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‘I’m sickened’: Lantana church and police memorial vandalized

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    LANTANA, Fla. (WPBF) — Police in Lantana are investigating a series of vandalism incidents over the weekend, including graffiti on a historic chapel and a memorial for fallen officers.

The Chapel of the Holy Spirit, one of the oldest buildings in Lantana, was defaced with upside-down crosses and other anti-Christian symbols.

“I’m sickened; it’s very sickening to me. I imagine most people are disgusted by it,” said Karen Lythgoe, mayor of Lantana.

A few blocks away, a memorial for fallen police officers was also vandalized, with the word “pigs” spray-painted on the stone.

“These are people that gave their lives serving the community,” Lythgoe said.

Across the street from the memorial, graffiti was also found on the back of an abandoned strip mall and by a Burger King dumpster.

Lantana Police Department Assistant Chief Daniel Navas said the vandalism likely occurred over the weekend, either late Friday night or early Saturday morning.

“We’re not leaving any leaves unturned; we’re exploring every option,” Navas said. “We’re outraged, and we’re committed to locating and holding those accountable who damaged the memorial.”

The community has since restored the fallen officer memorial, scrubbing away the paint.

Police are asking residents to check their security and Ring cameras for any information that could help identify the vandals.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Lantana Police Department.

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