Marblehead Police are investigating the latest case of antisemitic graffiti in town. On the morning of July 15, officers “took a report of graffiti to a park bench located at Fountain Park (51 Orne St.),” Chief Dennis King told the Current. The graffiti was found on a memorial bench, but King declined to comment further.
“The graffiti was documented and mostly removed. It is antisemitic in content and we are investigating.”
King says he will notify the Anti-Defamation League, which tracks antisemitic incidents. He asks anyone with information to call Detective Sgt. Sean Brady at 781-631-1212, ext. 25.
Last week, King said five juveniles had been charged in court in connection with two other cases of antisemitic and homophobic graffiti discovered at the Village and old Coffin schools in March.
Police are also investigating possible vandalism at the new pride art sidewalk near the Chamber of Commerce Information Booth on Pleasant Street.
The Marblehead Task Force Against Discrimination issued a statement about the recent cases.
“The Task Force is increasingly concerned about the rise in reports of graffiti and defacement of
property in and around Marblehead, especially if symbols of hate are depicted. As always, we call on the people of Marblehead to extend respect and goodwill to all, without discrimination based on religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation gender identity, age, ability or status.”
Editor Leigh Blander is an experienced TV, radio and print journalist who has written hundreds of stories for local newspapers, including the Marblehead Reporter.