NEW HAVEN–Police are investigating a series of vandalisms that occurred at some point over the last few days.
The athletic complex at Wilbur Cross High School in New Haven was secured around noon on Saturday, November 19, but the next time someone entered it on Monday they found graffiti all over the facility.
Swastikas and references to President-elect Donald Trump were tagged around the walls, lockers and other areas.
There’s no evidence of forced entry, so it is possible that a door to the facility was left open.
"The investigation of hate crimes and hate-motivated behavior as well as the apprehension of hate crime offenders is of paramount importance to the New Haven Police Department. In this case, there wasn’t a sole person or group that was targeted," police said in a statement. "The NHPD, therefore considers our community the victim in this crime."
Police are processing forensic evidence, but are asking anyone who saw something in the area or has information to call 203-946-6304. Calls can be kept confidential.
The school has already worked towards removing the graffiti. In a statement, the district said, "The graffiti was not visible from the street. Once discovered, district officials took all the necessary steps to ensure the graffiti was removed in all locations and to maintain the safe and calm school climate."
"When you promote hate, you do so against us all. We will do all that we can to find you out," New Haven police said.
The school district sent home a letter to parents, which said, in part:
In light of concerns and tension rising from the Election Day results, district leaders would like to reiterate our core values and outline our expectations during this time.
NHPS is a district of inclusion and we will continue to educate our students through our core values of collaboration, growth & innovation, equity.
The diversity of thought and culture in New Haven is what makes this district one of choice for many families and students across the city. That's why it is imperative that every member of this school community--whether parent, student, teacher or staff member--be respectful of their peers.
Right now, district leaders are working in collaboration with community organizations to ensure our schools remain inclusive spaces. With the support of these organizations, we plan to host information sessions to provide school staff, students, and parents with the tools needed to move forward. We are also encouraging principals and teachers to create safe places for students to discuss their ideas and opinions with their peers in a constructive and supportive manner.
During this time we encourage parents and students to review our anti-bullying policy as outlined in our 2016-17 Student Parent Handbook.
As families, students and staff members are dealing with the outcomes of this election, we encourage every member of this community to remain supportive, act with sensitivity and help maintain the safe environments that currently exist in all our schools.
