SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged vandalism against the Jewish community in Topeka.
Late last week, officials with Temple Beth Sholom reported they discovered graffiti at the entrance of property, 4200 SW Munson in Topeka.
The graffiti featured a pro-Palestinian message. "Obviously, targeting American Jews for the actions of the Israeli government is antisemitism," the social media message the synagogue shared on their social media page.
"They have targeted other areas in Topeka, and all these incidents are under investigation by the Topeka Police Department and FBI."
"The graffiti was immediately reported to the authorities, and we have received reassurance from our law enforcement partners that there are no relevant threats to our congregation at this time."
"The Topeka Police Department and the FBI are in contact with Len Richter, Chair of the Security Committee. The Topeka Public Works department has already removed the graffiti on the request of Topeka Police Department."
Rabbi Samuel Stern wrote, "It is still my intention to hold our services, and for the life of the congregation to proceed as usual.We want to thank our office staff member for her diligence and many thanks are due to our supportive law enforcement partners."
In November police investigated a vandalism report at the Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity, 1116 Indiana Street, in Lawrence, Kansas, according to a media release from Lawrence Police. The Israeli Flag display at the house had been cut down and ripped up and later found about a block away.