New York, NY, May 26, 2017 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today condemned the anti-Semitic vandalism of a home for sale in Rockland County where graffiti reading “No Jews” and “No J” was found spray-painted in large black letters from floor to ceiling throughout the house.

According to reports, the defacement of the house in Haverstraw took place on May 23. Other parts of the home including floors, kitchen cabinets and appliances were also damaged.

“We condemn this brazen anti-Semitic crime in Rockland County which was designed to send a message of fear and intimidation not just to the victim, but also to the broader community,” said Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director. “The vandalism of a home for sale in a county with a rapidly growing Jewish community sends a deplorable message that Jews are not welcome. We expect that community leaders and elected officials will make clear that all are welcome in Rockland and that anti-Semitism and bigotry have no place in our communities.”

Mr. Bernstein added, “We have also reached out to Haverstraw Police Department to offer our assistance and urge that they investigate this incident as a possible hate crime.”

In November, 2016, the words “No Jews” were spray-painted onto a realtor’s sign and two vacant homes only three miles away from where this incident took place. This incident comes amid a surge of anti-Jewish vandalism across New York State.

ADL’s annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents found a 50 percent increase in instances of anti-Jewish vandalism across New York State from 2015 to 2016.

 

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