Authorities in a Somerset County town seeking help identifying those who scrawled antisemitic and racist graffiti on playground at a park.
The graffiti was found around midday Saturday at the park in the Warren Township municipal complex and reported to police, township administrator Mark Krane said Wednesday. It has since been removed.
“It is shocking that hateful images would be posted in such a public way, especially in an area that is utilized by our children,” township officials said in a statement. “A playground is meant to be a safe place for children to play without being confronted with hateful messages.”
Township officials had already planned to add surveillance cameras in the area prior to the vandalism, which included a swastika and a racial image. The cameras will be installed soon, Krane said.
“We do not tolerate antisemitism, racial, or any other hate crimes,” Mayor Gary DiNardo said. “This incident is unacceptable and we take it personally. The township committee will take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our residents, especially our children.”