Santa Cruz Mayor Donna Meyers and Police Chief Andy Mills viewed the damage early Saturday morning.
"Vandalism of our Black Lives Matter mural is unacceptable and must be dealt with immediately. The Santa Cruz Police are actively investigating this crime and keeping me up to date. We will work to repair the mural and stand in solidarity with our community to oppose hate," Meyers said. Chief "This type of behavior is unacceptable in our community, and we will pour all of the resources necessary to ensure we identify and prosecute those responsible," Mills said. "Justice must be served as this crime affects (and) deteriorates the civility of our community and creates a higher level of anxiety for many citizens, including our black community."