Children, 12, 14, Charged In Hate Speech Vandalism Case: East Lyme PD

EAST LYME, CT — Last month, police found "racially and/or religiously offensive" graffiti in the McCook’s Point Park bathrooms. Police Chief Michael Finkelstein said that the discovery on April 12 found multiple instances of painted vandalism, some of which employed racist and offense language that the chief said were "offensive to multiple groups of individuals."

Photos shared with Patch by police, show the so-called graffiti includes language including "KKK," "Hitler was right," expletive laden racist slurs, and a large Swastika.

"This investigation involved the review of surveillance video, witness interviews and the examination of physical evidence," Finkelstein said. "As a result, a total of five juveniles were arrested and referred to juvenile court."

Three boys and two girls were allegedly involved, ages 12 to 14.

A boy, 14, was charged with two counts of intimidation based on bigotry/bias.

A boy, 14, was charged with third-degree criminal mischief.

A boy, 12, was charged with third-degree criminal mischief.

Two 14-year-old girls were charged with third-degree criminal mischief.

More arrests are expected, police say

Police said that the investigation however is ongoing and "This investigation continues and "additional arrests are anticipated."

The chief said the East Lyme Police Department has "zero tolerance towards any demonstration of speech or actions that discriminate against any part of our community."

"Any incident will be investigated to ensure that those who are responsible are held accountable," Finkelstein said, adding thanks to the "multiple witnesses that assisted with this investigation. We urge anyone observing suspicious activity to contact police."

Reach the East Lyme Police Department by phone at 860-739-5900.