Sister of deadly stabbing victim raises security concerns at New Haven library
The sister of a man who was fatally stabbed on the New Haven Green in Connecticut is calling for increased security, staffing, and resources at the New Haven Free Public Library after police say an argument that began inside the library escalated.
Police said 37-year-old Michael Spencer was stabbed on August 12 after he asked another person to turn down their music inside the library, according to his sister, Chevanne Spencer. New Haven police said library security asked both people to leave the building before the stabbing on the Green.
“That request should have never cost him his life,” Spencer said.
Police got a warrant for 49-year-old Carlos Marrero on a charge of murder. He had already been in custody since last Tuesday on unrelated charges.
“An arrest cannot undo what was done to my brother,” Spencer said.
Spencer said she worked at the library for two years and saw firsthand how quickly situations involving patrons could escalate. She said she left last year in part because of safety concerns.
“I saw coworkers assaulted. I experienced harassment myself. I ultimately left in part because I did not feel safe there,” Spencer said.
Spencer is now calling on the city to take additional steps to protect library patrons and employees.
“The city also has to take the responsibility to ensure that there is adequate staffing, security, and resources and policies in place,” Spencer said.
Mayor Justin Elicker said in a statement that the city has received feedback from library workers and increased police presence in response. Elicker said officers regularly walk through the library to supplement security guards, but the city does not have the capacity to station an officer there full time. He said the goal is to ensure the library remains welcoming and safe for everyone.
NBC Connecticut reached out to the library director about the security concerns but has not heard back at this time.
The library’s code of conduct says library privileges are immediately suspended for anyone who harasses or attacks patrons or staff.
City alders also said they are determined to address security concerns at the library.
“I know the trauma that librarians have faced, and it should be a beautiful place of meditation, of thinking, of learning,” Alder Christine Kim said.
Spencer said what happened to her brother should not happen to anyone else who goes to the library.
“He should have been able to walk into the library, use the resources, and return home safely. Instead, our family is preparing to bury him,” Spencer said.
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