An Imperial Beach home that was vandalized last weekend with hate symbols and antisemitic graffiti was tagged again Saturday, along with several additional areas nearby, authorities said.
Deputies from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office responded to two separate cases involving hate symbols and antisemitic graffiti on Sept. 13, according to Lt. Chris Galve. In the first incident, just after 2:30 p.m., a hate symbol and antisemitic writing were found on the exterior of a home in the 100 block of Elm Avenue. Later that day, a second report was received from the 700 block of Seacoast Drive, where similar graffiti was drawn on the window of a residence.
Both incidents involved what deputies say appeared to be black permanent marker.
Nearly one week later, just after 10 a.m. Saturday, deputies were called back to the same home on Elm Avenue. The victim reported additional hate-related graffiti on the garage door marked with what appeared to be a black permanent marker.
During their investigation, deputies discovered several other similarly vandalized areas in the alley behind the residence, also marked with what appeared to be a black permanent marker, authorities said.
No suspects had been identified and no arrests have been made as of Saturday afternoon.
“The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office does not tolerate hate. We understand how distressing these incidents are for victims and for the community,” Galve said. “Our commitment is to ensure residents feel safe, supported, and heard as we work diligently to find those responsible and hold them accountable. These acts are hurtful, unacceptable, and do not reflect the values of Imperial Beach or San Diego County.”
Detectives from the sheriff’s Imperial Beach substation were conducting follow-up interviews Saturday, canvassing affected areas and gathering evidence. The sheriff’s Criminal Intelligence Unit, which assists with cases involving domestic extremism and hate groups, was also supporting the investigation.
“Residents will see an increased patrol presence in the affected neighborhoods as deputies work to deter further incidents and reassure the community,” Galve said. “As a reminder, if you see something, say something. The Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Hate Crimes Unit.”
The SDSO is also coordinating with local community organizations and the city of Imperial Beach to ensure victims and affected families have access to resources and support.
“We ask for the public’s assistance. If you witnessed suspicious activity or have any information, no matter how small, it may be helpful to investigators,” Galve said. “Please contact the sheriff’s Imperial Beach substation or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers. Community involvement is crucial in identifying those responsible and preventing future incidents.”
Anyone with information regarding the vandalism was urged to contact officials at 858-868-3200. Anonymous tips can be directed to San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
