True Light Christian Church in Buena Park vandalized with swastikas

BUENA PARK, Calif. (KABC) -- A church in Buena Park was defaced when vandals spray painted swastikas on the walls early Saturday morning.

Buena Park police said they responded to the True Light Christian Church in the 7300 block of Orangethorpe Avenue at about 7:40 a.m.

Photos of the scene show graffiti on the walls, including swastikas and other messages written in German, such as "toxic love" and "cherry apple."

Authorities said the act was being investigated as a possible hate crime.

Buena Park Police Sgt. Mike Lovchik said this is the second incident of vandalism they're aware of involving the church and a possible hate crime in the city.

Church member Peter Lee told the Orange County Register he estimates the church has spent $1,000 this year on cleaning up similar acts of vandalism. He said the church is looking into purchasing a fence to help keep vandals out.

Police did not yet have a description of the suspect or suspects. They were looking to see if surveillance cameras at the church caught something so they can determine if hate motivated the crime.

"We need to know whether this was some random act of senseless vandalism or if there is an actual threat or intimidation towards the church," explained Lovchik.

Anyone with information that could aid detectives in their investigation was urged to call Sgt. Mike Lovchik with the Buena Park Police Department at (714) 562-3915.

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