A Jacksonville Beach police officer returning home from work July 21 found racial slurs on his personal vehicles and an attempted arson.
Racial slurs and anti-law enforcement messages were found on two personal cars owned by a Jacksonville Beach police officer who is African-American.
In addition, an incendiary device was put inside one of the vehicles and caused arson.
Police Chief Gene Paul Smith said the officer was returning home July 21 at about 3 a.m. when he saw the lights on one of his cars flashing. When he checked, he found both of his cars had been vandalized outside his home in the area of San Pablo Road and Atlantic Boulevard.
The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said they have exhausted all investigative leads and are asking the public for assistance.
Anyone who has information is asked to call JSO at 904-630-0500 or email JSOcrimetips@jaxsheriff.org.
To remain anonymous and receive a possible reward up to $3,000, call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-8477.
“This was not vandalism,” Smith said. “It was a direct attack on an officer. We consider an attack on a Jax Beach officer an attack on all Jax Beach officers.”
