Lodi NJ Man Accused of Vandalism, Arson at Jewish Temples in New Jersey

A man from Lodi NJ has been convicted of terrorism in connection with his vandalism of several Jewish temples located throughout New Jersey. Additionally, the suspect also committed the extremely violent act of firebombing the residence of a rabbi.

The suspect’s crime spree occurred at the end of 2011 and the beginning of 2012. According to Bergen County law enforcement, the suspect’s first criminal act was vandalizing Temple Beth Israel in Maywood, New Jersey. Authorities said that the suspect spray-painted anti-Semitic messages outside the building.

The suspect committed another act of vandalism at Temple Beth El, which is located in Hackensack, New Jersey.

In January 2012, the suspect and another man allegedly tried to set fire to Temple K’Hal Adath Jeshurun in Paramus, NJ.

The suspect also allegedly planned to throw a Molotov cocktail at the Jewish Community Center in Paramus, only to abandon his criminal plan when he noticed a police officer driving by the area.

The crime spree ended on January 11, 2012, when the suspect went to the home of a rabbi and firebombed the residence. At the time, there were nine people inside the house, which is located next door to Congregation Beth El.

The suspect, a 24-year-old male from Lodi NJ, reportedly confessed to police officers shortly after being placed under arrest.

At the conclusion of a trial in Bergen County Superior Court, which is located in Hackensack NJ, a jury convicted the suspect on 20 criminal charges, including terrorism. However, the suspect was acquitted on charges of attempted murder and aggravated arson.

When the suspect returns to Bergen County Superior Court in July for sentencing, he will be subject to a penalty of 30 years in NJ State Prison.

To learn more about this case, read the NorthJersey.com article, “Firebomber Guilty of Terrorism.”