Press Release

Town of Waterford, Connecticut
Rob Brule BEACNIER caer
First Selectman \
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For Immediate Release: WB UTIS P 2s
October 18, 2023 TEST fin) Zorarpes
For More Information, Contact:
Waterford Police Department
Lieutenant David Ferland
860-442-9451 Ext. 2328
dferland@waterfordct.org
Statement from First Selectman Rob Brule Following Swastika Incident in Waterford
The Town strongly condemns anti-Semitic graphics and acts of cowardice and bigotry. Last night,
the Town received a report of several swastikas’ painted on playground equipment located in
Leary Park. We are saddened and angered to hear of the ugly anti-Semitic vandalism that
appeared on our local playground. The swastika is a symbol of hate and violence and has no place
in any community, and we are outraged that it has emerged here, in our community, and on a
playground. The symbols of antisemitism are threatening and painful.
This incident is evidence that no community, even one as welcoming as Waterford, is immune to
hatred. We must remain ever vigilant in denouncing these acts and in supporting efforts to
combat bigotry and hatred. In Waterford, we strive to be an inclusive community and to educate
and advocate with others towards this important goal. We must be tireless in our efforts to
support each other within our community that we are all fortunate enough to call home.
The Town and the Waterford Police Department takes this incident very seriously and is
conducting an investigation to determine who is responsible. The hateful images have already
been removed by town staff. Anyone with information or who may have been in this area in the
last 48 hours and witnessed suspicious activity are asked to contact Lieutenant David Ferland at
the Police Department at 860-442-9451 x2328. Individuals who identify offensive messages
should contact the Police Department immediately to report it and not remove it until police can
suitably document it. Police or Town staff will remove it after it has been documented.