Justice Department Opens Civil Rights Probe After Vandalism at California Catholic School
LONG BEACH, Calif. — The U.S. Department of Justice has initiated a civil rights investigation following a brazen act of vandalism at Holy Innocents Catholic School in Long Beach, California. The incident, which caused an estimated $100,000 in damages, involved the destruction of religious statues, defacement of sacred images, and other disturbing acts that have deeply unsettled the local community.
The school’s assembly hall, chapel, and classrooms were forcibly entered, according to officials, who described the scene as one of significant desecration. Statues of Mary and other religious figures were smashed, and a photograph of the pope was knocked to the floor. In addition to the physical destruction, vandals left behind partially consumed food and drinks, as well as evidence of defecation on the school grounds. Authorities are now analyzing DNA samples collected from the site in hopes of identifying the perpetrators.
Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon announced the probe on social media, emphasizing the Department of Justice’s commitment to investigating crimes that infringe upon religious freedoms. “The Civil Rights Division will open an investigation into this awful crime,” Dhillon stated.
The investigation aligns with the Department’s broader mandate to protect civil rights under federal law, particularly those involving religious institutions. The Federal Bureau of Investigation often partners with the Civil Rights Division in such probes, ensuring a comprehensive approach to hate crimes and acts of vandalism targeting faith-based organizations.
Local law enforcement agencies are also actively involved in the inquiry. The Long Beach Police Department has been collecting forensic evidence from the scene and is coordinating with federal authorities. The vandalism has sparked outrage among residents and religious leaders, who have condemned the attack as not only a property crime but an assault on the community’s values and beliefs.
Incidents of vandalism against religious institutions have drawn increasing attention nationwide, prompting federal and state agencies to enhance protective measures. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency offers resources aimed at safeguarding places of worship, highlighting the importance of vigilance and community cooperation.
Holy Innocents Catholic School, known for its commitment to education and faith formation, is now assessing the full extent of the damage and working to restore the affected areas. School officials have expressed gratitude for the swift response from law enforcement and the Department of Justice, hoping that the investigation will lead to accountability and deter future offenses.
As the probe continues, authorities urge anyone with information related to the vandalism to come forward. The Department of Justice’s involvement underscores the seriousness with which the federal government treats violations of civil rights and the protection of religious freedoms in the United States.
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