8-01-2023 9:46pm

Reports of swastikas discovered at multiple playgrounds in Long Island have surfaced. Authorities are investigating the incidents and working to address this troubling situation.

Samantha Hespos Editor

Long Island police are actively seeking the individuals responsible for vandalizing playground equipment at a park and an elementary school with antisemitic graffiti. They are committed to apprehending those involved and ensuring the safety of the community.

As reported by the Rockaway Nassau Safety Patrol (RNSP), the initial incident took place on the night of Sunday, July 23, at Andrew J. Parise Park in Cedarhurst. Authorities are closely investigating the matter to apprehend those responsible for this concerning act.

During their investigation, officers found that swastikas had been etched into a plastic piece of play equipment. Unfortunately, a similar incident occurred again on Sunday, July 30, around 9 a.m.

Authorities are intensifying their efforts to apprehend the culprits and prevent further acts of vandalism.

Nassau County Police detectives responded to the playground at Chatterton School, situated at 108 Merrick Avenue in Merrick, to conduct their investigation.

At the Chatterton School playground, detectives reported discovering two black swastikas, approximately one foot tall and one foot across, spray-painted on the playground equipment. The authorities are treating this incident with utmost seriousness and are determined to identify the responsible parties.

Assemblyman Eric "Ari" Brown, who previously collaborated with RNSP in a video condemning the Cashmere bias incident, also addressed the one in Merrick on his Facebook page, expressing his concern and commitment to standing against such acts of hate and vandalism.

Almost a month earlier, a similar incident occurred in Woodmere, sparking outrage among citizens and drawing the attention of Congressman Anthony P. D'Esposito, who expressed his strong disapproval of such hateful acts in the community.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the bias incident in Merrick and urge anyone with information about the crime to come forward by contacting the Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS or calling 911. Public cooperation is essential in ensuring justice and community safety.

Furthermore, the Rockaway Nassau Safety Patrol (RNSP) is also accepting information related to the incident through their hotline at 516-858-7300. Public assistance is crucial in aiding the ongoing investigation and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.

Rest assured that all calls will be kept completely anonymous. The authorities and the Rockaway Nassau Safety Patrol (RNSP) value confidentiality and respect the privacy of those providing information in the investigation.