South LA mosque vandalized days before Ramadan, prompting safety concerns

SOUTH LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A South Los Angeles mosque was vandalized over the weekend, just days before the start of the holy month of Ramadan, in what community members say is the latest in a series of troubling incidents involving the same woman.

Members of Islah L.A. discovered the damage when they gathered for a community bike ride and saw spray paint on the mosque's exterior, fence and sidewalk. They believed a person captured on surveillance video, appearing to toss something flammable over the fence, is the same person who came back hours later.

Community members told Eyewitness News the damage is a reminder of the need for mental health and housing support.

"She began to spray paint the outside of our building, our fence, and then the sidewalk. And she threw eggs at us, and she threatened us. She pulled out a box cutter," said Jihad Saafir, the Imam and religious director of Ishal L.A.

Saafir added that the woman is someone the mosque has known for years.

"We had a program called Peace Pods, and the young woman, she was a recipient of the Peace Pod's free therapy," he said. "Also, she's been a recipient of our food pantry."

According to Saafir, the harassment began about two years ago, and since then, the incidents have escalated. He said, while she did identify as muslim, she has also used hateful language toward them.

"This should really highlight the need for mental health services in communities like this," he said.

The latest incident comes as Islah L.A. prepares for Ramadan, when worshippers gather nightly for prayers, and families spend extended time at the mosque.

"During the month of Ramadan, we are here every night. Our families are gathered here every night," Saafir said.

Leaders at the mosque say they are concerned for the safety of congregants and the students who attend their academy. They are now fundraising to obtain security.

Police said the woman was arrested on suspicion of attempted assault with a deadly weapon. Saafir said he hopes she receives the support she needs.