MINNEAPOLIS – Minneapolis police are looking for the suspect who marked a place of worship with swastikas on Monday morning.
It happened just after 7 a.m. at Temple Israel in Minneapolis. Surveillance cameras captured the suspect committing the crime and showed him leaving less than two minutes later in a silver Honda Civic.
“Hate crimes and crimes against our places of worship are particularly troubling because they can lead to widespread fear and contribute to potential divisions among our residents,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. “MPD will not tolerate this type of crime and will investigate it as a bias-based crime.”
Rabbi Marcia Zimmerman said they received it threatening phone calls in the past, but I can’t remember the last time someone spray-painted a swastika on the property.
“There’s an intensity and a terrible sense of hatred to that,” she said. “We must ensure that we do not allow this symbol of hate to define us or any religious community in their worship.”
More than 2,000 families worship at the Jewish temple, including Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon and the mayor of Minneapolis.
Mayor Jacob Frey said in a statement: “We do not shy away from fear. We stand strong, proud of who we are, and I know that Minneapolis – a city of inclusivity and love – stands with us.”
The vandalism comes as places of worship around the world face an increase in attacks and threats.
“Education is important. People need to see this happening in the community. We don’t want to be alarmists, but at the same time people need to be aware of it. Equally, if not more, important is the response,” Joods said. Steve Hunegs, executive director of the Community Relations Council.
While Minneapolis police investigate, Hanukkah celebrations are already underway, with increased security.
“The vibrancy was amazing. And that gives me hope. That’s really what brings me hope for tomorrow in the midst of this hate,” Zimmerman said.
Kirsten Mitchell
