Chicago, IL, March 4, 2009 …The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) condemned the anti-Semitic graffiti found at Ohave Shalom Synagogue, home to the Jewish Federation of Rockford, Illinois. The perpetrator(s) spray-painted a swastika, a crossed out Jewish star, and the word "Kike" on the double doors at the entrance to synagogue.

"We deplore this despicable and cowardly act of anti-Semitism which deeply impacts the entire Jewish community and the community at large," said Lonnie Nasatir, ADL Chicago Regional Director.  "This intolerable act was perpetrated by individual(s) who have complete disregard for sacred Jewish institutions.  The Jewish community will not surrender to the acts of cowards, and will continue to remain vigilant.  We applaud the Rockford Police Department for taking this incident seriously and investigating it as a potential hate crime.  We hope that the perpetrator(s) will be brought to justice."

The League is in contact and will be working closely with law enforcement and the community as the investigation proceeds.  ADL experts are providing information and assistance to investigators working to solve the case.