Montgomery County Police announced Friday they have charged two 16-year-old boys for drawing anti-Semitic graffiti on a synagogue in Potomac and three vehicles.
Police said the boys drew a swastika and “All Jews Burn” on two buses at the Montgomery Child Care Association at 11614 Seven Locks Road, a swastika on the synagogue sign at Young Israel of Potomac at 11618 Seven Locks Road, and a “SS” and a swastika on the windshield of a vehicle in the 11100 block of Old Coach Road in Rockville. The incidents were reported to police between April 18 and April 21.
A school resource officer at a local high school was able to identify the boys after they were caught on a surveillance video, police said. Police declined to identify which high school the boys attend.
The boys are also suspected of being involved in a number of other vandalism incidents in the area that occurred in April, according to police.
Police Chief Tom Manger said in a statement these acts were “Particularly ugly and hurtful acts of hate.” He added, “These crimes will not be tolerated by our community or the police.”
Rabbi Yosef Singer of Congregation Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac thanked police in the statement, “We are especially appreciative of their genuine concern for the sensitivities of the Jewish community.”
County Executive Isiah Leggett also thanked police.
“We strongly value diversity in Montgomery County and our partnership with our faith community,” Legget said in a statement. “Hate-based acts and crimes will not be tolerated in Montgomery County.”
Police also announced on Twitter Friday afternoon they have arrested a suspect in the Northwest Branch Trail rape case and are currently interviewing the suspect.
Update: Suspect in Monday's Northwest Branch Trail rape in custody. Currently being interviewed. No further details at this time.
— Montgomery Co Police (@mcpnews) May 9, 2014
Investigation into Northwest Branch Trail rape is ongoing. Hope to release more details prior to midnight.
— Montgomery Co Police (@mcpnews) May 9, 2014
