Post by Paddy by Grace on Oct 8, 2008 2:05:59 GMT -7
PIKESVILLE, Md./Police Investigate 2 Hate Crimes At Synagogues
wjz.com/local/hate.crime.synagogues.2.833322.html
PIKESVILLE, Md. (WJZ) ― Police are investigating what appear to be hate crimes in Baltimore County. Racist writing was found at two synagogues. Adam May reports on Saturday night, authorities say signs at the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation at 7401 Park Heights Avenue and Beth Tfiloh on 3300 Old Court Road were defaced with swastikas and offensive comments with black spray paint.
Police seized the signs as evidence.
"Some of our staff and volunteers came in Sunday morning. The police had already been notified by a passerby. Our first reaction was one of concern and disappointment," said Rabbi Andrew Busch.
Art Abramson, executive director of the Baltimore Jewish Council, says vandals are the likely suspects. But because of the recent Jewish High Holy Days and events in the Middle East, he says a full investigation is needed. Abramson is meeting with both Baltimore City and County police on Monday to discuss the ongoing investigation.
Investigators suspect teenagers, and will be reviewing surveillance cameras.
"We're hoping it was just childish play and there's no hateful motivation," said Corporal Mike Hill.
Anyone with information should call the Baltimore County Police.
wjz.com/local/hate.crime.synagogues.2.833322.html
PIKESVILLE, Md. (WJZ) ― Police are investigating what appear to be hate crimes in Baltimore County. Racist writing was found at two synagogues. Adam May reports on Saturday night, authorities say signs at the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation at 7401 Park Heights Avenue and Beth Tfiloh on 3300 Old Court Road were defaced with swastikas and offensive comments with black spray paint.
Police seized the signs as evidence.
"Some of our staff and volunteers came in Sunday morning. The police had already been notified by a passerby. Our first reaction was one of concern and disappointment," said Rabbi Andrew Busch.
Art Abramson, executive director of the Baltimore Jewish Council, says vandals are the likely suspects. But because of the recent Jewish High Holy Days and events in the Middle East, he says a full investigation is needed. Abramson is meeting with both Baltimore City and County police on Monday to discuss the ongoing investigation.
Investigators suspect teenagers, and will be reviewing surveillance cameras.
"We're hoping it was just childish play and there's no hateful motivation," said Corporal Mike Hill.
Anyone with information should call the Baltimore County Police.