Police Identify Four Teens Suspected of Displaying Racist Message on Rochester Bridge
Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- Authorities have identified four teenagers suspected of displaying a racial slur on a Rochester pedestrian bridge.
Read More: Rochester Police Request Public's Help in Racist Graffiti Case
The slur was discovered on the pedestrian bridge that crosses East Circle Dr. near Century High School on the morning of April 14.
A motorist reported seeing the message, which was spelled out using red cups james through holes of a chain-linked fence on the side of the bridge.
It was taken down by a Minnesota State Trooper who saw the message while driving through the area.
The racial act was rebuked by a public event held at the site of the racist vandalism. It was organized by the Rochester Chapter of the NAACP and event participants decorated the bridge with signs and spelled out “love wins.”
The organization also discussed the issue and racism as a whole during a series of townhall meetings held after the rally.
Read More: Citizens Rally to Rebuke Racist Message Displayed on Rochester Pedestrian Bridge
Rochester Police had installed a temporary camera on the bridge and announced an open investigation in April.
Rochester Police ID 4 Teen Boys Suspected of Displaying Racial Slur
On Monday morning, Rochester Police Department Communications Coordinator Amanda Grayson announced investigators have identified three 16-year-old boys and a 17-year-old boy as the people who are suspected of displaying the racial slur.
Further information regarding their identities will not be released due to state privacy laws involving juveniles, a Rochester Police Department news release says.
“RPD is deeply committed to addressing incidents that impact the community like this very seriously. Racism, language that perpetuates hate, and all prejudice contradict the values of the City. We hope the investigation’s conclusion brings healing and closure to our community,” Rochester Police Chief Jim Franklin said.
Grayson says the investigation's findings have been forwarded to the Olmsted County Attorney's Office for review for potential charges.
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Gallery Credit: Stacker
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