Six juveniles were taken into police custody Saturday night after police say they were caught spray painting property throughout the City of Salem.

According to a police report, police responded to the 600 Block of North Lincoln Avenue shortly before 10:30 p.m. Saturday in reference to eight juveniles spray painting the property.

Pictures sent to 21 News by a viewer show various properties including a fence, a car, and the high school football stadium vandalized with racial slurs and other phrases such as "Free Baby Kia" spray painted on them.

Police say when they got there, the juveniles ran off in different directions. Officers were able to catch six out of the eight juveniles and took them into custody. Information was gathered on the other two as well.

Police believe this conduct to have taken place over the course of Friday and Saturday with most of it occurring Saturday.

Salem Police Chief J.T. Panezott tells 21 News the teens were students at the United Local School District in Hanoverton.

"The graffiti problem kind of dropped off. We really haven't been having too many problems with it. Don't know why these people thought that they needed to come up to Salem and do a lot of damage, but the damage is done and it's time to pay with the consequences," said Panezott.

United Local Schools Superintendent Lance Hostetler released the following statement on the allegations against these students.

"First, let me be absolutely clear: there is no place for hatred, bigotry, or discrimination in our school or anywhere else. Such actions not only harm individuals but also undermine the inclusive and supportive environment set forth in our vision and our daily work as educators to support students not only at United Local but students all over the state and country."
 
"I urge all members of our community to remain vigilant and report any incidents of hate speech or discrimination immediately. By working together, we can create a safer and more welcoming environment for all."
 

Police say all of the juveniles are likely to be charged with obstructing official business and criminal mischief. Panezott says he's unaware of any charges officially being filed at this time.