites Criticism From Politicians

The Utica Police Department has deactivated its Facebook page, citing "strong criticism by local and state politicians."

UPD Public Information Officer, Sergeant Steve Hauck, says the decision was made after several people stated the page showed "Utica in a poor light."

In those cases, people were commenting on the looks of others or making derogatory and racially driven comments.

Hauck noted that the page had several merits, though, such as assisting in closing dozens of cases that would have been harder to solve otherwise. He also praised the page's ability to disperse information to the media and public quickly.

Currently, there is no timetable for the page's return.