Mount Jefferson Park Area… Police: "Instilling Fear and Hate Will Not Be Tolerated," Seeking Tips
Police have launched an investigation after hate-fueled graffiti targeting immigrants was repeatedly found along a popular park trail in Alexandria, Virginia.
The Alexandria Police Department announced that it is searching for the suspect(s) who left illegal graffiti at multiple locations along the Mount Jefferson Park trail, urging residents to come forward with any information.
According to police, the crime is believed to have occurred between 11:00 p.m. on Friday the 23rd and 6:30 a.m. on Saturday the 24th. The graffiti was confirmed to include "ICE," standing for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the phrase "REPORT TO DEPORT," and even the actual tip line phone number for the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Alexandria Police Chief Tarrick McGuire strongly condemned the acts in a statement, saying, "Actions intended to instill fear or target specific members of our community have no place in Alexandria. Every resident deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported."
Investigation teams are currently canvassing residents living near the crime scenes while focusing on analyzing nearby surveillance (CCTV) footage.
Police authorities have requested residents in the 100 and 200 blocks of Clifford Avenue and the 3000 block of Manning Street to submit any dashcam or security camera footage recorded that day through the police department's online evidence submission portal.
Anyone with information can contact Detective Kay of the Alexandria Police Department at 703-746-6263, and tipsters may remain anonymous.