Teen Indicted for Vandalizing Afula Synagogue After Family Dispute

A 15-year-old minor has been formally indicted for breaking into a synagogue in Afula, vandalizing holy books, and stealing a charity box following a family dispute.

According to the indictment filed by the Northern District Prosecutor's Office, the incident took place on October 19. Police received a distress call from an individual who arrived to open the synagogue and discovered smoke inside along with extensive property damage. Northern District police officers who rushed to the scene found sacred texts strewn on the floor and drenched in various liquids, while toilet paper rolls had been set on fire in the restroom.

Investigators quickly identified and apprehended the suspect. During questioning, the minor admitted that he committed the acts out of anger following an argument with his family. Furthermore, the investigation revealed that the vandalism was driven by hostility toward the Jewish public.

The Northern District Prosecutor's Office filed the formal charges against the teenager, including trespassing in a house of worship, malicious property damage motivated by racism, and theft.