Portsmouth Teen Charged with Hateful Graffiti

A 17-year-old accused of spray-painting hateful imagery and messages on downtown businesses, homes and houses of worship is facing 22 counts of violating the New Hampshire Civil Rights Act according to New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella.

The teenager, a Portsmouth resident and former Portsmouth High School student, allegedly damaged property on February 21, prompting a strong rebuke of the actions by leaders and business owners across the city.

Investigators found hateful images, which included swastikas, crosses and the Star of David, among other symbols, were spray painted at 18 locations.