Milwaukee Synagogue Vandalized; Hate Crime Probe Sought

Temple Menorah in Milwaukee was vandalized early Sunday, with multiple windows, glass doors, signage, and religious symbols damaged, causing losses exceeding $100,000. The suspect, known for previous disruptive behavior, was apprehended immediately after the incident, which was caught on surveillance video. Authorities and the Milwaukee Jewish Federation stated this was an isolated act, with no ongoing threat to the community. Rabbi Gil-Ezer Lerer condemned the vandalism as an act of hatred and noted a 459% rise in antisemitic incidents in Wisconsin since 2015. Synagogue leaders said services and activities will continue as usual, expressing appreciation for broad community support. The investigation continues, with calls for the attack to be prosecuted as a hate crime.