A New Jersey township is investigating anti-Semitic vandalism after swastikas and Nazi references were found inside a former school, sparking outrage from officials and community leaders.
WEBDESK – HAJIRA IRFAN – NJNEWSLINE
Swastikas and ‘Heil Hitler’ Messages Found at N.J. School as Police Investigate Hate Crime
A disturbing act of vandalism inside a former New Jersey middle school has sparked a hate crime investigation after vandals allegedly left behind swastikas, racist messages and Nazi references, including the words “Heil Hitler.”
Jackson Township police are investigating the incident along with several other suspected bias-related cases reported in recent weeks. Officials said no arrests have been made, but investigators are working to identify those responsible and determine whether the incidents are connected.
Former Middle School Vandalized With Hate Symbols
The latest incident occurred on July 31 at the former Christa McAuliffe Middle School, a property recently purchased by Beth Medrash Govoha (BMG), a Jewish educational institution in nearby Lakewood.
According to police, vandals broke into the building and left offensive drawings, profanity and hateful symbols throughout multiple areas of the school. Investigators said the suspects moved through different parts of the building, with surveillance footage being reviewed as part of the investigation.
Among the graffiti discovered inside the building was the phrase “Heil Hitler,” along with swastikas and other offensive markings.
Jackson Police Chief Mary Nelson said the township is treating the incident with the seriousness it deserves and warned that acts of hate will not be accepted.
“We are not going to tolerate it,” Nelson said. “We are going to respond with the heaviest of hands. It is not welcomed in our town.”
Jewish Leaders Speak Out Against Vandalism
The incident has drawn strong reactions from community leaders who called the vandalism a troubling reminder of ongoing threats faced by targeted communities.
Rabbi Moshe Gleiberman, chief operating officer of BMG, said the attack highlights the importance of protecting Jewish institutions and standing against hate.
Civil rights advocates also condemned the incident, saying anti-Semitic and racist acts create fear within communities and require a united response from officials, residents and law enforcement.
The Anti-Defamation League’s New York/New Jersey chapter said the vandalism was especially concerning because it follows other reported incidents targeting Jewish organizations in the region.
Police Investigate Other Possible Bias Crimes
Jackson police are also looking into multiple incidents involving Chai Lifeline, a Jewish children’s health advocacy organization.
Officials said three separate incidents occurred on May 13, July 16 and July 26. In one case, a projectile was reportedly fired through a window, which investigators believe may have involved a BB gun.
Police are treating those incidents as possible bias-related crimes while continuing to gather evidence and search for suspects.
Rising Number of Bias Incidents Raises Concern
The investigation comes as Jackson has seen an increase in reported bias incidents.
Police records show 11 bias incidents were reported during the first half of 2026, putting the township on track to surpass the 20 cases recorded in 2022.
The number of reported incidents dropped to six in 2023 but increased again in subsequent years, with nine cases reported in 2025.
Officials say the recent incidents demonstrate the need for continued awareness and stronger efforts to prevent hate-based crimes.
Investigation Remains Active
Authorities continue to investigate the school vandalism and other suspected bias incidents across Jackson Township. Police are asking anyone with information to assist investigators.
The case comes shortly after swastikas were discovered inside a synagogue in neighboring Lakewood, adding to concerns among local communities about anti-Semitic acts.
For residents and officials, the message remains clear: hate symbols and acts of intimidation will not be ignored, and those responsible will be held accountable if identified.
