Two Arrested for Vandalizing Jewish Leaders' Homes in NYC

A second individual has been arrested in connection with antisemitic vandalism targeting the homes of two leaders from the Brooklyn Museum. Court records indicate that the suspect, identified as Seligson, was taken into custody on Tuesday and is currently on supervised release. Seligson is set to appear in Brooklyn Criminal Court in November, as the investigation continues, according to a spokesperson from the New York City Police Department. The first arrest occurred last week when 28-year-old Taylor Pelton was charged with similar offenses. Details surrounding the vandalism incidents date back to June 12, when red paint was splattered on the front doors and windows of museum leader Pasternak’s residence. The vandals also left a sign adorned with red handprints and painted red inverted triangles, a symbol associated with Hamas, on both Pasternak's and Trueblood's properties. The Anti-Defamation League has noted that the red inverted triangle is used to signify Israeli and Jewish targets. In total, 329 hate crime incidents were reported in New York City during the first half of 2024, with 200 specifically targeting Jewish individuals or institutions. In response to the arrests, a spokesperson for the Brooklyn Museum emphasized the importance of distinguishing between peaceful protest and criminal acts. The museum has a longstanding commitment to supporting artistic expression and fostering dialogue among diverse communities through art.