BREAKING: Police have arrested Austin Smalls, a 29-year-old man from Bridgeport, Connecticut, accused of vandalizing a menorah built by a Holocaust survivor outside the Congregation B’nai Israel. Smalls turned himself in on January 2, 2024, following a police warrant for his arrest.
This incident, which occurred around 3 a.m. on December 24, 2023, has shocked the local community. Surveillance footage shows Smalls arriving in his vehicle and repeatedly rocking the menorah until it toppled over, shattering on the ground. The menorah, a significant symbol, was a personal gift crafted by the grandfather of children who grew up at the synagogue, as noted by Senior Rabbi Evan Schultz.
Rabbi Schultz expressed the pain of the act, stating, “To deepen the wound, that menorah was built by the wonderful grandfather of children who grew up here at B’nai Israel.” The emotional impact of this vandalism resonates deeply within the community, leaving many in disbelief over such a targeted attack on a symbol of faith and heritage.
Just hours after the vandalism, police apprehended Smalls for an unrelated incident several miles away, where he was found driving the same vehicle and wearing the same clothing as seen in the surveillance video. At that time, the menorah incident had not yet been reported.
Authorities have charged Smalls with third-degree criminal mischief and disorderly conduct. A judge has issued a protective order requiring him to stay away from the synagogue. He is currently free on a promise to appear, with a court date set for February 10, 2024.
The Bridgeport Police Department continues to investigate the incident, urging anyone with additional information to come forward. The community expresses a collective hope for healing and restoration as they seek to rebuild after this distressing event.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and more details emerge.
