Marine Park Hate Crime: Swastika Found Outside Synagogue

The following is a press release from the offices of Councilman Lew Fidler:

Council Member Lew Fidler along with Assembly Members Alan Maisel and Helene Weinstein expressed outrage and shock over the recent escalation of anti-Semitic vandalism and assaults in their Brooklyn communities.

The most recent incident occurred yesterday, when a swastika was discovered on the sidewalk adjacent to a synagogue in Marine Park. This follows numerous recent hate crimes, which include swastikas or anti-Semetic words that were discovered at several locations throughout Borough Park, Kensington and Williamsburg, and the beating of a an orthodox man as he returned from Shul last week in Sheephead Bay. While the group of thugs brutally beat their victim, they shouted “dirty Jew” and “Kike”.

“We must not tolerate this kind of hateful behavior in our neighborhoods.  I am pleased that the NYPD has agreed to our demand for increase patrols and thank Shomrim for stepping up their presence, as well.  It is imperative that the members of our communities feel safe, and we are going to both nip this in the bud and bring these thugs to justice. This recent rash of bias crimes is under investigation by the NYPD Hate Crimes Unit, and I am confident that, through the combined efforts of all involved, we will prevail. I have asked Brooklyn D.A. Charles Hynes to prosecute all responsible parties to the fullest extent of the law.” said Councilman Lew Fidler.

“Once again, we are confronted with the outrageous behavior of a hate-filled person who has no respect for our community or the tradition of tolerance that makes our country great. I am grateful to the NYC Police Department for quickly responding to this hateful incident and doing everything that they can to find those who are responsible,” stated Assemblyman Alan Maisel.

“I am appalled that a hateful act like this was committed just steps from Merkaz Yisroel of Marine Park, a cornerstone of this community. Vandalism like this is an insult to tolerance, a trait imbued by Merkaz Yisroel, founded in 1932 as the Marine Park Jewish Center. I call upon the District Attorney’s office to work with the NYPD and community in apprehending those responsible and use them as examples in order to deter others who wish to disrupt our peace and quality of life” said Assemblywoman Helene Weinstein upon hearing about the most recent incident.

The unified lawmakers are seeking assistance by asking anyone who may have information to please come forward and call the Confidential NYPD TIPS LINE at 1-800-577-TIPS.