NORTHVILLE — The Klu Klux Klan has reared itself in Fulton County trying to stir up interest, county Sheriff Richard Giardino said today.
The sheriff’s department is investigating whether any crimes were committed with the dispensing of KKK material over the weekend in Northville and the village of Mayfield.
“We’re trying to determine who did it,” Giardino said.
The sheriff noted KKK flyer activity in the area was first reported months ago in the village of Fort Plain in Montgomery County. A Gloversville man was been charged by village police after he distributed Ku Klux Klan fliers in Fort Plain around Valentine’s Day. The man, whose name is not being released for his own safety, was charged with peddling without a permit.
The Fulton County Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook page on Saturday reported that individuals are going around representing themselves as KKK members. Recent activity was reported in Northville, with people leaving small bags containing informational pamphlets with kitty litter at residences. The information notes an upcoming “Klan Rally” in July in Virginia.
Giardino said he believes the notes were accompanied by kitty litter because the litter helps weight down the notes. He noted the KKK’s message is protected by the First Amendment, but whether the persons who left the package trespassed, damaged property or littered might be a criminal matter. He said he’s also not sure if the municipalities involved have their own ordinances.
“People don’t want people on their lawns,” the sheriff stated.
The Facebook message from the sheriff’s office said the kitty litter “is not harmful and can be thrown out.”
If anyone has any information on camera footage of people leaving messages, contact the Fulton County sheriff’s office at (518) 736-2100.
Michael Anich covers Johnstown and Fulton County news. He can be reached at [email protected]
