Washington, DC September 17, 2010 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) applauded Georgetown University administration and the Department of Public Safety for their rigorous investigation and swift apprehension of a suspect in the recent bias related graffiti incidents on campus.  On September 6 and 11, the alleged perpetrator reportedly drew swastikas and the word "Hitler" on doors and white boards in two on-campus dorms. 

"We commend University officials and campus law enforcement for responding with a sense of urgency and a clear understanding that these incidents, coming so close to the Jewish High Holidays, demanded a swift and forceful response," said David Friedman, Washington, DC Regional Director.  "The University's response sent a clear and unequivocal message that Georgetown will not tolerate hate crimes and expressions of bigotry".

Hate crime statutes have been adopted by 45 states and the District of Columbia.  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.