New York, NY, June 12, 2015 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) expressed concern over the 29 percent citywide increase of anti-Semitic incidents reported this week by the NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task Force.  The NYPD reported 53 criminal anti-Semitic incidents in the first five months of 2015, an increase from 41 incidents during the previous period last year.

Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director, issued the following statement:

The increased number of reported anti-Semitic incidents is significant and troubling, but we do not believe it is cause for alarm.  Clearly, anti-Semitism has no place in New York City, and every incident is a reminder that we cannot be complacent.

The good news is that most of these incidents were low-level, non-violent offenses, including anti-Jewish graffiti and other forms of criminal mischief.  But each and every incident should be taken seriously.  NYPD’s approach — of proactive reporting, monitoring, prosecution and community engagement — serves as a model for how to address bias motivated crime, and we commend their efforts and their vigilance.”

According to the ADL’s Annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents, which tracks both criminal and non-criminal acts of anti-Semitism, New York State experienced a 14 percent increase in anti-Jewish incidents in 2014, including 147 acts in New York City. ADL works closely with law enforcement to ensure that bias attacks against Jews and all minorities are investigated and prosecuted as hate crimes when appropriate.

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