Racist graffiti in Montgomery neighborhood a possible hate crime: ‘I am enraged,’ lawmaker says

By Carol Robinson

Vandalism in a Montgomery neighborhood over the weekend is being investigated as a hate crime.

Montgomery police were dispatched at 6:40 a.m. Saturday to the 4300 block of Richardson Road, which is in Dannelly Pines community, said Maj. Saba Coleman. Officers responded on a report of damage to property, she said.

“We are aware of this incident, and we will work with the victims and community members to prosecute those responsible for this cowardly act to the fullest extent of the law,” Mayor Steven Reed said.

“This is not emblematic of Montgomery and we will move forward as we always have — together — regardless of race, religion, neighborhood and creed.”

State Rep. Phillip Ensler shared on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, photos of some of the damage, which included a Nazi swastika painted on a house, and racial slurs painted on vehicles.

“I am enraged by the white supremacist, racist images and words spray painted on personal, private property of Black residents in the Dannelly Pines area,’’ wrote Ensler, who in November became the first Jewish candidate to win a seat in Montgomery in nearly 50 years.

“I unequivocally stand against all crimes, acts, words, and displays of hate,’’ Ensler wrote. “I recognize the pain and anger this is causing so many in our community and I stand with them. I look forward to and appreciate law enforcement swiftly and thoroughly investigating. The culprit must be held accountable.”

Coleman said the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been announced.

“We are looking at the act as a hate crimes violation and will complete a thorough report with all pertinent facts for presentation to our federal partners,’’ she said.

This post was originally published on this site