(RepublicanJournal.org) – Hate crimes are treated seriously by federal and state officials, particularly when there are threats to an individual or group because of their ideologies, skin color, or religion. Headquartered in Salem, Massachusetts, the Satanic Temple has been repeatedly targeted. A recent bombing involving a place of worship is now under investigation.
According to a statement by the Salem Police Department, someone threw an explosive onto the Satanic Temple’s porch in the early morning hours of April 8. There were no injuries, as nobody was inside the building at the time. However, when staff arrived around 4 p.m., they discovered the device and damage to the building. It’s not clear how much damage there was.
Police were called to the scene where they determined that the device was no longer a risk, but had K-9 units sweep the facility to determine if there were any other explosives present. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted in the efforts. Authorities with the Salem Police Criminal Investigation Division and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force are currently investigating the bombing.
This is at least the third attack on the Satanic Temple, which does not worship Satan, but identifies as a “non-theistic religious organization,” in the past two years. In 2022, a man allegedly set the headquarters on fire. He was arrested and charged with arson, civil rights violations, and the destruction of a place of worship. He pleaded not guilty to all counts.
In Iowa in January, a man was arrested and charged with a hate crime for reportedly destroying a statue on display at Iowa’s state Capitol. The organization was permitted to display the pagan idol for the holidays.
Anyone with information on the recent attack is asked to call the Criminal Investigation Division at 978-745-9700. They can also leave information by calling 978-744-0171, extension 50116. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
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