Police are investigating a bias incident after a swastika was found carved into a sidewalk on Brent Avenue in Wantagh, just days after the same symbol was found spray painted on an Oceanside sidewalk. The symbol, unambiguously associated with anti-Semitism, was discovered by a 52-year-old homeowner on Brent Avenue and reported to law enforcement.
Town of Hempstead Supervisor Laura Gillen, in a statement, assured that the First Precinct will increase patrols in the Wantagh area following the incident. She further encouraged anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 800-244-8477, noting that, “our office works with local community members and law enforcement to help bring the perpetrators to justice.”
“In response to the unfortunate and extremely disturbing swastikas recently defacing our town, we must send a strong message that there is simply no room in the Town of Hempstead for anti-Semitism, racism or any hate-based crimes,” Gillen said.
