Riverside County Investigates Temecula, California, Church Vandalism as Hate Crime

Riverside County authorities are now investigating last month’s vandalism at Temecula United Methodist Church as a hate crime, NBC Los Angeles learned Tuesday. The investigation began on Oct. 27, when a swastika was found on a wall of the church. The discovery came days after the church community celebrated the annual Temecula Valley Pride festival.

Pastor Drew Davis also reported that the church’s American flag and its inclusionary flag were stolen. The source material does not say when those flags were taken or whether they have been recovered.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department had initially said the case did not appear to be a hate crime. As of Tuesday, no suspects had been arrested, and the investigation remained active and ongoing.

Justin Daley, president of Temecula Valley Pride, spoke about the incident last week. “I don’t know how a swastika cannot be perceived as a hate crime. It tells the story itself,” he said. “Sadness whenever you see hate or hate signs on the church property. It’s disappointing and discouraging given that our event was a beacon of hope for the community.”

Davis said the church community would continue to pursue its mission of hope and inclusivity while tightening security around the property. He also addressed the person responsible: “To the person that did this, they are still loved.” Responding to hostility with neighbor-love is a lesson in peacemaking (Romans 12:18).

Davis said the church is taking the matter seriously and is moving forward with plans to hold a Transgender Day of Remembrance later this month.