HATFIELD — Since moving to Hatfield in summer 2021, Dr. Timothy Mentz has made his views known on a variety of topics, including his first year at a Board of Health meeting as a means to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. He campaigned for a seat on the Board of Health the following year and placed Black Lives Matter signs and various other political signs at the end of his driveway.
But during his first campaign for the Board of Health in 2022, he dealt with what he called an unpleasant neighbor on Bridge Street, despite sending promotional emails that the person clearly opposed. It wasn’t until last year that I got it. The first anonymous letter came in the mail when I posted to the board of health and posted a sign advocating for passage of the repeal of the town’s Proposition 2 1/2 to support Hatfield’s education and other services. It has arrived.
The letter, a typed note in an envelope with no return address, told Mentz and his family to “go back to where they came from,” asked “Are you trying to change town?” and “What are you doing?” I don’t know either.” he asked. What is Hatfield? ”
“It was a little uncomfortable,” Mentz said.
At about the same time, trash was thrown into the driveway, including a bag of dog feces, presumably to supplement the letter.
“I was really a little sad,” Mentz said, explaining that she turned the letter over and reported the incident to Hatfield police.
Now in the midst of his presidential campaign and show of support for Vice President Kamala Harris, he sent a nearly identical reply last Monday calling Mentz and his wife, Tania, “liberal socialists.” Another letter arrived, typed out. We don’t want your kind here,” the letter reads.
These actions have caused concern for Mr. Mentz and his family, including his four children.
Lt. Clinton Phillips confirmed the department received the letter and the latest remains and is investigating. Phillips noted that there were no threats of harm or violence against the Mentz family.
“Hatfield Police will continue to investigate the incident at this time due to the harassing nature of the letter received,” Phillips said.
Phillips said the contents of the letter were an expression of displeasure with another’s political views and that “the senders don’t want that in their town, which is the sender’s political views.” added.
Theft and vandalism of political signs is a common occurrence before elections, and on Elm Street, various handmade signs placed inside pumpkins in support of Ms. Harris included “obviously” and “revealing” signs in some of the displays. It has been covered in spray paint with the words ‘Champ’ written on it.
Diana Shinal, chair of the select committee, said Hatfield is a welcoming community where people feel comfortable expressing their beliefs.
“I was completely surprised by the behavior,” Sainal said. “I don’t think that represents Hatfield at all.”
Mentz said he is concerned that letters and inappropriate responses to political expression will continue leading up to the presidential election and, depending on the outcome, beyond. Despite their concerns, the family remains undeterred, informing others via social media, and the contents of the latest anonymous letter are now displayed on pro-Harris political billboards.
