A 16-year-old boy who painted a swastika and Nazi SS lightning bolts in front of a Holly Springs home, with threatening and vulgar messages for the Jewish residents, has been charged with two felonies and a misdemeanor, police said.
The suspect's name is being withheld because he is a juvenile. He was arrested Wednesday on charges of making terroristic threats, interference with government property and criminal trespass.
The graffiti was painted on the street in front of the family's home and on a garbage can. The family asked to remain anonymous, but expressed "deep gratitude" for the police response.
The Anti-Defamation League also commended police for taking swift action.
"The quick arrest in this case makes a strong statement that law enforcement officials in Holly Springs will not tolerate crimes motivated by hatred and bigotry in their community," said Bill Nigut, the ADL's regional director.
Nigut noted the suspect cannot be charged with a hate crime because Georgia is one of five states without a hate crime statute.
Police took the suspect, who lives in Holly Springs, to the regional youth detention center. He's awaiting a hearing before a Cherokee County judge.
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