Juvenile ID'd In Swastika Vandalism Investigation: Greenwich Police

GREENWICH, CT — The Greenwich Police Department announced Monday it has identified the person responsible for swastika vandalism that was recently discovered at Old Greenwich School.

"The juvenile and his family are cooperating with detectives at this time," police said in a news release. "Preliminary investigation indicates this act of vandalism was performed without any thought to how this symbol affects others or the pain it may bring."

Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones sent an email to OGS families with the update Monday, and said the district has confirmed the student does not attend Greenwich Public Schools.

"We have also been told that there will be appropriate consequences by the GPD," Jones said. "We thank the entire Old Greenwich community for their cooperation in assisting to identify this child and for having age-appropriate conversations with their children regarding antisemitism and hate of any kind to promote kindness and tolerance for everyone."

Police said an investigation will remain open until the completion of delinquency proceedings.

On March 25, it was discovered that the staircase by the gym entrance had been vandalized and a swastika had been etched into the walkway, Jones said in a letter to families that day.

The GPD was contacted and, together with GPS’ Safety & Security Department, started an investigation, Jones said.

The district originally said security footage showed two female student-aged individuals committed the acts on the evening of March 25, but the individuals were misidentified.

In their news release Monday, police encouraged parents to "engage in age-appropriate discussions with their children about antisemitism and hate, fostering a culture of kindness and tolerance towards others."

Information on having these discussions can be found by visiting the Anti-Defamation League website at ADL.org.

"The Greenwich Police Department understands the fear and anger caused by acts of vandalism like this in the community," police said. "The department investigates crimes, especially those related to hate and bias, to the fullest extent and endeavors to provide superior law enforcement to all."