Residents upset over anti-ICE graffiti at Golden Gate shopping plaza

GOLDEN GATE, Fla. —

Residents in Golden Gate expressed frustration after anti-ICE graffiti appeared on a building at a local shopping center, prompting a law enforcement response and calls for its removal.

The graffiti, which included a profanity directed at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was spray-painted on the wall of an abandoned building at Parkway Plaza near Golden Gate Parkway.

“I think it’s despicable,” said Taylor, a Golden Gate resident and taxpayer who declined to provide his last name. “I think this is ridiculous.”

Taylor said he enjoys living in the community but was upset when he saw the message on the building wall. He questioned the motive behind the vandalism.

“They wanted attention. They think it was funny or blatantly bad or racist or whatever you want to call it,” he said.

The profanity drew attention throughout the day as shoppers and passersby stopped to look. Several residents said they were confused about when the graffiti was created and why.

“It shows how the times are now,” said Francisco Gapar Rodas, another resident. “People want to behave and write things.”

Authorities said a 911 caller reported the graffiti after believing it had been painted Tuesday. Deputies responded to the scene to investigate.

The Collier County Sheriff's Office said it is working to contact the property owner and plans to ensure the graffiti is removed.

Some residents expressed concern that the vandalism could hurt local businesses and deter potential tenants from investing in the plaza.

“Somebody is going to come down here and see that they want to take over the main anchor in this plaza, and they’re going to see this on the side, and they’re going to be trying to go away from here,” Taylor said.

Authorities have not announced any suspects or arrests related to the graffiti.

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