New York, NY, June 12, 2014 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today commended New York State Police for their “swift and effective response” on the arrest of two suspects allegedly responsible for spraying anti-Semitic and racist graffiti on businesses and government property in Whitehall, New York.

Shane Smith and Devin Morris, both 17 of Washington County, were arrested on June 11 and charged with felony criminal mischief for graffiti which included a multitude of swastikas, racial slurs against African-Americans, anti-Semitic remarks, the letters “NYND” which stands for “New York Nazi Division,” “Burn Jews,” and “Kill N——.”

Smith is reportedly the creator of the Facebook page “NYND,” a forum for posts promoting and encouraging violence against Jews and African-Americans. Facebook subsequently removed the page.

“These arrests serve as a reminder that hate still exists right in our own neighborhoods,” said Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director.  “The posts on Smith’s Facebook page reflect an individual infected with racism and anti-Semitism.”

Mr. Bernstein added, “New York is not immune to anti-Semitism and racism, and there still remains a significant amount of work to be done to ensure that bigotry of any kind is not given a voice, and we commend the New York State Police for their swift and effective response.”

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.  Follow us on Twitter @ADL_NY