An Imperial Beach home that was vandalized earlier this month with hate symbols and antisemitic graffiti was tagged again last weekend, along with several additional areas nearby, authorities said.
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Sheriff’s deputies received reports about 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 on Elm Avenue near Seacoast Drive. Later that day, a second report was received from Seacoast Drive a few blocks north, where similar graffiti was drawn on the window of a home.
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, authorities said.
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.”
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Detectives conducted 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 Sheriff’s Office 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.
Anyone with information regarding the vandalism was urged to contact deputies at 858-868-3200. Anonymous tips can be directed to San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
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