A series of anti-police messages were left near an Arlington Avenue home in Jamestown. Photo by the Jamestown Police Department

The Jamestown Police Department is investigating a series of “hateful” messages written in spray paint disparaging law enforcement.

The messages are believed to have been written between 8 p.m. Tuesday and 8:15 a.m. Wednesday on both the street and private walkway near an Arlington Avenue home. In a news release, the department said the black spray paint was used to “write several anti-law enforcement sentiments onto a walkway” near a property displaying a black and blue flag meant to support police.

Capt. Robert Samuelson of the Jamestown Police Department described the incident as a “targeted act” likely due to the police flag.

“It’s unfortunate that someone took it upon themselves to damage someone else’s property simply because of a flag that they choose to put up outside their home,” Samuelson told The Post-Journal. “Everyone has a right to their opinion but not a right to damage someone else’s property.”

He added: “At this time we believe that this is an isolated incident and no other reports of similar nature have been reported.”

Meanwhile, Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist said his office has been made aware of the “hateful spray paint activity.”

“We don’t condone this type of activity,” Sundquist said. “We’ve been working with local community justice groups and the police to make sure their voices are heard and that we are working together to bring positive change to the city. We encourage open and productive dialogue and not this kind of activity. Anyone who may have information related to this incident is asked to contact the Jamestown Police Department.”

Samuelson noted that those responsible could face criminal mischief or charges related to making graffiti. Both are misdemeanors, he said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Jamestown police at 483-7537, the anonymous Tips Line at 483-Tips (8477) or via the Tips 411 App.