A menorah was vandalized in Framingham over the weekend, based on police who’re investigating the incident as a potential hate crime.
Meanwhile, greater than 200 swatting incidents and hoax bomb threats concentrating on Jewish amenities throughout the nation had been reported over the weekend, as antisemitic incidents spike amid the Israel-Hamas struggle.
In Framingham, police on Sunday obtained a report that the Centre Common menorah had been vandalized. The menorah had been reportedly knocked over, and a pro-Israel signal that had been in entrance of the menorah was lacking.
“Video surveillance shows an individual knock the menorah over around 6:51 p.m. on Saturday evening,” Framingham Police stated in a press release.
The menorah was scratched and two gentle bulbs had been broken within the incident.
The particular person had not been recognized as of early Monday afternoon, and police had been urging residents to return ahead if that they had any details about the incident.
“Investigators are actively working this case and are investigating this as a potential hate crime,” police stated.
Also over the weekend, greater than 200 swatting incidents and false bomb threats concentrating on Jewish amenities had been reported throughout the nation, based on the Secure Community Network, which tracks antisemitic incidents.
“The alarming volume of swatting incidents and false bomb threats being carried out across the country is a major concern for the safety and security of the Jewish community in North America, as well as law enforcement,” stated Michael Masters, the CEO and nationwide director of the Secure Community Network.
“It’s critical to recognize that these are not victimless crimes or innocent pranks: they can have real — and even deadly — consequences,” Masters added.
There has been a file variety of reported antisemitic incidents following Hamas’ terrorist assaults in Israel on Oct. 7.
“We are continuing to investigate and work with law enforcement on several reported email bomb threats against Jewish institutions across the country today,” the Anti-Defamation League posted on Sunday. “If you experience an incident or are a recipient of a threat, please report it to law enforcement immediately.”
Framingham Police are asking individuals with details about the menorah vandalism to name 508-532-6214. If individuals need to stay nameless, they’ll name 508-532-5900, or go to www.framinghamma.gov/3345/Anonymous-Crime-Tips.
Source: www.bostonherald.com”