Somerville Teen Defaced Tufts With Nazi Graffiti, Police Say

Police say they have found the juvenile responsible for spray painting swastikas and other hateful graffiti on or nearby Tufts University during November and December of 2014.

A 17-year-old Somerville male, whose name authorities won’t release due to his underage status, has been charged with two counts of vandalizing property, property damage to intimidate, and four counts of defacing property. The alleged wayward teen was arraigned at Cambridge District Court on Monday.

“These symbols and words have no place in a civilized society,” said District Attorney Marian Ryan, in a statement. “Middlesex County is enriched by the diversity of its population and our efforts are focused on ending such displays of prejudice and continuing to develop a climate of tolerance.”

Cell phone records were crucial in police efforts to track the suspect down, authorities say.