A Lakewood resident has been charged following a reported bias harassment incident earlier this week.

Police say the investigation began on Tuesday, when officers responded to a residence on Clydebank Drive after receiving a report of harassment involving neighbors.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers spoke with the complainant, who reported that a neighbor had been directing derogatory and offensive remarks toward her as she walked past the residence.

Officers then made contact with the neighbor, identified as Sandra Eaton, 71, of Lakewood. According to police, Eaton allegedly continued making derogatory remarks while officers were present.

Following a review of the incident, authorities approved criminal charges. Eaton was charged with Bias Intimidation (2C:16-1A(1)), with the underlying offense of Harassment (2C:33-4A). She was served with a summons and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

Lakewood Police Chief Gregory Meyer addressed the incident in a statement, emphasizing the department’s commitment to maintaining a respectful and safe community.

“Lakewood is a diverse community where everyone deserves to feel safe and respected,” Meyer said. “Behavior that targets someone based on who they are has no place in our neighborhoods, and we will take appropriate action whenever incidents like this are reported.”