Elmhurst, IL – Two Elmhurst teenagers have been accused of carving swastikas into playground equipment at Edison Elementary School. Christopher Jackson, 18, appeared in court today charged with multiple felonies including Hate Crime and Criminal Damage to Property. A seventeen-year-old co-defendant is also expected to face charges.
According to DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin, the incident occurred on May 20, when Elmhurst police responded to reports of criminal damage at the school. Officers found swastikas and Nazi phrases carved into the playground equipment, causing damage estimated at $4,471.36. Jackson and the juvenile were identified and taken into custody.
Berlin stated that hate crimes are not tolerated in the community and commended the police for their swift action. Jackson’s next court appearance is set for June 17. The defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty.
