WILMINGTON, N.C. — Detectives with the Wilmington Police Department are investigating after a letter containing "vile and hateful language" was sent to a local AME Zion church.
- Three-page letter containing "vile and hateful language" directed at African Americans delivered to local AME Zion church
- Case being treated as hate crime
- Patrols have been increased around all churches throughout the area
Members of St. Andrews AME Zion Church called authorities on Sunday, December 15 after they say a three-page letter was delivered to the church. The letter reportedly contained "vile and hateful language," according to a release from Wilmington PD, which was directed at African Americans within the community.
Detectives say the letter was typed, unsigned, and missing a return address.
The department says the case is being treated as a hate crime and is currently being investigated by violent crimes detectives.
“We will not sit back and allow ourselves to be divided,” said Chief Ralph Evangelous during a news conference Wedensday morning. “We stand here together. There’s no place in our society [for] a letter like that with the language and disgusting rhetoric that we should be beyond. Let’s fix what the problems are. Let’s not tear down what we have. That’s what this letter, this individual is trying to do. We stand here united. We’re going to be here together. We’re going to fix this and move on.”
Detectives are working with the postal inspector to determine the origin of the letter, and patrols around all churches throughout the area have been increased.
Wilmington Police say any churches or organizations that receive a similar letter should call the department at 910-343-3609.