Racial vandalism on Clarke's vehicle, two others

Police yesterday were investigating an incident in which three vehicles, including one owned by City Councilman Darrell L. Clarke, were found painted with racially biased markings.

Police said the vehicles, parked in the Kensington section, had "KKK" and swastika insignias spray-painted on them. The vandalism was discovered yesterday after a call to the 26th Police District.

"This was a terrible incident, and we are investigating it as a hate crime," Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey said in a statement. Clarke, who represents the Fifth Council District, is African American.

- Bonnie L. Cook