The scene at Sergeant Bryan Bangs home after it was set on fire in July.
ITHACA -- The City of Ithaca Police Department is trying to dispel rumors that it is trying to take down a Facebook page supporting Sergeant Bryan Bangs.
Deputy Police Chief John Barber says "it's not true." He says the city "understands the First Amendment right" of free speech.
On February 23rd, officer Bangs fatally shot drug suspect Shawn Greenwood as Greenwood allegedly drove his van into a Dryden police officer.
On July 1st, a Tompkins County grand jury reviewed the case and determined there was no basis for criminal charges against Sergeant Bangs. The jury's findings created a controversy in Ithaca among those who felt Bangs was wrong.
After the jury's ruling, Bangs' Dryden home was set on fire while he was inside. He escaped without injury. An investigation looking into arson and attempted murder charges against whoever torched the house continues.
Since the fire, there has been an outpouring of support for Bangs, including the Facebook page, "I support Ithaca Police Sergeant Bangs."
Lately, Facebook users have posted on site that the police chief and Ithaca mayor have tried to remove the page.
Barber says there is concern that comments on the site could compromise the investigation into the suspected arson. He would not comment on whether the police department informed rank and file officers of those concerns.
Barber says the police department, "strongly supports Sergeant Bangs and we are with him every step of the way."
At Ithaca Commons, CNY Central's Jim Kenyon asked people about the incidents and found them to be sharply divided. Larry Hardesty supported Sergeant Bangs actions. "I think it's totally wrong what they did to the officer's house. He was doing his job."
Masha Starks says he knew Shawn Greenwood well. "Officers should not be shooting to kill... He was a nice guy."
Michael Hughes says he's troubled over what the incidents are doing to Ithaca. "I sure there is going to be tension around town until something breaks on this case."
State Police are handling the investigation into the arson and attempted murder of Sergeant Bangs, but so far no one has been charged.
