Police are investigating after anti-Semitic graffiti was drawn in Bedmond and Borehamwood.
Firstly, just before 7pm on Sunday (October 1), the graffiti written in black spray paint on the wall of Bedmond Sports and Social Club, off Meadow Way, was reported to Herts Police.
They confirmed that officers are investigating and launched an appeal for witnesses and information. The force added that the parish council has been contacted and will be removing the graffiti.
Sergeant Jon Brown said: “The Jewish community are currently celebrating the seven days of Sukkot, a time of joy and happiness following the solemnity of Yom Kippur and marking the end of the High Holidays, so it is hugely disappointing that they have been targeted in these incidents.
“Our Jewish friends are a very important part of the diverse fabric of Hertfordshire’s community as a whole and we do not – and will never – tolerate prejudice against them, or any other group with protected characteristics.”
While initial enquiries are underway, he asked anyone with information about the graffiti to get in touch by quoting reference 41/78618/23.
The sergeant added that Abbots Langley’s safer neighbourhood team strives to maintain good working relationships with religious communities “so they know who to turn to if they are the victims of a hate crime or incident”.
Herts Police highlighted that they have dedicated Hate Crime Officers that victims can request contact from when reporting a crime or incident, for support.
It followed similar graffiti being found in Borehamwood, reported just after 10.30am on the same day (October 1).
Around 50 to 60 yards from the Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue, on the pavement of Croxdale Road, anti-Semitic graffiti had been drawn in chalk.
It has since been removed and is being investigated by the Hertsmere Safer Neighbourhood Team. Additional patrols in the vicinity have been planned for times of worship.
Information relevant to the Borehamwood graffiti can be reported by quoting the reference ISR 216 of 1 October.
In both cases, information can be reported online or by calling the non-emergency number 101. It can also be provided anonymously by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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