Apparent Cross Shape Burned Into Grass Investigated In Groveton

GROVETON, VA — Fairfax County Police are investigating a potential bias crime involving the shape of a cross burned into grass in Groveton.

Officers responded to the report in the 3400 block of Clayborne Avenue in Groveton on Tuesday. A homeowner notified officers of a patch of grass that appeared to be burned in the shape of a cross in a backyard. The images were shared on the police department blog.

Detective believe the incident happened in the last 15 days. The Fairfax County Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting in this investigation. Police did not reveal details about the impacted homeowner.

Virginia code does not specifically name a bias crime or hate crime as a violation of law but has enhanced penalties for assault and battery or vandalism when based on race, religion, color or national origin. Fairfax County Police Department policy identifies a bias crime as "any unlawful action committed against a person because of race, religious conviction, ethnic/national origin, disability, and/or sexual orientation."

"As a County, any form of hate is unwelcome," the police department stated. "As a police department, our goal is to ensure we document any Bias Crime or Bias Incident, conduct a thorough investigation, and provide the necessary support and resources available to all impacted."

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) released a statement condemning the incident. CAIR national communications director Ibrahim Hooper noted cross burning is historically associated with the Ku Klux Klan.

"This apparent act of racist hate and intimidation must be taken seriously and the perpetrator brought to justice," stated Hooper. "There must be no room in our society for the anti-Black racism and white supremacy that cross burnings have historically represented."

Anyone with information about the Groveton incident can contact the Mount Vernon Police station at 703-360-8400 or submit a tip through Crime Solvers. Those who witness or experiences a bias crime can contact 911 for in-progress incidents or the non-emergency number at 703-691-2131.