CAIR Asks FBI to Probe Va. Mosque Vandalism as Possible Hate Crime

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today called on the FBI and local law enforcement authorities to investigate a possible bias motive for vandalism targeting a mosque under construction in Virginia.

Vandals smashed glass in windows and doors of the Chantilly mosque, causing an estimated $60,000 in damage. The mosque's opening will be delayed due to the vandalism. Mosque officials believe the site was specifically targeted because of the extent of the damage and the fact that nothing was stolen.

SEE: Va. Mosque Opening On Hold After Vandals Trash Windows
http://tinyurl.com/6nwnkkg

"Any time a house of worship is targeted in this manner, law enforcement authorities must consider a possible bias motive," said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper.

Earlier this month, CAIR's Ohio office reported that a fire at a Muslim family's home in that state has been determined to be arson and is being investigated as a possible hate crime.

CAIR-OH: 'Suspicious' Arson Leaves Students in Cold
http://tinyurl.com/7jaktz5

Video: Fire at Ohio Muslim Family's Home was Arson (CAIR)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOegTKszz7I  

A number of recent reports have documented the growth and promotion of Islamophobia nationwide.

CAIR: Same Hate, New Target
http://tinyurl.com/66enzm8  

Center for American Progress: Fear, Inc.
http://tinyurl.com/7cozjxg  

Southern Poverty Law Center: Jihad Against Islam
http://tinyurl.com/3qsv2v8  

People for the American Way: The Right-Wing Playbook on Anti-Muslim Extremism
http://tinyurl.com/6j9fttw  

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

Become a Fan of CAIR on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/CAIRNational  

Subscribe to CAIR's E-Mail List
http://tinyurl.com/cairsubscribe  

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http://twitter.com/cairnational  

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http://www.youtube.com/cairtv  

CONTACT: CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, E-Mail: [email protected];  CAIR Communications Coordinator Amina Rubin, 202-488-8787, 202-341-4171, E-Mail: [email protected]

SOURCE Council on American-Islamic Relations

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