A Clifton man is facing bias intimidation charges after allegedly smearing feces on a Paterson school sign.

It happened at the Dr. Hani Awadallah school in Paterson on April 10. Authorities say that 32-year-old Mohamad Bekheet used the feces to block out the word "Allah" in the name Awadallah.

“Bias crimes spread like cancer through a community, creating fear and distrust and undermining everyone’s sense of peace and security,” state Attorney General Matt Platkin wrote in a statement. “As bias and hate continue to rise in New Jersey, we must be vigilant in addressing these crimes immediately to hold perpetrators accountable and to send a clear message that they will not be tolerated in any capacity.”

Bekheet was also charged with criminal mischief and harassment. He could face prison time and fines if convicted of the charges.