Police investigating vandalism with sacrilegious messages at Kingsburg church

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The damage inside the youth center at the Kingsburg Covenant Church happened about a week ago.

No one from the church wanted to comment on the matter, but police say it was a hate crime.

Hateful words and symbols were spray-painted inside the Youth Center at the Kingsburg Covenant Church on June 1.

"The youth pastor walked into the youth house and discovered a large amount of graffiti and vandalism to the building," says Kingsburg Police Lt. Shaun Stephens.

Lt. Stephens says it covered the walls, mirrors, couches, and bathrooms. In all, the damage totaled around $8,000.

He says it didn't appear someone forced their way inside.

"It is considered a hate crime because it's a place of worship and the type of graffiti used," he said. Upside down cross with 666, there were also things about Satan. Things just inappropriate for a church."

Lt. Stephens says he's surprised a crime like this happened in a small community like Kingsburg.

"It's taken that room away from them now, that house away from them," he said. "Just be respectful of people's property. It's expensive and costs a lot of money to re-do, repaint and get this stuff together."

The investigation is ongoing.

The inside of the building remains untouched until an official appraisal.

You're encouraged to call the Kingsburg Police Department if you know anything.