ASHBURN, Va. (WJLA) — Loudoun County Sheriff’s officials are investigating anti-Israel and pro-Palestine graffiti and property damage that occurred at four Starbucks stores in Ashburn overnight Monday.
The outside of the stores were spray painted with various words and symbols, according to officials. The graffiti was removed or covered by store employees.
Employees reported the incidents after arriving at work on Tuesday morning, officials said. Sheriff’s officials said they believe the incidents are related.
“Hate speech and destruction of property will not be tolerated in Loudoun County,” said Sheriff Mike Chapman. “We are actively investigating these incidents as we do all similar acts and are determined to identify and charge whoever is responsible.”
The incident comes as protests continue in the DMV area with some calling for a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza-Israel war and for universities to divest from companies that support Israel'smilitary operations.
The affected Starbucks locations are in Ashbrook, Broadlands, Pipeline and Loudoun shopping centers. All stores will remain open for business.
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