2 People Wanted For Act Of Vandalism At Brentwood Mosque

BRENTWOOD, NY — Suffolk police are looking for two people who burned a religious flag and painted graffiti on the flag base at a Brentwood mosque this week.

The duo entered a fenced-in area at the Islamic Center of Suffolk County at 124 3rd Street on May 18 at 2 a.m. when they burned the flag and painted the graffiti.

Police did not provide a description or photos of the people involved, but did state that they are offering a fast-cash reward of $2,000 for information that leads to an arrest in this case.

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) released a statement condemning the act of vandalism.

According to the group, the people burned the Alam, a red and white flag that symbolizes peace and justice in the Shia faith tradition. The flag was replaced after the incident.

"A bias-motivated attack on any place of worship is abhorrent and must be condemned by local and state officials," Ahmed Mohamed, CAIR-NY Legal Director, said. "The burning of a religious artifact, the Alam, and the pro-Trump, white supremacist graffiti is disgusting. This hate crime must be swiftly investigated and the suspects brought to justice."

The group claims this is the fourth hate crime targeting Shah-E-Najaf mosque since 2007.

Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-800-220-TIPS, using a mobile app which can be downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com.

All calls, text messages and emails will be kept confidential.