Tuesday, September 25 2012 11:08 PM EDT2012-09-26 03:08:10 GMT
The Buffalo Police Department is investigating what they believe are a series of bias crimes against five churches in the area over the weekend, three of which were damaged.
The Buffalo Police Department is investigating what they believe are a series of bias crimes against five churches in the area over the weekend, three of which were damaged.
BUFFALO, Minn. (KMSP) -
Buffalo police say they have identified the man they believe is responsible for a string vandalism at area churches earlier this week.
Police Chief Mitch Weinzetl told FOX 9 News the department received several tips after releasing surveillance photos of the suspect. Now, officers are actively searching for the man.
Prosecutors in Wright County are currently seeking felony property damage charges, but they may add hate crime charges.
In all, six separate churches of different denominations were targeted over the weekend. The churches affected are:
7th Day Adventist
Buffalo Presbyterian
Buffalo United Methodist
Hosanna Lutheran
St. Francis Xavier
Zion Lutheran
In addition to breaking doors and stained glass windows, offensive signs making references to Jesus being gay were hung on church grounds.
