ADL Condemns Cross Creek Cemetery No. 2 Desecrations In Fayetteville, NC

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) strongly condemned the recent reported vandalism of 17 headstones at Jewish graves in Fayetteville, North Carolina.  The cemetery suffered significant damage including headstones that were toppled or broken into pieces.  The vandals also appeared to have targeted the smaller markers inside the old Jewish cemetery at Cross Creek Cemetery No. 2.  A representative from the cemetery has stated that this is the third time in the past six months that Cross Creek Cemetery No. 2 has been vandalized.  Police have estimated that initial damages may reach up to $3,000. 

"A desecration of a Jewish cemetery must be recognized as an attack on the community that cares for it. This act of anti-Jewish hate is an attempt to inspire fear and a feeling of vulnerability," said Melissa Gluck , ADL Assistant Regional Director. "When found, the perpetrators should face the full extent of criminal penalties."

Hate crime statutes have been adopted by 45 states and the District of Columbia. Many of those laws are based on a model statue crafted by the 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.

SOURCE Anti-Defamation League

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