San Francisco, CA, February 3, 2005 ... The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today expressed outrage at the drawing of swastikas on the door and window of a synagogue in San Jose, CA this week.

Police say graffiti appeared on neighboring businesses and storefronts in addition to Congregation Am Echad in San Jose. Yesterday, the San Jose Police Department made an arrest in connection with the crime, which is currently being investigated as a possible hate crime.

Jonathan Bernstein, ADL San Francis co Regional Director, issued the following statement:

We are outraged by the possible hate crime against Congregation Am Echad. The drawing of swastikas on any Jewish institution is an act of intimidation and bigotry. We applaud the San Jose Police Department for investigating the crime and making an arrest. The Office of Mayor Ron Gonzalez has also taken the matter seriously, and shown support for both the Congregation and the community. The City of San Jose's swift and serious response to this vandalism is commendable.

ADL is working with local law enforcement and community members.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.