UPDATE: Police have arrested a man accused of vandalizing a menorah built by a Holocaust survivor outside a synagogue in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Austin Smalls, 29, turned himself in on January 16, 2024, following a warrant issued by authorities, according to the Bridgeport Police Department.
The charges against Smalls include third-degree criminal mischief and disorderly conduct, stemming from an incident that occurred around 3 a.m. on December 24, 2023, at the Congregation B’nai Israel on Park Avenue. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Smalls arriving in his vehicle and violently rocking the menorah until it toppled and shattered. This disturbing act has drawn widespread condemnation and highlights the ongoing issues of hate and vandalism against religious symbols.
Shortly after the vandalism, Smalls was arrested in connection with an unrelated incident several miles away. Police confirmed he was driving the same vehicle and wearing the same clothing as seen in the synagogue footage. This incident had not been reported to authorities at the time of his arrest.
In a heartfelt social media post, Senior Rabbi Evan Schultz shared the emotional impact of the vandalism, stating, “To deepen the wound, that menorah was built by the wonderful grandfather of children who grew up here at B’nai Israel. He built this menorah as a gift to the synagogue, crafted by his own two hands.” Rabbi Schultz noted that the menorah was found in pieces and entangled in bushes, symbolizing a deeper sense of loss within the community.
The judge who signed the warrant for Smalls’ arrest has mandated that he stay away from the synagogue. Smalls is currently free on a promise to appear and is scheduled for court on February 10, 2024.
This incident not only highlights individual acts of vandalism but also raises questions about community safety and the protection of cultural symbols. Authorities urge anyone with information about this case to come forward. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community of Bridgeport stands united in memory of the menorah’s significance and the shared values it represents.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
