Cambridge residents upset about local apartment complex being fenced in

CAMBRIDGE, Md. – Residents of the Altair Apartment complex have become the center of controversy. They said they were locked in the property, unable to get out.

Renters recieved with a memo from the Mayor’s Office, Cambridge Police, and State Police, explaining the fencing was in preparation for the annual celebration. Chief of Police Justin Todd said he expected a crowd. “We were expecting a party, a ‘freaknik’ event happening on the 500 block of Greenwood.”

However, Mayor Lajan Cephas said the gate being blocked was an error. She said she never spoke with the management company to approve a move like this.

“We never were in any discussions with the apartment management company, authorizing that it is a very severe safety issue.”

Residents like Mel Hopkins claim they weren’t able to leave their own homes for several days. “They said they can’t leave the premises from Friday to Tuesday. Imagine not being able to leave a place you pay for, from Friday to Tuesday.”

Hopkins was involved in organizing the event this year, and wants to revive the neighborhood. “I remember growing up, we didn’t use to have these fences stretched from side to side, we had apple trees.”

Mayor Cephas has made it clear – to hold them accountable. “I think it’s despicable of the Altair property management chaining these residents in their communities. There is no excuse and there will be accountability, and I’m working for that to happen.”

WMDT asked management for comment, and they declined.