Washington, DC, November 29, 2007 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) strongly condemned the recent reported vandalism of over 150 tombstones in B'nai Israel Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland. The cemetery suffered damage that includes broken stones and stones knocked over.  It is the burial place for over 2,000 from Baltimore's Jewish community.

"Such a violent desecration of a Jewish cemetery must be recognized as an attack on the community that cares for it. This act of anti-Jewish hate has inspired fear and a feeling of vulnerability," said Rachel Werner, ADL Assistant Regional Director. "When found, the perpetrators of this cowardly act should face the full extent of criminal penalties."

Hate crime statutes have been adopted by 45 states.  Many of those laws are based on a model statute crafted by ADL, which has long been in the forefront of national and state efforts to deter and counteract hate-motivated criminal activity.

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.