Hate Crime Against Asian Americans Investigated In Seal Beach

SEAL BEACH, CA— A hate crime against a member of the Asian American community in Seal Beach is being investigated, police say.

On Monday, Seal Beach police learned a threatening handwritten letter mailed to a family in the 55+ community of Leisure World.

"A call came in from a woman who says her elderly mother received a threatening letter in the mail," Seal Beach Sgt. Nick Nicholas reported.

The handwritten letter made racist statements, saying to "Watch out! Pack your bags and go back to your country where you belong!"

The family contacted the police out of fear for their safety, Nicholas said.

"Seal Beach investigators are diligently working to identify the author of the threatening letter," he said.

Investigative efforts, including DNA and fingerprint analysis, handwriting analysis, neighborhood canvass, and video surveillance are all being conducted, he said.

"Hate directed toward any member of our community is disgusting and will not be tolerated,” said Seal Beach Chief of Police Philip L. Gonshak. “Across the county we are seeing more and more violence committed against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. We will not allow this to happen in Seal Beach. Our investigators are working hard to following up on any and all leads we receive.”

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Jon Ainley at (562) 799-4100 ext. 1113 or jainley@sealbeachca.gov.