The police chief provided an update on the troubling trend of cryptocurrency scams impacting the community. In the past six months, six reported scams resulted in financial losses totaling approximately $141,890. These scams often targeted vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, and involved cryptocurrency ATMs found in local gas stations and convenience stores. The chief emphasized the challenges posed by delayed reporting, with victims typically waiting 12 to 24 hours before contacting authorities, which hampers the investigation process.

Remarkably, in one successful recovery effort, the department, collaborating with the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, managed to return $41,900 to a senior woman who had unknowingly deposited $42,000 into a crypto ATM after falling victim to a law enforcement scam. Such recoveries are exceptional due to the complexities involved in tracing cryptocurrency transactions. To combat these scams, the police have placed fraud alert notices near cryptocurrency ATMs, warning users that “the US government doesn’t take cryptocurrency” and highlighting that funds are typically irretrievable once sent.

The Select Board also focused on issues related to youth behavior, particularly concerning increased complaints about kids on bikes in downtown areas and near malls. The police chief confirmed these incidents and outlined enforcement actions, including seizing bikes from youths acting inappropriately and engaging with their parents to address the behavior. The chief acknowledged the timing challenges in addressing these complaints, which often coincide with busy periods for the department, but assured the board of ongoing efforts to manage the situation.

In another noteworthy matter, the board discussed the results of recent alcohol compliance checks. Law enforcement officers conducted these checks using underage interns from the high school. One notable violation occurred at Cathy’s liquor store, where a six-pack of Bud Light was sold to an underage intern without an ID check. This incident led to a motion to summon the store before the board in August to discuss the violation, with potential consequences including license suspension or revocation.

The meeting also saw the appointment of new members to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Chris Dumbowski, a town meeting member with significant experience as a second-generation builder, was appointed as a full voting member, while Kevin Burwitch was named an alternate member. The board weighed the candidates’ qualifications, with Dumbowski’s extensive background in building regulations seen as a valuable asset.

Other agenda items included the acceptance of generous donations aimed at enhancing public spaces. The board approved memorial benches and in-kind contributions totaling $54,000, which will support various community projects, including improvements at Endicott Park. The board also discussed plans for community roundtable events to engage residents in discussions about topics such as recreation and economic development, scheduled for various dates throughout the summer.

Additionally, the board addressed town celebrations and closures, confirming the upcoming Juneteenth and Fourth of July observances, and the Falconfest event planned for June 24, with police coordination for street closures. The meeting concluded with discussions on noise complaints related to outdoor entertainment at Berry Tavern, and concerns about the lack of public engagement in the town’s hazardous mitigation plan, prompting a proposal for further discussion in the fall.