Massachusetts police investigating after someone knocks over menorah; more than 200 swatting incidents and hoax bomb threats targeting Jewish facilities

A menorah was vandalized in Framingham over the weekend, according to police who are investigating the incident as a possible hate crime.

Meanwhile, more than 200 swatting incidents and hoax bomb threats targeting Jewish facilities across the country were reported over the weekend, as antisemitic incidents spike amid the Israel-Hamas war.

In Framingham, police on Sunday received a report that the Centre Common menorah had been vandalized. The menorah had been reportedly knocked over, and a pro-Israel sign that had been in front of the menorah was missing.

“Video surveillance shows an individual knock the menorah over around 6:51 p.m. on Saturday evening,” Framingham Police said in a statement.

The menorah was scratched and two light bulbs were damaged in the incident.

The individual had not been identified as of early Monday afternoon, and police were urging residents to come forward if they had any information about the incident.

“Investigators are actively working this case and are investigating this as a potential hate crime,” police said.

Related Articles

Local News |


Editorial: Universities selective when it comes to free speech

Local News |


Massachusetts Teachers board under fire for cease-fire ‘genocidal war’ resolution: ‘Antisemitic dog-whistling’

Local News |


A Harvard event was moved off-campus after Massachusetts Congressman Jake Auchincloss criticized president for comments on antisemitism

Local News |


‘Moral failure’: Harvard is slammed after board backs President Claudine Gay following Congressional testimony on antisemitism

Local News |


Statement from the Harvard Corporation in support of President Claudine Gay

Also over the weekend, more than 200 swatting incidents and false bomb threats targeting Jewish facilities were reported across the country, according to 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,” said Michael Masters, the CEO and national 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 record number of reported antisemitic incidents following Hamas’ terrorist attacks 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 people with information about the menorah vandalism to call 508-532-6214. If people want to remain anonymous, they can call 508-532-5900, or visit www.framinghamma.gov/3345/Anonymous-Crime-Tips.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous post Chicago Cubs believe they remain in the mix for superstar Shohei Ohtani: ‘We have not been given a status check’
Next post First Financial Corp IN Has $424,000 Holdings in NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE)