Graffiti on Marion golf course not a hate crime despite swastika, according to police

MARION, Iowa — Vandalism at a golf course in Marion is not currently classified as a hate crime, even though the symbol includes a swastika.

Marion police said that on the night of August 18, a group of individuals vandalized the Hunters Ridge Golf Course and a nearby residence. They spray-painted messages directed at a course employee and left a swastika on the number 1 tee box and the number 18 green. The vandalism at the residence consisted of a vulgar word spray-painted on the garage door and another swastika.

According to police, the graffiti on the house was captured by a neighbor's camera and shows three teenagers who are believed to be responsible.

Marion police also stated, “The graffiti was not associated with any threat directed toward anyone.”

Total damage exceeds $2,500. Under state law, hate crimes are typically handled in more targeted, specific cases.

They ask anyone with information about this incident to call Crime Stoppers at 800-CS-CRIME.