By Adam Ghassemi
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – From the front, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Cookeville looks normal; but around back, graffiti is plastered all around the door.
Instead of gang markings there is a cross surrounded by the word "Amen" and phrase "Why? Because he first loved us." It's all signed by "Rogue."
The message may seem innocent, but a church bishop is worried about the message the person is trying to send. Cookeville Ward Bishop Bruce Oyston said by phone Tuesday he feels like the church is being targeted, possibly because of their religious beliefs.
"We don't ever rule anything out," said Cookeville Police Major Nathan Honeycutt who says they're investigating, but believe this is more vandalism than a hate crime. "We really do look for those indicators that might indicate or point out a deeper meaning and at this particular time we don't see that."
It isn't the first time it's happened. Oyston said someone spray painted on the same spot the weekend before.
Honeycutt said they're watching to see if the person strikes again.
"They're not only responsible criminally, but they're responsible financially, and that includes their parents if they're juveniles," Honeycutt went on to say.
Graffiti is also showing up in other places, including Jere Whitson Elementary school. Investigators do not believe the school and church graffiti are connected.
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