Police in Eastern Iowa are investigating an awful incident of vandalism that happened at two restaurants over the weekend. The vandalism includes phrases and symbols of racism and hate. The mayor of this community has condoned these actions and police are looking to find those responsible for spreading hate.

Nazi Swastikas Painted Latin America Restaurants In Iowa

Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark issued a community alert, and Muscatine Police are investigating multiple acts of vandalism that are believed to have occurred throughout the day on Sunday (Jan. 26, 2025). Most of the acts involved spray-painting various buildings with graffiti. One building had a window damaged, and one agency received what appeared to be racist emails.

Muscatine Police say the investigation is ongoing and progress is being made. Although the type of graffiti may be alarming, there is not believed to be any ongoing threat to the general public.

Mayor Brad Bark said in a social media post on Sunday as he issued a community alert about the vandalism that occurred throughout the city. Mayor Bark said in his post,

"Over the weekend, our community faced a troubling incident involving the vandalism of local buildings with swastikas. I have been in touch with the Muscatine, IA Police Department, and they are taking this matter seriously. Let me be very clear: we do not condone this kind of hate-filled behavior in our community and we work towards identifying those involved. Such acts are absolutely disgusting and have no place here in Muscatine."

As you can see in his post below, Nazi swastikas were painted near the door of Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant (208 E 2nd St, Muscatine), and on the Puerto Rican-painted door of Jibaro Restaurant (201 W 2nd St, Muscatine). The phrase "We don't want you here," was also painted on Jibaro.

Mayor Bark continued with his post saying,

"We must stand together to promote unity and respect for all individuals. If you have any information or video regarding this incident, please contact the authorities. Thank you for your support in keeping our community safe. WE ARE ALL MUSCATINE and let’s show support for JibaroRestaurant and Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant!!"

Both Jibaro Restaurant and Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant responded to the vandalism from over the weekend:

Muscatine Police say that more details regarding the investigation will be released as they become available. Anyone who might have information regarding these acts is encouraged to call Detective Nikki Sink of the Muscatine Police Department at (563) 263-9922 extension 612.

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