The NYPD is asking for the public's help tracking down a person wanted in connection with two acts of anti‑Islamic graffiti in Brooklyn. Investigators say the same individual used a black marker to write anti‑Islamic statements behind 2101 Avenue X on June 16, then again on June 18 at Bill Brown Playground near Bedford Avenue. In both cases, the suspect took off on foot and has not been identified.
🚨WANTED FOR A HATE CRIME: The New York City Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual depicted in the attached media, who is wanted in connection with two hate crime criminal mischief incidents that occurred within the confines of the… pic.twitter.com/LTbgxec09N
— NYPD Crime Stoppers (@NYPDTips) July 8, 2026
NYPD releases images and location details
According to NYPD Crime Stoppers, the wanted flyer lists both cases as occurring within the 61st Precinct. Still images pulled from video appear to show the same individual, who police say used a black marker to scrawl anti‑Islamic language on or near property at the two locations before walking away. The person is seen holding what looks like a marker, then leaving the scene on foot.
How to report tips and reward details
Anonymous tips can be submitted by phone to 1‑800‑577‑TIPS (8477) or online at the NYPD Crime Stoppers website. The program also offers a Spanish‑language tip line at 1‑888‑57‑PISTA (74782). Crime Stoppers is offering up to $3,500 for information that leads to an arrest and indictment, according to the agency.
What the law says about hate crimes
Under New York law, certain offenses can be charged as hate crimes when a person commits a specified crime and intentionally selects the target, or when the act is motivated in whole or in substantial part by a protected characteristic such as religion, as outlined by the New York State Assembly. That means criminal mischief or vandalism charges can be elevated to hate crime charges and carry enhanced penalties if prosecutors can establish a bias motive.
Local context and community impact
Bill Brown Playground is located at Bedford Avenue and Avenue X in Sheepshead Bay and is listed as a neighborhood park by NYC Parks. In its public appeal, the NYPD is urging residents and nearby businesses to review doorbell and security camera footage from the dates in question and share any relevant video or tips with Crime Stoppers.
