FBI helping Ohio college over pro-ISIS graffiti
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Messages extolling the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) that were painted on a large rock at Youngstown State University have rattled locals in northeastern Ohio.
University spokeswoman Shannon Tirone says staff discovered the messages when they arrived on campus Monday morning. The messages on the rock outside of the Kilcawley Center read: "We are coming," ''France Deserves Destruction" and "YSU supports ISIS."
CBS News senior investigative producer Pat Milton reports the FBI is assisting the police at Youngstown State University in its investigation into the incident.
One indication that the message could be a hoax is that Arabic writing also on the rock was not true to form.
A YSU spokesperson said the rock is a traditional rock in the middle of campus and is routinely used by groups to paint messages such as for homecoming, or to support a fraternity event, or breast cancer awareness month.
Tirone said employees painted over the messages with white paint and some students plan to re-paint the rock with an American flag.
Tirone said the university doesn't believe the messages indicate any credible threat. But she says campus police have reached out to other law enforcement authorities and are searching for the person or persons responsible. The university also is reviewing campus security footage.