Nationwide — Patrick Sloan, an 18-year-old teen from Affton, Missouri, is facing charges for spray-painting racist graffiti, including threats to kill Black people, at two schools. His mother turned him in, saying her family does not condone his actions.
According to Fox 2 News, Sloan stole cans of black spray paint from a local hardware store on March 6th. The next day, school officials at Affton High discovered swastikas and other hateful messages on the building’s exterior. On March 12th, similar hate-filled graffiti appeared on Rogers Middle School.
Surveillance footage from Rogers Middle captured a person dressed in all-black clothing and a black bandana covering his face. Investigators later identified Sloan as the suspect with the help of family members and other witnesses. He reportedly admitted the crimes to a family member.
Sloan’s mother said she turned her son in after recognizing him in the security footage. She emphasized that his actions did not reflect how he was raised. “He’s 18, but he’s very naive. This has just been a nightmare for us,” his mom said.
She also revealed that Sloan had recently become involved with a radical political group and wanted to stir up the community.
“I am truly sorry for the concern and hurt that has been caused in the community because this is a small community and we are supposed to live in peace with each other,” she said.
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged Sloan with two counts of second-degree property damage motivated by discrimination. He is being held on a $25,000 cash-only bond with no court date set.
Moreover, the Affton School District has removed the graffiti, and police are increasing security to prevent further incidents.