INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Deputies are asking the public for help in identifying a suspect filmed carrying what appears to be a spray paint can – possibly connected to the vandalism of two churches.
Indian River County deputies released three surveillance photos showing the suspect wearing a dark colored hoodie with a cloth covering his lower face, and dark shorts. One of the photos appears to depict the man walking with a white spray paint can in his right hand.
It was unclear if deputies were searching for other possible suspects. The incident unfolded the same week as the Easter Sunday holiday.
The morning of April 17, parishioners discovered profane words and crude drawings spray painted in black on church buildings and signs.
The two churches that fell victim to the graffiti were Lutheran Church of the Redeemer and Glendale Baptist Church. One message read “(expletive) God,” while another read, “(expletive) the system.”
A crudely drawn image of a phallic symbol was also spray painted on one of the church buildings.
The churches, located near each other on 27th Avenue, repainted shortly after the discovery. Lutheran Church of the Redeemer has been in operation for more than 100 years, church officials said.
Deputies reviewed surveillance footage at one of the churches.
Indian River County sheriff’s spokesman Maj. Eric Flowers said juveniles are more than likely connected to both vandalism incidents. Anyone who knows the identity of the suspect in the photos should contact sheriff’s public safety dispatch at 772-978-6240.
Callers can remain anonymous by contacting Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-800-273-TIPS or tcwatch.org. Callers can possibly be eligible for a cash reward.
Photos provided by Indian River County Sheriff’s Office
