Newton police investigating latest in growing list of antisemitic incidents

Newton police are investing the latest in a series of vandalism targeting homes with pro-Israel posters.

Investigators on Wednesday received a report of a home on Botsford Road that was “maliciously damaged” by a rock thrown through a front window where a “Stand With Israel” sign was displayed. Newton police said the homeowners were on vacation when the incident happened, but they believe it occurred sometime between Feb. 14 and March 20. 

According to a Boston 25 News report, homeowners Tsion and Nina Levy were returning home from their trip when they discovered the broken window. The couple then spotted a rock lying on the floor of their living room, next to broken glass. The Levys told local media they have relatives living in Israel, and the sign supports their family.

According to investigators, it’s the eighth instance in the last two months that vandalism has taken place at homes displaying pro-Israel signs. Most recently, on March 7, two “We Stand With Israel” posters were defaced with stickers that said, “Bombing Kids is not self-defense.” Similar posters were defaced in February, and one was stolen from a porch. Investigators said it’s unclear if this latest incident is directly connected to the others.

Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller released a statement earlier this week condemning the activity. 

“Antisemitic and hate incidents are on the rise. Across the country these incidents and crimes are targeting Jews, Palestinians, Muslims, Blacks, Asians, immigrants, members of the LGBTQ+ community and more,” Mayor Fuller said. “We as a community must stand together to condemn antisemitism and acts of hate and violence against anyone.”

Newton police added extra patrols and asked residents to report suspicious activity. Anyone with information can call the Newton police tip line at 617-796-2121

“Bias, hatred and targeting those for their personal beliefs can not and will not be tolerated by the Newton Police Department,” said Chief John Carmichael. “Now is a time for solidarity to prevail in our community, not divisiveness. 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.”