'Greatly Upsetting': Swastikas Found At Smithtown HS East

ST. JAMES, NY — Two swastikas were found drawn on a student's desk at Smithtown High School East, Suffolk police said.

The swastikas, drawn in pencil, were reported at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, police said. Suffolk County Police Hate Crimes Unit detectives are investigating. Smithtown High School East is at 10 School St., St. James.

"This news is greatly upsetting, but it is important for our school community to be made aware of such incidents and work collaboratively to oppose hate whenever it occurs," Superintendent Mark Secaur told the community in a letter. "Antisemitism has no place in our schools or community and will not be tolerated."

The district notified Suffolk police "immediately" after becoming aware of the swastikas, Secaur said. Officers arrived promptly, took a report, and will investigate.

"Should we identify the person responsible for this incident, strict disciplinary action will ensue and criminal charges will be recommended," Secaur said. "As I have stated repeatedly in past communications, we have a moral and legal obligation to provide a safe, supportive environment for all of our students."

Secaur asked parents and guardians to speak with their children about the "seriousness and likely consequences" of hateful graffiti and encourage them to make good decisions that respect "every student's right to attend school in a safe and supportive environment."

"With your cooperation and collaboration, we can help create the environment we all want for our children to thrive," Secaur said.

Antisemitic and anti-Black graffiti were also found at Commack High School on Tuesday, police said. Graffiti had also been reported at the school on Nov. 6.