Security has been increased around Chicago Jewish institutions after two separate incidents of attempted arson and vandalism targeting local synagogues over the weekend.
Police confirmed that an unknown assailant twice attempted to set fire to Congregation Anshe Sholom B'nai Israel in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood overnight Saturday. Worshipers who arrived Sunday morning reported broken glass and charred black rags outside the building.
No one was injured and no damage was caused to the synagogue.
Chicago police later said they were also investigating vandalism outside a number of synagogues in the city's West Rogers Park neighborhood after windows of cars parked on the street were smashed.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said that Jewish institutions in the city would receive "special attention" while the string of suspected hate crimes were investigated.
The incidents in Chicago come on the heels of three arson attacks targeting Jewish centers in the greater Boston area.
The Anti-Defamation League issued a statement on Sunday following the reports of vandalism.
"While thankfully the attacks did not cause any injuries or damage, this incident is yet another disturbing reminder of the recent escalation in attacks against Jews and Jewish institutions," ADL Midwest Regional Director David Goldenberg wrote.
"ADL has been in close contact with community leaders and law enforcement and we will continue to monitor the investigation and provide support. We are thankful to the Chicago Police Department for its swift and professional response and call upon all local leaders to join us in speaking out against this hateful act," the statement concluded.
This article was originally published by i24NEWS. Read more at https://www.i24news.tv/en.
