A 15-year-old has been taken into custody in connection with a series of antisemitic vandalism incidents at a Brooklyn playground, where nearly 60 swastikas were reported to have defaced the area, law enforcement said. Gravesend Park, a public space in Borough Park, Brooklyn, experienced two separate instances of hate-related graffiti within a 36-hour period.
The first incident was reported on Monday evening, when approximately 16 swastikas were found across the playground. About 36 hours later, the number of symbols discovered increased to nearly 60, appearing on slides, handball court walls, and sidewalks, CBS News reported. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the act as unacceptable and said that "those responsible will be investigated and held accountable."
Elected officials, including New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who has recently proposed legislation addressing antisemitism, have condemned the incidents. Menin and community leaders visited the affected park to show a collective response to the acts. The NYPD, which is conducting an investigation, has classified the offenses as aggravated harassment, ABC7NY reported.
Community members have expressed concern over the incidents. Barry Spitzer, district manager of Community Board 12, described the situation as deeply saddening, noting the normalization of such acts. Scott Richman, director of the Anti-Defamation League’s New York and New Jersey office, highlighted that the area is home to a significant number of Holocaust survivors, emphasizing the severity of the crimes. Richman told ABC7NY that the symbols involved are of concern not only to the Jewish community but to all New Yorkers.
The investigation is ongoing. While the park itself does not have surveillance cameras, nearby video footage may help identify those responsible. Governor Kathy Hochul has expressed support, offering assistance from the New York State Hate Crimes Task Force. Barry Spitzer said to CBS News that residents continue their routines while hoping the incidents cease.
