Riverside County authorities are now investigating last month’s vandalism at a Temecula church as a hate crime, NBC Los Angeles learned Tuesday.
The investigation began on Oct. 27, when a swastika was found on the wall of Temecula United Methodist Church, days after the church community celebrated the annual Temecula Valley Pride festival.
The church’s American and inclusionary flags were also stolen, according to Pastor Drew Davis.
Initially, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department had said the case did not appear to be a hate crime.
No suspects were arrested as of Tuesday, and the investigation remained active and ongoing.
“I don’t know how a swastika cannot be perceived as a hate crime. It tells the story itself,” Justin Daley, president of Temecula Valley Pride, said last week. “Sadness whenever you see hate or hate signs on the church property. It’s disappointing and discouraging given that our event was a beacon of hope for the community.”
The pastor said the church community would continue to pursue its mission of hope and inclusivity while tightening security around the property.
“To the person that did this, they are still loved,” the pastor said, adding that the church is taking the matter seriously and moving forward with plans to hold a Transgender Day of Remembrance later this month.