Hanging Halloween Decoration in Maryland Reported to Police as Hate Crime

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DUNKIRK, Md. — A Halloween decoration mistakenly perceived as a racially charged symbol caused alarm in a Dunkirk neighborhood this week, prompting an investigation by the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office.

On the morning of November 8, sheriff’s deputies and detectives from the Criminal Investigation Bureau responded to reports of a human-shaped figure hanging from a tree in a residential front yard. Concerned residents initially feared the display was intended as a racially motivated statement.

Upon investigating, detectives spoke with the homeowner, who explained that the object was part of a Halloween display created by his family. According to the homeowner, the decoration had been in different locations around the yard for about two weeks. Once a family member became aware of the concerns raised by neighbors, they promptly took down the decoration.

The homeowner later expressed regret over the misunderstanding, offering to meet with concerned residents to discuss the incident and apologize.

Following consultations with the Calvert County State’s Attorney’s Office, the sheriff’s office closed the case, determining that the incident was an unfortunate misunderstanding.