Temple Israel Defaced / Tip Line
From City of Minneapolis news release:
Monday, Dec. 16: Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara stated today that the Minneapolis Police Department is investigating the defacing of Temple Israel at 2323 Fremont Av S. At approximately 7:19 a.m., a suspect is observed on surveillance cameras spray painting swastikas on the doors and a pillar that face Emerson Av. S. The suspect who was wearing a white hoodie with the hood up, a black face covering, black jogger pants, and tan boots arrived and left in a silver Honda Civic and spent less than two minutes at the temple.
MPD has worked closely in the past with leaders from Minneapolis synagogues, the Jewish Community Relations Council, and Temple Israel to address safety concerns. These relationships continue. MPD is monitoring cameras in the area and is investigating this incident.
“Hate crimes and crimes against our houses of worship are particularly troubling because they can result in real widespread fear and can contribute to potential division among our residents,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. “MPD has no tolerance for these types of crime and will be investigating this as a bias based crime.”
“When hate is embraced or tolerated, it is emboldened and spreads,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “I’ve seen blatant antisemitism increase dramatically over the last year, yet too few have had the courage to speak out against it, opting for the safety of silence. No matter one’s ethnicity, race, or religion, when any group is targeted, it’s on all of us to condemn it. These nazi symbols were placed on my synagogue, where Minneapolis Jews congregate and deserve to feel safe. We don’t back down to fear. We stand strong, proud of who we are, and I know that Minneapolis - a city of inclusivity and love - stands with us. I support Chief O’Hara and our entire MPD as we search for the individual responsible for this hateful act.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or the button below. Tips are anonymous and persons providing information leading to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a financial reward. The GO number is 24-356137.