In a concerning incident at Georgetown University, two acts of vandalism targeting religious symbols are under investigation.
The incidents involve damage to a crucifix and the displacement of a statue, leading the Georgetown University Police Department to treat them as potential hate crimes.
Investigation of Potential Hate Crimes
Georgetown University staff and students were informed of these troubling events through a joint letter from Vice President for Mission and Ministry, Father Mark Bosco, and Associate Vice President of Public Safety, Jay Gruber.
They expressed deep concern over the anti-Catholic acts, emphasizing that such vandalism has no place within the university community.
What Happened?
The events occurred on Friday, August 30th.
The first incident involved a large processional crucifix in the Dahlgren Chapel of the Sacred Heart, which was reportedly moved and damaged after being placed against a door.
Later that morning, staff discovered that a statue of the Blessed Mother, located by the Heyden Observatory and Gardens, had been displaced and was found lying on the ground.
Unknown Suspects and Motive
At this point, the university does not know who is responsible for these acts or their motivations.
The investigation is ongoing, and after reviewing surveillance footage, police identified a light-complexioned male wearing a dark hoodie and pants entering the chapel around 11:40 p.m. the night before.
However, it is still unclear if this individual is connected to the incidents or if they are related to other irregularities reported in recent weeks.
Response and Call for Information
Despite these events, all services at Dahlgren Chapel will continue as scheduled.
In the meantime, police are increasing patrols around religious spaces on campus to ensure security.
The university has also encouraged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the Georgetown Police Department.
This situation is still unfolding, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
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