Swastika Graffiti, Unlawful Filming Reported In PWCS Bathrooms

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — Authorities are investigating reports of unlawful filming and swastika graffiti in Prince William County high school bathrooms. The unlawful filming was reported at Hylton High School on Nov. 20, while the graffiti was discovered on Thursday at Forest Park High School.

One student, a 15-year-old boy, has been charged with unlawful filming. His court date is pending and he is being held at the Prince William County Juvenile Detention Center, authorities said.

No suspects have been identified in connection with the swastika graffiti.

The unlawful filming incident occurred on Nov. 20 at Hylton High School. Investigators said a 15-year-old boy took an inappropriate photo of another male student in a bathroom. The suspect later posted the inappropriate photo on social media.

Another student reported the photo to a teacher, which led the school resource officer to open an investigation. On Dec. 4, officers completed the investigation and charged the suspect.

On Thursday, security at Forest Park High School contacted the school resource officer to investigate vandalism in the bathroom.

"The investigation revealed swastikas and other graffiti were drawn on the wall of a bathroom stall inside the school," the police department said in a report. "The drawings did not appear to contain any threats to students, faculty, or staff."

School personnel removed the graffiti.

Anyone with more information about the vandalism can contact the Prince William County Police Department at 703-792-7000. Tips can also be submitted online.

The Anti-Defamation League maintains a running tracker that catalogs antisemitic incidents of harassment, threats and vandalism. In 2023, the tracker has recorded 49 incidents around Virginia, including one in Manassas.