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Windham Residents Report Harassment Amid Development Dispute

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. -report-harassment-amid-development-dispute.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Saturday, April 4th 2026 at 12:19 GMT by Eagle-Tribune
      Locale: UNITED STATES

WINDPAM, NH - April 4th, 2026 - A second Windham resident has come forward alleging harassment and intimidation following public opposition to a controversial development project, fueling concerns about a potential pattern of silencing dissenting voices within the town. Robert Wasko's claims echo those made last week by Joseph Fiore, who reported receiving a barrage of harassing phone calls after voicing concerns about Town Council member Michael DiBattista.

Robert Wasko, a long-time Windham resident, detailed his experience to local media, stating he began receiving unwanted phone calls and unannounced visits to his home shortly after publicly expressing his opposition to the proposed 'Willow Creek Estates' development. The project, slated to build 150 new homes on a previously undeveloped parcel of land bordering the Powder Mill Ledge Conservation Area, has become a focal point of contention within Windham, with opponents raising concerns about increased traffic, strain on local resources, and potential environmental impact.

"It started subtly - a wrong number here, a hang-up call there," Wasko explained. "But it quickly escalated to multiple calls a day, sometimes late at night. Then came the visits. People would just...show up. They didn't say anything, just stood there, watching the house. It felt like a clear attempt to intimidate me into silence. It's deeply unsettling."

Fiore, who first brought the issue to light, had similarly described being bombarded with harassing phone calls following his public questioning of DiBattista's involvement with a land acquisition company potentially benefiting from the Willow Creek Estates project. Fiore had raised questions during a Town Council meeting regarding potential conflicts of interest and the transparency of the approval process. He alleges the calls intensified after this public forum.

Both men emphasize they are not simply disgruntled citizens but concerned residents deeply invested in the future of Windham. They believe the harassment is a deliberate tactic to discourage public participation in local government and stifle legitimate concerns about development.

"This isn't about being 'anti-development'," Wasko clarified. "It's about responsible development. We want to ensure any new projects benefit the entire community, not just a select few. When people are afraid to speak up, that process breaks down."

Windham Police Chief Robert Brown confirmed that the department is actively investigating the allegations made by both Wasko and Fiore. "We are taking these claims extremely seriously," Chief Brown stated in a press release. "The right to express one's opinion without fear of intimidation or harassment is fundamental to our democracy. We are committed to thoroughly investigating these incidents and holding those responsible accountable." Brown also noted that the department is increasing patrols in the areas where the alleged harassment occurred and encouraging anyone experiencing similar issues to come forward.

The Windham Town Council has remained largely silent on the matter, issuing a brief statement acknowledging the allegations and reaffirming their commitment to a transparent and open government. However, critics argue the council needs to take a more proactive stance, condemning the alleged harassment and initiating an independent investigation into potential conflicts of interest surrounding the Willow Creek Estates project.

Local legal experts suggest that the alleged actions could constitute several criminal offenses, including harassment, stalking, and potentially even criminal intimidation, depending on the specifics of the incidents and the intent of the perpetrators. Both Fiore and Wasko have indicated they are actively exploring legal options, including seeking restraining orders and pursuing civil lawsuits.

The situation in Windham is mirroring a growing trend across the country, where increasing polarization and contentious local issues are leading to more frequent reports of intimidation and harassment targeting individuals involved in civic engagement. Experts warn this chilling effect on public participation poses a significant threat to the health of local democracy. The Willow Creek Estates project, originally presented as a boon to Windham's tax base, is now increasingly viewed as a symbol of potential overreach and a warning sign for the future of civic discourse in the town. Residents are now calling for a town hall meeting dedicated to addressing these concerns and fostering a more respectful and inclusive environment for public debate.