Hate Crimes At Temecula's Methodist Church Remain Under Investigation: Sheriff

TEMECULA, CA — The Riverside County Sheriff's Department has upgraded its investigation of vandalism and thefts at a local Temecula church to a hate crime investigation, according to Lt. Deirdre Vickers.

Recently, swastikas were painted on the building and pride flags were repeatedly stolen at Temecula United Methodist church, according to Pastor Drew Davis. The church has been targeted, he says, as it is a welcoming space for all. They regularly reach out to LGBTQ community members and anyone seeking connection and support.

"I didn't share (the vandalism) initially as a hate crime; however, I feel now that this should be considered exactly that," Pastor Drew Davis told Patch in early November.

No suspects are in custody, and the investigation remains active and ongoing, according to Vickers.

First a theft of pride and transgender flags. Then, graffitied swastikas.

The incidents began following the Temecula Valley Pride Celebration, held Oct. 17 in the church parking lot.

"I came to church on the 18th of October, and that evening, we found our Pride flag was stolen," Davis told Patch. "Then, I got a phone call that a swastika was painted on the back of the church. Later that evening, someone stole another Pride flag."

Davis said the property's security cameras were not working at the time, but repairs were scheduled.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department is investigating the incidents as hate crimes.

"Deputies were informed on Oct. 27 and collected evidence but did not locate any suspects," Lt. Dierdre Vickers said. "There have been no arrests made, and the investigation remains ongoing."

Davis said deputies from the Southwest Sheriff's Station have been supportive.

"The sheriffs were very supportive," Davis said. "I was quite pleased with the conversation. They drove around the community and investigated paths someone may have used to reach the building."

Despite the incidents, Davis said the church has found encouragement in the community's response.

"Through this, it has shown me how much the community is noticing what we are trying to do," he said.

That work includes hosting Temecula Pride celebrations, two queer proms (with a third in the planning stages), and advocating for LGBTQ awareness at Temecula City Council and local school board meetings.

Davis said those efforts are helping build a support network throughout the Temecula Valley. He told reporters, "To the person that did this, they are still loved."

Finding Hope Through Chosen Family

For Davis, the church's mission extends beyond Sunday services. He believes community connections, particularly the concept of chosen family, can help people through difficult times.

"We can find hope in places where we aren't looking for it," Davis said. "I have become very open to the concept of adoptive family."

He said support does not always come from traditional family relationships.

"If we look around, we find an unexpected place, and someone waiting to be a caregiver," he said. "May not be a birth parent or a blood sibling, but it is chosen family that has become our foundation to get through things."

Even the vandalism has reinforced the importance of the church's outreach. A donations link is open to replace the stolen flags and paint over hateful marks left on the building.

"When our community became faced with this, first the graffiti, then the stolen flags, I heard many say that this is a horrible thing," he said. "They'd say, 'I'm angry about this, but we're getting their attention.' It matters what we're doing here. They have responded with hope and help. Thank you to those who want to be part of our image of hope, and to those who will not let fear win."

Moving Forward With Remembrance Service

The church is continuing preparations for its Transgender Day of Remembrance service, scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 19, despite the recent incidents.

The evening service will include music, speakers sharing stories of transgender people who have died, reflections on grief and community support, and a reading of names honoring those who have lost their lives.

"Even with this hate crime happening, we, without hesitation, are moving forward with our plans for Transgender Day of Remembrance on Thursday, Nov. 19," Davis said.

For Davis, continuing that work is part of the church's commitment to providing a place where community members can find acceptance, connection and support.

More information about Transgender Day of Remembrance is available at TransgenderDayOfRemembrance.org.

“Our goal is to maintain a welcoming and affirming space for all, ensuring that all are loved and of sacred worth in the eyes of faith and in the heart of grace," Drew states on the church's website.

Temecula United Methodist Church remains a welcoming, affirming, and reconciling congregation, according to its website.

"All who seek God are welcome. Join our TUMC family to participate in worship, education, fellowship, ministry and mission, regardless of race, color or ethnicity, age, marital status, gender, sexual identity, expression, physical or mental ability. “Anyone who comes to me, I will never drive away” (John 6:37). This is a place where you will find welcome, support, comfort, and strength for your life."

Learn more at: temeculaumc.com.