Swastika Graffiti Found In Several Locations In Los Gatos

LOS GATOS, CA — Swastika graffiti was found in three locations in Los Gatos last month, according to the Los Gatos Police Department.

The hate symbols were removed from the Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center, Los Gatos Garden Apartments and Blossom Hill Pavilion, the town said in a news release. Police are investigating the incidents, which have also been reported to the Anti-Defamation League and Secure Communities Network.

“There is no place in Los Gatos for hate motivated conduct of any kind,” Mayor Marico Sayoc said in a news release. “Everyone has the right to feel safe and welcome in our community.”

The town announced plans for activities intended to unite the community during United Against Hate Week from Nov. 14 to 20 in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Los Gatos, the Los Gatos Union School District, Jewish Silicon Valley and the Los Gatos Clergy Association.

“The sight of swastikas is painful for our local Holocaust survivors and others in the Jewish community, particularly in the midst of a growing national trend of increasing acts of hatred and violence towards Jewish people,” said Lael Gray, CEO of Jewish Silicon Valley.

Stephen Parsons, President of the Los Gatos Union School District Board of Trustees, also condemned the crimes.

“The Los Gatos Union School District stands against all hate activities,” Parsons said. “Our highest priority is to advocate for and provide an inclusive and respectful educational environment for all our students.”