Cherry Hill Man Posted Offensive Message At Preserve: Police

EVESHAM TOWNSHIP, NJ — A Cherry Hill man has been arrested after posting an offensive and biased message at the Black Run Preserve in Marlton, police announced.

Maxwell Arnal, 19, admitted to police that he changed the wording on a sign at the preserve to a racially biased message, according to Evesham Township police.

Police responded to the scene on March 28 for a report of a bias crime, but no suspect could be found, police said. During a follow-up investigation, police determined that a suspicious vehicle had been seen in the area.

Police said they traced the car to Arnal’s home, and evidence linking him to the crime was found in plain sight inside the car. Police interviewed Arnal, and Arnal admitted to the crime, police said.

“Any form of bias intimidation or hate towards any member of our community is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Evesham Township Police Chief Christopher Chew said. “I want to reassure our residents that this crime was thoroughly investigated and that we value our close working relationship with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office in ensuring that those who commit these heinous acts will be held accountable for their actions.”

“I commend the Evesham Township Police Department for aggressively investigating this act of vandalism conveying a despicable racist message,” Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina said. “The people of Evesham and throughout Burlington County will not be intimidated by acts of hate. All of our police departments stand ready to investigate suspected bias incidents, and we assure the public that bias crimes will be charged and prosecuted.”

Arnal was arrested on March 30 and charged with fourth-degree bias intimidation and harassment. He was released on his own recognizance with a mandatory court appearance.

According to the Attorney General’s Office, there were 10 bias incidents reported in Evesham Township last year. In Cherry Hill, there were 15. Read more here: Here’s How Many Bias Incidents Cherry Hill Saw In 2020

"Evesham Township is taking this time to share a message that residents and other followers of our town will know very well: Evesham Township has zero tolerance for racism, bigotry or any other forms of hatred," Evesham Township Mayor Jaclyn Veasy said. "Such deplorable displays do nothing but expose the narrow-mindedness and ignorance that continues to poison minds. As always, our community remains united against any such abhorrent actions, and we remain committed to a safe and welcoming township for all.”