Police Arrest Two Teens for Hate Crime Graffiti

The Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) has announced the arrests of two teens  for vandalism and hate crime graffiti that occurred last month.

During the investigation of these incidents, police said they were able to obtain video surveillance and a School Resource Officer helped identify the suspects as students at a local school.

According to police, a 16-year-old suspect and 17-year-old suspect were charged with the three incidents on May 8. Police said they believe the suspects may be responsible for a number of other vandalism incidents that occurred last month in the Potomac and Rockville areas.

At a press conference to announce the arrests on May 9, Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett thanked investigators for their work. 

Police Chief Manger at 5/9/2014 Press Conference
Photo | MCP

“We strongly value diversity in Montgomery County and our partnership with our faith community,” said Leggett. “Hate-based acts and crimes will not be tolerated in Montgomery County.”

Police Chief Manger described the incidents as hurtful and ugly.

“These crimes will not be tolerated by our community or the police,” Manger said. “Our gratitude goes out to Rabbi Singer and all of the members of his congregation for their support and assistance. I also thank Sgt. Rosario and his team for their investigation and arrests.”

Rabbi Yosef Singer of Congregation Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac thanked the police department by saying: “We wish to express our profound gratitude to Montgomery County Police Chief Tom Manger and his staff for the hard work and professionalism they displayed in apprehending the perpetrators of the recent act of anti-Semitic vandalism committed against our synagogue and community. We are especially appreciative of their genuine concern for the sensitivities of the Jewish community. The quick and effective response of the MCPD show that these acts of hatred will not be tolerated.”

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