JCC of Northern Virginia Defaced in Hate Crime

Around 4:30 am on Saturday, October 6, the JCC of Northern Virginia was the target of an anti-Semitic hate crime for the second time in 18 months when 19 swastikas were spray-painted on the front of the community center in Fairfax.

Nineteen swastikas.

This despicable act, perpetrated in the dark of night and meant to induce fear, has instead galvanized a much broader community. We are saddened and angered that in 2018 such hatred exists in our region, and we stand in support with our Northern Virginia Jewish community.

We also applaud and support the efforts of the Fairfax County Police Department to identify the individual(s) involved and bring them to justice.

Surveillance video recorded the crime as it was being committed (click to view), and Fairfax County Police have released it in hopes that someone will recognize the perpetrator and come forward with information. A reward is being offered, and there are several ways to share information with the police:

Individuals can contact the Fairfax County Police, Mason District Station at 703-256-8035. Tips and information can be reported anonymously through Crime Solvers of Fairfax County Virginia.

  • Online: fairfaxcrimesolvers.org
  • Phone: 866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477)
  • Text: text “TIP187” and your message to 274637 (CRIMES)
  • Email: click here to send a web-based encrypted email

We condemn all acts of hatred and bigotry and will continue our efforts to teach tolerance and compassion and create a society which honors diversity and human dignity.

Photo: WAMU