Garden State Times

The Camden County Board of Commissioners has issued a statement regarding an incident involving racist graffiti in Lawnside. Commissioners Jonathan Young and Al Dyer expressed their concern about the hate crime, which targeted a resident in the historically Black community.

"This weekend, in the historically black community of Lawnside, a resident was the victim of a racist attack and a hate crime," stated Young and Dyer. They reported that offensive graffiti, including racial slurs and imagery, was found spray-painted on a fence. The commissioners described it as "a shocking and disgusting display of hatred" with no place in Camden County.

Lawnside holds historical significance as the first independent African American municipality north of the Mason–Dixon Line. The commissioners emphasized their dismay over such an attack occurring within this community. "To see such a blatant attack on our Camden County community is frightening and appalling to say the least," they remarked.

They assured residents that local law enforcement is actively investigating the incident to ensure accountability for those responsible. "This hatred is completely unacceptable, and police are investigating the incident because perpetrators of this type of crime cannot and will not go unpunished," they affirmed.

The statement called for unity among community members to combat racism. "It is crucial for all of us to come together to stop racist hate in our communities," urged Young and Dyer. They encouraged anyone with information about the crime to contact the Lawnside Police Department at (856) 573-6205.