Hate Crime Blamed For $100K Worth Of Annapolis Church Damage

ANNAPOLIS, MD — County police said an Annapolis church was vandalized recently, causing $100,000 in damage.

Officers released information about the "burglary / hate crime" at Fowler United Methodist Church on Friday. Authorities said they were first called to the church, 816 Bestgate Road, on June 9 around 9 a.m.

Photos posted in The BayNet show a cross torn off the wall and ripped Bible pages thrown across the floor. Musical instruments and electronic devices were also damaged, WBAL reported.

"There was a broken window, there was debris scattered everywhere, and they believe this was motivated by bias against either their church or the congregants," police spokesman Marc Limansky told WBAL.

The Anne Arundel County Police Department is still investigating. Officers have not mentioned any suspect leads.

Detectives asked anybody with information to call (410) 222-1960. Tipsters can stay anonymous by dialing (410) 222-4700.

To see pictures of the damage, visit The BayNet. For reactions from the parish, read WBAL's story.

Residents can learn how to donate to the church at this link.

This map shows where the church is located.