As police try to find out who spray painted posters with the faces of Israelis kidnapped by Hamas terrorists, the local cops are also investigating several other anti-Israel vandalism incidents.
Newton Police detectives and officers are investigating a string of anti-Israel hate and vandalism incidents over the last month. These instances include “We Stand with Israel” signs being defaced.
The police department is adding extra patrols in the wake of these incidents, while urging residents to remain vigilant — and if they “see something, say something” to police.
“Bias, hatred and targeting those for their personal beliefs can not and will not be tolerated by the Newton Police Department,” Police Chief John Carmichael said in a statement.
“Now is a time for solidarity to prevail in our community not divisiveness,” the chief added. “We ask the community to partner with us to identify the individual(s) responsible for these acts and help send the message that such hate has no place in Newton.”
The announcement of these anti-Israel hate and vandalism investigations comes after police responded to a Homer Street home for damaged Israeli kidnapping posters over the weekend.
The lawn signs with the names and faces of those held hostage for more than 5 months were defaced with black spray paint outside the home of Jeff and Miriam Kosowsky. Detectives have been canvassing the neighborhood, and police were asking neighbors to review any surveillance camera footage from Saturday to the early morning hours of Sunday.
This vandalism came just days after another hateful incident in Newton, said Mayor Ruthanne Fuller. A rock was reportedly thrown through a front door window of a home with a sign supporting Israel.
“Both the Newton Police and I take all hate incidents and hate crimes seriously,” the mayor said in a statement. “Newton Police are continuing their investigation of the premeditated destruction of posters and graffiti on private property in front of a home along Homer Street.”
“We as a community must stand together to condemn antisemitism and acts of hate and violence against anyone,” Fuller later added.
Police are also investigating five other instances of anti-Israel hate and vandalism since late last month. One home was targeted twice.
Police gave a brief description of the incidents:
- Feb. 22, Columbus Street: “We Stand with Israel” sign stolen from front porch of residence.
- Feb. 29, Beacon Street: “We Stand with Israel” sign defaced with red paint.
- March 6, Beacon Street: “We Stand with Israel” sign defaced with “Bombing Kids is Not Self-Defense” sticker. This is the same home that was targeted on Feb. 29.
- March 7, Beacon Street: “We Stand with Israel” sign defaced with “Bombing Kids is not self defense” sticker.
- March 7, Centre Street: “We Stand With Israel” sign defaced with “Bombing Kids is not self defense” sticker.
Police are urging anyone with information about the incidents to call the Newton Police tip line at 617-796-2121.