Police: Man Wanted For Urinating On Synagogue
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Police are seeking the public's help in locating a man they say urinated in front of the doors of a synagogue in the Somerton section of Philadelphia.
The incident happened at 12:30 a.m. Sunday at the Congregation Beth Solomon at 198 Tomlinson Rd.
Police say the man approached the front doors of the synagogue, made an obscene gesture in the direction of a camera, and then proceeded to urinate on the walls and sidewalk in front of the synagogue's doors.
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Authorities say he then got into the passenger seat of a white four-door sedan and fled the scene.
The suspect is described as a 20-year-old man, with a thin build, light complexion, short beard, black hair, and wearing a white shirt and jeans.
The Anti-Defamation League says this is the third time in less than a year the synagogue has been vandalized.
"We are revolted by this most recent display of anti-Semitism in Northeast Philadelphia," said Nancy K. Baron-Baer, the group's regional director. "We've seen vandalism targeting Jewish institutions in the region before, but this latest incident turns the stomach. The amount of hate a person must feel to desecrate a house of worship in this way is incomprehensible and contemptible."
Police urge anyone that sees the suspect to not approach him but contact 911 immediately. There is also a tip-line available by calling 215-686-TIPS (8477) or by texting a tip to PPD TIP (773847). Online tips can be sent anonymously via this website.
Anyone with information about the incident or the people involved is asked to contact the Northeast Detective Division at 215-686-3153(3154).