The sheriff’s office is conducting an investigation into vandalism at a church

Cave City, Arkansas – Sheriff’s deputies are looking for the individuals responsible for painting “multiple satanic symbols” on a nearby church.

The Maxville Missionary Baptist Church in Cave City was vandalized sometime between 10 p.m. on Sunday, June 11, and 6 a.m. on Monday, June 12, according to Sharp County Sheriff Shane Russell.

In addition to “multiple satanic symbols on the building and a van,” Russell claimed the suspect also spray-painted:

• A winking smiley face with devil horns
• An upside-down cross on multiple doors
• “Beast” written on the van’s driver’s side door
• “666″ written on an exterior wall

“Let it be noted, this type of criminal act will not be tolerated in Sharp County,” Russell said. “Regardless of your spiritual beliefs, Sharp County will uphold the First Amendment Constitutional rights of the Freedom of Religion.”

His agency, he continued, “has zero tolerance for any church being intentionally damaged or vandalized.”

The perpetrators will be found and brought to justice, according to Russell.

Extra patrols near the church have been ordered by the sheriff.

Sharp County Central Dispatch may be reached at 870-994-2211, and the sheriff’s office can be reached at 870-994-7356.