Four Newton homes with “We Stand With Israel” lawn signs woke up to the same ugly surprise this week: small bags of dog feces left beside their displays, and in one case, a sign yanked out and smeared with a red substance. The incidents, which took place Thursday and Friday in several neighborhoods, have some residents saying they feel not just targeted, but threatened. Newton police say they have stepped up patrols in the affected areas while they investigate.
In a statement, Newton police said that in each reported case “small bags of dog feces were placed near the signs” and confirmed that one sign was removed and defaced with what appeared to be a red substance, according to WCVB. The department told the outlet it is running directed patrols and boosting visibility in the neighborhoods where the signs were hit. Officers are asking anyone with information to contact the Community Services Bureau at 617‑796‑2103, the anonymous tip line at 617‑796‑2121, the non‑emergency line at 617‑796‑2100, or by calling or texting 911.
Signs part of a broader pattern
This is not the first time pro‑Israel displays have been targeted in Newton. In March 2024, local coverage detailed a wave of vandalism in which pro‑Israel signs and posters were defaced, stolen, or damaged; in one widely reported case, a wall of hostage posters was vandalized and later rededicated, The Boston Globe reported. That earlier string of incidents sparked community organizing and public condemnations from local officials. Neighbors have since worked to replace damaged signs and hold public events in response.
Police response and community concern
City officials have publicly denounced the vandalism and reiterated that safety is a top priority, Newton Beacon reported. Mayor Ruthanne Fuller has urged residents to stand together against antisemitism. Police Chief John Carmichael and other officials have said the city will add patrols and follow up on credible leads. Neighbors told reporters they are rattled by the latest incidents and are combing through home‑security footage for anything that might help investigators.
Legal implications
Under Massachusetts law, property damage or intimidation tied to a victim's religion or another protected characteristic can qualify as a hate crime if investigators can show an underlying offense along with an intent to intimidate, and victims may also pursue civil remedies, according to Mass.gov. As they review surveillance and other evidence, investigators will be weighing whether bias appears to have played a role.
What residents can do
Officials are asking residents with door‑cam or security footage from Thursday and Friday to preserve it and share anything suspicious with Newton police rather than confronting potential suspects themselves. Community groups say neighbors can help by supporting affected households, reporting incidents quickly, and documenting any damage so investigators can determine whether these latest acts are isolated or part of a continuing pattern.
