July 7, 2020 By Allie Griffin
The NYPD is investigating an anti-Semitic act of vandalism in Forest Hills in which a swastika was carved into the hood of a parked car Thursday.
A 61-year-old man discovered a swastika scratched into the hood of his vehicle–and his two passenger side tires punctured– on July 3, after he parked it near 64th Road and 102nd Street a day earlier.
Local elected officials condemned the act of vandalism in the neighborhood, which has a large Jewish community.
“We are disgusted to learn about this reprehensible crime,” Congresswoman Grace Meng, State Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky, Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi and Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz said in a joint statement.
“While the owner of the vandalized vehicle may not have been Jewish, we cannot ignore the particular malice behind this incident – which occurred in an area that is home to one of the largest Jewish populations in New York City,” they said.
The officials said the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating the incident and thanked the 112th Precinct for its swift response.
“Let there be no confusion: we stand together against any and all forms anti-Antisemitism, racism, bigotry, and hate – and we will maintain Queens’ standing as a borough that welcomes all, regardless of religion, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity,” they said.
