Suffolk Police Investigating Graffiti At Islamic Center In Mastic As Hate Crime

SHIRLEY, NY — Detectives from Suffolk's Hate Crimes Unit are investigating after graffiti was found at a construction site for the Islamic Center of Mastic-Shirley on Saturday, a police spokesperson said.

The graffiti was found on a banner located at the future site of the center, which is on William Floyd Parkway, according to police.

It was reported by a 911 caller on Sunday at around 3:45 p.m., police said.

The department's Hate Crimes Unit is actively investigating, and increased patrols will continue at the site on William Floyd Parkway, and at houses of worship throughout the county, according to police.

Police are pursuing all leads, said County Executive Ed Romaine, who joined the community in a rally on Monday.

"Hate has no place" in Suffolk, he said.

At the construction site, piles of dirt can be seen from workers digging the foundation. Once complete, the site will give way to a mosque, community center, and parking lot.

It is cordoned off with fencing that features several American flags and several banners with the words, "New Mosque, coming soon! Where faith and community come together."

One of the leaders of the mosque, Imam Mehdad Islam, told Newsday he was disappointed by the graffiti, but not deterred in moving forward, adding. "We’re not being intimidated. We’re doing the right thing. We’re going to continue building."

A fast cash reward is available from Crime Stoppers for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call its confidential tip line at 1-800-220-TIPS.

"People in Suffolk County should be able to practice their faith freely and safely, and the department is focused on apprehending the person or people responsible," the police department said in a statement.