WATSONVILLE — Watsonville Police is asking for help in identifying a man who was caught on camera vandalizing St. Patrick’s Church on Tuesday afternoon.
Surveillance footage shows the suspect walking toward the front doors of the church with a spray paint can in hand. About 15 seconds later, he’s seen walking away from the area.
Officers responded to the church after an employee reported the suspect and found a derogatory Spanish word spray-painted on the front doors. Officers canvassed the area but did not find the man, Watsonville Police spokeswoman Michelle Pulido said.
This is the second vandalism to occur at the same church in six weeks. The first incident, which was also caught on camera, shows a man throwing a rock at one of the church’s windows.
The suspect in both videos appears to be the same person, Pulido said, although the video from the first vandalism is grainy.
“With this week’s clear footage, we’re hoping someone can recognize this man,” Pulido said.
Total damage is estimated to be more than $1,500.
The suspect will face felony charges of vandalism charges. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Tyler Wildey at 768-3356.
