Just past 7:30 am on Saturday, August 24, Newtown Police discovered anti-semitic graffiti on the front and side walls of the Adath Israel Synagogue, 115 Huntingtown Road, during routine building checks.

According to the Newtown Police Department Facebook page, “An investigation into the incident has commenced and the Newtown Police Department is working in conjunction with the officials from the synagogue to insure their safety and address their concerns. At this time the Town has provided assistance from its Public Works Department to remove the graffiti and repaint the damaged areas of the Synagogue prior to the start of scheduled services.

Chief of Police James Viadero has been in contact with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and they have offered a reward of up to $2500 for information that would lead to the arrest and conviction of the suspect or suspects responsible for this disturbing crime. As an agency we are extremely disturbed at this act of defacing a house of worship, in particular the meaning and symbolism painted on the walls of the synagogue espouse hatred which is not indicative of this community. This serious hate crime will be given the full attention of this agency, while utilizing other law enforcement resources to determine the identity of those responsible. The congregation has been [ensured] that enhanced patrols will continue in the area and that there will be a police presence during scheduled services.

Anyone with information on this crime is asked to contact the Newtown Police Department at 203-270-4255.

First Selectman Dan Rosenthal commented, ‘This morning I viewed the hateful desecration of Congregation Adath Israel with sadness. The congregants of Adath Israel have contributed to the fabric of this community immeasurably for over 100 years. Newtown has always been a place where people of all religions are welcome and have worked together hand in hand to build a better community and the hateful actions of an individual or individuals will not change that. I look forward to personally asking the courts to offer no leniency when the vile individual is apprehended.’”

Adath Israel Synagogue —Newtown Police Department photo