A 41-year-old man is detained when tombstone markers in a Jewish cemetery in Kent are vandalized.

A man has been apprehended following an incident of vandalism that targeted gravestones in a Jewish cemetery located in Kent. The investigation by authorities, considered a hate crime, is focused on Chatham Memorial Synagogue in Rochester, where the damage is estimated to be around £19,000. On August 25, Kent Police arrested a 41-year-old local resident on suspicion of criminal damage. The destruction is believed to have occurred between August 15 and August 18.

Dalia Halpern-Matthews, the chair of trustees for the synagogue, stated that this marks the fifth instance of the community being subjected to such an attack within a decade, with the most recent prior occurrence happening in 2019. She expressed the community’s shock and distress, as one would expect people to show respect for different religions, the deceased, and historical heritage. The cemetery holds special significance as the only one connected to a synagogue in the country.

The synagogue’s website includes a plea for contributions to enhance security measures and restore the cemetery. Plans include the reinstallation of CCTV, improved security gates, and fencing. Superintendent Nick Sparkes of Kent Police confirmed that they are treating the incident as a hate crime and will maintain patrols in the area. Despite this setback, Halpern-Matthews emphasized the welcoming nature of the Medway area’s Jewish community, which actively collaborates with the broader community to break down barriers and counteract prejudices like anti-Semitism and racism.

Sparkes mentioned that such crimes are fortunately rare, but the recent incident has understandably caused significant distress among the local residents. The police have communicated with the cemetery management to offer advice on crime prevention measures. The authorities are urging witnesses to come forward, including those who might possess relevant footage from private CCTV systems, in order to aid the investigation. Information can be provided by calling 01634 792209 with reference to crime number 46/152042/23. Alternatively, individuals can provide anonymous tips through the charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or via their web form. For those interested in supporting the Chatham Memorial Synagogue, donations can be made at chathamshul.org.uk.