- December 28, 2024
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The Flagler Beach Police Department said it has identified a citizen of Ireland as the man who spray-painted antisemitic messages on local businesses in November.
Six businesses in Flagler Beach — owned by either Israeli nationals or those of Jewish heritage — were vandalized late Nov. 19 with graffiti messages that read "Jew Murder," "290,000 child killers," "500,000 Jew child killer," "501,110 Jew child murderer," according to a press release from the FBPD. The FBPD has identified Liam Mackin, 70 — a citizen of Ireland with a local address in Flagler Beach — as the suspect.
A warrant was issued for Mackin's arrest on Dec. 6, but, according to the Central Florida Intelligence Exchange, he left for Ireland on Dec. 5, with no known return date.
Mackin is charged with felony criminal mischief, evidencing prejudice while committing offense. The warrant for his arrest has nationwide pickup, the press release said.
“Should this criminal attempt to re-enter this country at any border crossing, airport, etc., he will be arrested on the outstanding arrest warrant so he can answer to his crimes," FBPD Chief Matt Doughney said.
FBPD Detective Rosanna Vinci worked with FBPD staff and the Flagler County Sheriff's Office's Real Time Crime Center team to identify Mackin. Local Flagler Beach businesses also handed over surveillance footage to help identify Mackin and track his movements that night.
“These types of crimes don’t occur very often in Flagler Beach, but when they do, we will utilize every resource available," Doughney said. "Our community should rest easy knowing that this coward is no longer a threat to our community. ... This message is specifically directed to Mr. Mackin, should he happen to see this news release on social media: Happy Hanukkah!"