Crime & Safety

Police Investigating Vandalism Incidents at Washington Waldorf School as Hate Crimes

School has seen eight vandalism incidents since last October, according to police.

Montgomery County police are investigating a series of vandalism incidents at Bethesda’s as hate crimes, according to a police press release. The vandalism included graffiti consisting of racial epithets and swastikas, fires set and a broken window. All of the incidents happened outside the school, according to the release.

The school, located at 4800 Sangamore Road, has seen eight hate crimes since Oct. 15 of last year. The latest incident happened Jan. 31.

An official for the Washington Waldorf School – a private, K-12 school -- said that they don’t believe the incidents were perpetrated by students there. Officials said they don't believe the school was targeted for a particular reason, rather, that it’s located in a secluded area that might attract vandals. The school is taking precautions including installing more lighting and cameras.

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Police haven’t yet developed a suspect. If you have information about the crime, call the Second District Investigative Section at 301-652-0112. You can also call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), or at 240-773-8477, to leave an anonymous tip. Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest or an indictment. 


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