Suffolk County investigates hate graffiti at new mosque site

Suffolk County police are investigating an act of vandalism at the construction site of the Islamic Center of Mastic-Shirley in Shirley, Long Island. Authorities reported that a hateful message was spray-painted on a banner at the site, which was discovered on a Saturday afternoon. The incident is believed to have occurred between Friday evening and Saturday morning.

The project, which broke ground in June, is expected to become the second-largest Islamic center on Long Island. The 34,000-square-foot facility is intended to serve the broader community with amenities such as a food pantry and a basketball court. Imam Mehdad Islam stated that while the graffiti is disappointing, the community will not be intimidated and will continue with the construction.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine condemned the act, stating that religious intolerance and hate will not be accepted in the county. The Suffolk County Police Department’s Hate Crimes Unit is leading the investigation. Local officials, including New York State Assembly Deputy Speaker Phil Ramos, also issued statements condemning the vandalism as an act of intimidation directed at the faith community.