Boca Raton synagogue desecrated by vandals

A synagogue in Boca Raton, Florida has been desecrated by vandals who also daubed anti-Semitic slogans on its walls. Police said the vandals broke chairs and vases and left behind anti-Semitic and racist messages at Temple Beth El. The incident occurred during the night of Monday to Tuesday. Investigators found several messages scratched into doors in the temple's bathroom, including a swastika, "KKK" and"Hail Hitler."

The local rabbi, Dan Levin, said in a statement that the temple was working closely with police. "These events are not simply attacks on Temple Beth El and the Jewish community, but on the larger community in which we live. In spite of this event, we know that the fabric of this community, and the values we teach in our congregation, are stronger than any act of hatred can break."

The Anti-Defamation League's Florida section also issued a statement on the vandalism: "It is a reminder that anti-Semitism remains a current event here in our backyard," said Director Andrew L. Rosenkranz. "Attacks against houses of worship attempt to threaten, intimidate and harass entire communities, not just the Jewish community."

Police said that the same people might have also broken into the nearby Boca Raton Cemetery's chapel.