Historic Santa Cruz Mission Vandalized; Suspect Sought By Police

SANTA CRUZ, CA — The Santa Cruz Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying a vandal who struck the historic Mission Santa Cruz and a memorial plaque inside Mission Plaza Park.

The person, pictured above, was part of a group that police say vandalized the area amid a Wednesday evening protest in the City of Santa Cruz. The group used red spray paint to write phrases and slogans.

As protesters marched, the group hung around Emmet and High streets, near Mission Plaza Park and Holy Cross Church.

Mission Santa Cruz was founded in 1791, according to Missions California. The chapel is a replica of the original.

Anyone with information is asked to call investigators at 831-420-5820.