FBI Investigating After Nearly 200 Gravestones at Two Jewish Cemeteries Are Vandalized

Cincinnati, OH — The FBI has launched an investigation following the vandalism of nearly 200 gravestones at two Jewish cemeteries in Cincinnati. The desecration occurred at the Tifereth Israel and Beth Hamedrash Hagadol cemeteries, both part of the Covedale Cemetery complex. The vandalism is believed to have taken place between June 25 and July 1, with the damage discovered early Monday morning.

Authorities, including local law enforcement and the FBI, are actively investigating the incident. As of Wednesday morning, no arrests have been made. The Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati and the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati have expressed profound sorrow and anger over the vandalism. They highlighted the difficulty in identifying the toppled gravestones, many of which were found face down and some in pieces, scattered across the cemetery grounds.

In a statement, the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati conveyed solidarity with the affected families and emphasized the community's determination to restore the sanctity of the desecrated sites. "We are heartbroken by this senseless act of vandalism," the federation stated. "Our community stands united in the face of such hatred, and we are committed to repairing the damage and honoring the memories of those laid to rest here."

The vandalism comes amid a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents across the United States. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), there has been a 140% increase in antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and assaults over the past year. The ADL's latest data reveals that incidents of antisemitism reached a record high of 3,698 in 2023, the highest number since the organization began tracking such acts in 1979. This surge has been notably pronounced following the terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati has urged anyone with information about the vandalism to come forward and assist in the investigation. "We call on members of the community to help us bring those responsible to justice," the federation stated. "This act of hatred affects us all, and we must work together to ensure it does not go unpunished."

Local leaders have also condemned the vandalism. Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval described the incident as "a despicable act of hatred" and pledged the city's support in the investigation. "We will not tolerate such acts of bigotry in our community," Pureval said. "Our thoughts are with the families affected by this senseless act, and we will do everything in our power to ensure those responsible are held accountable."

The desecration of the cemeteries has sparked outrage and sadness among community members. Many have expressed their shock and disbelief that such an act could occur in their city. "It's heartbreaking to see such disrespect for the dead," said local resident Sarah Goldstein. "These cemeteries are sacred places, and to see them defiled in this way is deeply distressing."

In response to the vandalism, the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati has announced plans to organize a community cleanup effort to repair the damaged gravestones and restore the cemeteries. "We will come together to heal and rebuild," the federation stated. "Our community is resilient, and we will not let this act of hatred define us."

As the investigation continues, the Jewish community in Cincinnati remains resolute in its commitment to combating antisemitism and preserving the sanctity of its burial grounds. The FBI and local law enforcement are urging anyone with information about the vandalism to contact them immediately.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of antisemitism and the importance of standing together against hate in all its forms.