Santa Clara, 12 Jun 2002 - The Muslim Community Association condemns the vandalism incident that took place at the site of the future Milpitas Mosque in Milpitas, California. We extend our support to the Muslim community in Milpitas.

Houses of worship are sanctuaries that must be respected and protected from acts of hate. We trust the law enforcement agencies will apprehend the perpetrators of this hate crime and bring them to justice. We call on the local authorities to be vigilant to hate groups and extend protection to other places of worship targeted by hate crime.

According to a June 12, 2002, news release issued by the Milpitas Police Department: 

"On June 11, 2002 at approximately 7:45 PM, Milpitas Police Officers investigated a Commercial Burglary at a Mosque that is under construction. Unknown Suspect(s) entered a modular trailer used by the construction company and damaged the interior. Derogatory remarks were written inside by the suspect(s). The investigation is on going by the Milpitas Investigations Bureau."