ADL Offers $2,000 Reward for Information on Swastika Graffiti Incidents around Ridgefield

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) announced today it is offering a $2,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for incidents of swastika graffiti around Ridgefield this week.

"According to police and other reports, five swastikas were found drawn on the outside of the Masonic Lodge and the Aldrich Museum in Ridgefield this week. They are believed to have been drawn by the same person. Swastikas were also discovered on a classroom door in Ridgefield High School in November, on a table at the high school in September, at Ballard Park last June, and outside Ridgefield High School last March," the ADL said in a press release. 

"We hope this reward facilitates the quick apprehension of whoever is behind this upsetting outbreak of swastika and hateful vandalism in Ridgefield," said Steve Ginsburg, ADL Connecticut Regional Director. "We commend the Ridgefield Police Department for investigating these hateful acts and First Selectman Marconi for his support. We cannot allow this despicable hateful vandalism to go unchecked in Ridgefield, or anywhere else."

Ridgefield Police Captain Jeff Kreitz said, "We are appreciative of the ADL for offering this reward, hopefully, it will assist us in finding the individual(s) responsible."

The ADL said that they led a program entitled "Strengthening the Bonds of our Community" for fifty Ridgefield town leaders, including Town department heads, members of the Board of Selectmen, the Board of Education, and the Board of Finance, as well as all of the school principals and the Superintendent of Schools. The ADL also conducted a World of Difference education program at Ridgefield High School.

In the first three quarters of 2017, ADL recorded 13 incidents of anti-Semitic vandalism across Connecticut, as well as a 106% increase in anti-Semitic incidents statewide.

Anyone with information about the vandalism is encouraged to call Detective Tom Dardis and Police Officer Anthony McMahon at (203) 438-6531. "If anyone has information and wishes to remain anonymous they are encouraged to call our anonymous tip line at 203-431-2345," said Captain Jeff Kreitz. 

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is devoted to fighting anti-Semitism, racism and other forms of bigotry, building bridges of understanding and safeguarding our liberties.