Deputies Search For Suspects After JeffCo Synagogue Vandalized
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4)- The search is on for the suspects who vandalized a synagogue in Jefferson County with anti-Semitic graffiti for the second time in a week.
Investigators are trying to figure out if the vandalism at Reform Jewish Congregation is connected to similar incidents in communities along the Front Range.
The vandalism includes swastikas and other symbols of hate.
"Never expected anything like this I imagine, not in a million years," said Congregation B'Nai Chaim spokesman Robbe Sokolove. "The swastika is a painful reminder that six million Jews were exterminated by Hitler during WWII."
"I think it's appalling. All the neighbors were shocked and hopefully they'll catch whoever did it," said Jefferson County resident Gary Thomas.
The temple is one of many that have been targeted. Last month a menorah was defaced in Colorado Springs at the home of a rabbi.
"This is a very despicable and horrifying act and to say this is unacceptable to say the least it's very disturbing," said Chabad Lubavitch Rabbi Moshe Liberow.
Surveillance cameras are being installed at the synagogue and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is keeping a close watch on the temple.
Last week another swastika was found on a non-Jewish building along Boulder's Pearl Street Mall.
The Anti-Defamation League is concerned about the recent graffiti.
"These are messaged crimes going out to the entire community and especially Jewish institutions saying they are not welcome in this community and we know that's not true," said Anti-Defamation League spokesman Scott Levin.
