Hate graffiti targeted at houses of worship in Portsmouth

PORTSMOUTH — Police are investigating after several locations were vandalized with graffiti in Portsmouth early yesterday morning.

The graffiti consisted of hate symbols, including swastikas, and what appears to be intentional targeting of houses of worship and political messages.

The vandalism took place in the downtown area at around 2:30 a.m.

Police say the activity appears to be largely confined to the portion of the downtown between Deer Street, Middle Street, and Court Street.

There were also some additional instances on Marcy Street.

The Portsmouth Police Department is looking for assistance from the residents and businesses of the Downtown area, particularly with video surveillance that might capture the suspect during this time period.

Anyone with any further information is asked to call Detective Sergeant McCarthy at 603-610-7656.