Mokena Police Asking For Public's Help Identifying Culprit Of Racist Graffiti Spray Painted On Pedestrian Bridge

Mokena IL

19 November, 2021

2:58 PM

Description

By Jon DePaolis, Richard Free Press: MOKENA, Ill. — The Mokena Police Department is asking for the public's help after a local pedestrian bridge was vandalized with racist graffiti. Interim Police Chief Brian Benton said investigators believe the incident occurred overnight on Wednesday, Nov. 17, starting at the construction site of the Village of Mokena's wastewater treatment plant, located in the 11400 block of 191st St. He said the offenders took several items, including spray paint. After leaving the site, Benton said the offenders went to an area in the woods nearby that has been noted as common hangout area for teenagers over the years and spray-painted graffiti on trees. But the graffiti on the pedestrian walking bridge connecting 191st Street and Stephanie Lane was of the biggest concern for the police department. "They drew some obscure signs and symbols," Benton said. "They also wrote [a racial slur]." Benton said the Village's public works employees removed or covered up the graffiti the morning of Thursday, Nov. 18. "We are asking for the public's help and anyone who may have any information as to who was responsible," Benton said. "We would appreciate if they would call the police department." Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to the police at 708-479-3912. Richard Free Press is a one-stop destination for the news that most affects you, the southwest suburban resident. Be an informed citizen of the town you live in and love.