Thieves Steal, Damage Penn State Chabad Menorah Statue
A security camera shows suspects placing the vandalized menorah in front of the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity. Image by Courtesy of Chabad of Penn State
By Aiden Pink November 9, 2017
A giant menorah statue was stolen from outside Chabad of Penn State and was found damaged the next day in front of the building of the Sigma Alpha Mu Jewish fraternity.
The theft took place sometime on Friday, October 27, Chabad co-director Rabbi Hershy Gourarie said in a statement. A security camera reportedly showed four suspects. Gourarie said that the fraternity members themselves were not involved.
“The police have the footage and are doing everything possible to move the investigation forward as quickly as possible,” Gourarie said.
“This incident is being handled on the highest level and I would like to commend the university for their strong support and zero tolerance for acts of this nature,” he added.
The damage is estimated at around $1,800.
“Chabad’s response to this incident will be to rebuild the menorah and [an] increase in programming which will be aimed [at] fostering increased awareness and pride of our Jewish heritage,” Gourarie said.
Contact Aiden Pink at pink@forward.com or on Twitter, @aidenpink
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