Police investigating two incidents of anti-Semitic graffiti in Hertfordshire over the weekend are appealing for information and witnesses.
The first was in Borehamwood, when just after 10.30am on Sunday 1 October it was reported that anti-Semitic graffiti had been found on the pavement in Croxdale Road.
The graffiti, which was found around 50 to 60 yards from the Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue, was drawn in chalk and has since been removed.
PCSO Chris Bodell, from the Hertsmere Safer Neighbourhood Team, is investigating and has already contacted the local Community Security Trust as part of his enquiries. Additional foot patrols have also been planned in the vicinity at times of worship.
If you have any information that could assist the investigation, please contact police quoting reference ISR 216 of 1 October.
The second incident was in Bedmond, when just before 7pm on Sunday 1 October it was reported that anti-Semitic graffiti had been found on the wall of Bedmond Sports and Social Club, off Meadow Way.
The Abbots Langley Safer Neighbourhood Team are investigating and have already linked in with partners at the parish council who will be removing the graffiti, which was written in black spray paint.
Sergeant Jon Brown said: “The Jewish community are currently celebrating the seven days of Sukkot, a time of joy and happiness following the solemnity of Yom Kippur and marking the end of the High Holidays, so it is hugely disappointing that they have been targeted in these incidents.
“Our Jewish friends are a very important part of the diverse fabric of Hertfordshire’s community as a whole and we do not – and will never – tolerate prejudice against them, or any other group with protected characteristics.
“As part of our role as a Safer Neighbourhood Team, we strive to maintain good working relationships with the religious communities in our areas, so they know who to turn to if they are the victims of a hate crime or incident.
“We are already conducting initial enquiries but if you have any information about this incident, then please contact us quoting reference 41/78618/23.”
