Community members expressed frustration with the progress of the Lawson case at a community meeting held by Arcata City Council on Oct. 26.
The second of six planned community sessions was held to provide Lawson case updates and discuss student safety. Humboldt State University students and faculty and Arcata community members filled the D Street Neighborhood Center expecting answers.
Arcata Police Department Chief, Tom Chapman gave updates on the Lawson murder case. Chief Chapman said APD has recruited Tom Parker, former FBI agent “to objectively review the case…considering the complexities and subtleties.”
Chapman said forensic evidence testing results have been received, yet APD is “a couple months out from ability to do testing on the last, outstanding piece of evidence.”
Limited information was provided due to the confidentiality of the case.
Community members urged for more transparency with the current process of the investigation and activism on behalf of the city.
Students of HSU voiced concerns of student safety both on campus and in the community.
Humboldt State University President, Lisa Rossbacher said “we [HSU] are working in conjunction with the city to ensure we have a safer environment for students.”
“By hearing stories of students feeling threatened… give city insights of how to provide safety for students.” Rossbacher said.
Chief Chapman urges students to come forward with any safety concerns, as well as suggestions for community involvement.
