Over recent weeks, a mosque located in eastern New Mexico has been subjected to multiple acts of vandalism, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities. Police in Portales have indicated that similar damage has been reported at other unoccupied buildings in the vicinity. While Police Chief Christopher Williams suggested to KRQE that the incidents may not be hate-motivated, investigators are actively pursuing leads and increasing surveillance in the area.

Williams emphasized that the investigation will continue regardless of whether a hate crime determination is made. He clarified that in New Mexico, hate crime status serves as a sentencing enhancement rather than a distinct criminal charge.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a national Muslim advocacy organization, issued a statement condemning the vandalism and urging law enforcement to explore the possibility of bias as a motive. CAIR also recommended increased patrols around the Portales Islamic Center.

Ahmed Benssouda, the center's director, detailed the extent of the damage, stating that vandals initially punctured walls, desecrated a Quran by tearing pages and dousing it with beer, destroyed furniture, and littered the premises. In subsequent incidents, the building's air conditioning unit was damaged, and vulgar graffiti was spray-painted on a wall.

Expressing his dismay, Benssouda stated his belief that the repeated acts of vandalism demonstrate a blatant disregard for the law.