New Jersey police are still trying to find whoever vandalized an Islamic center at Rutgers University. Local leaders called it an act of hate that happened at the end of Ramadan, one of the holiest times of the year for Muslims. NBC New York’s Adam Harding reports.
A 24-year-old man from New Brunswick has been arrested and federally charged for allegedly vandalizing the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers on College Avenue earlier this month.
Jacob Beacher remained in federal custody Monday after being charged. Officials say he is not affiliated with Rutgers University. Information on a possible attorney for him wasn't immediately available.
The investigation is still active and additional state charges are pending.
The FBI assisted. The federal agency says it used video surveillance footage and cellphone site data to make the case against Beacher. Beacher admitted he was seen on surveillance in the area but denied breaking into CILRU.
According to court papers, he allegedly did just that on April 10, the Eid-al-Fitr holiday, around 2:41 a.m. and damaged religious artifacts and multiple other items that contained holy language from the Qur'an.
The complaint also alleges that Beacher stole a Palestinian flag and a charity box belonging to the CILRU.
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Two days after the vandalism, Beacher allegedly voluntarily agreed to speak with law enforcement in North Plainfield and was told to be truthful. During that interview, Beacher confirmed to law enforcement, in substance and in part, that he was the person seen on video footage in the area but denied having broken into CILRU.
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The Rutgers University Police Department reminds you to take reasonable safety precautions, including:
• Secure points of entry to buildings and all workspaces when not in use;
• Do not leave valuables unattended or unsecured in your office, residence hall room or at your workspace;
• Do not prop open exterior doors;
• Stay alert and attuned to people and circumstances around you;
• Report suspicious activity or persons to the police immediately.
