RANDOLPH — The following is a statement from Randolph Police Chief William Pace:
“The Randolph Police Department is currently actively investigating multiple acts of vandalism at a local church. Our department responded to the International Assembly of God church at 572 South Main St. in Randolph four times between April 6 and May 2 for reports of vandalism ranging from broken windows to smashed light bulbs.
“During each call, our officers collected evidence and searched the area for information that could lead to identifying the suspect or suspects. Detectives have canvassed the area looking for surveillance video that may help to identify the perpetrator or perpetrators. Our officers have been conducting increased surveillance in the area in the hopes of identifying who is responsible for these unacceptable acts of vandalism.
“Although the frequency of incidents at this location is concerning, based on the evidence we have at this time, there is no specific indication right now that this should be classified as a hate crime. If new evidence comes to light that these acts are indeed a hate crime, we will investigate it as such and anyone charged with these incidents will be charged accordingly.
“In an additional incident of vandalism that took place on April 17 to a vehicle parked outside of the church building, a person was photographed on video surveillance from a distance and is described as a black male, wearing black clothing, who left the area in a black 2013-2017 Honda Accord, toward Avon. A surveillance video showed that the vehicle’s license plate began with the letter H. The suspect vehicle has aftermarket and distinctive “five star” rims. This person is a person of interest in each of the church vandalism incidents and police would like to speak with this individual.
“We urge anyone with information about these incidents to contact the Randolph Police Department at 781-963-1212.”
“Because this investigation is active and ongoing, there will be no further information released at this time.”
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