Jewish Man Attacked in Brooklyn as Antisemitism Surges in New York City
A Jewish father of five was brutally beaten in front of his own home in Brooklyn, New York, as antisemitism continues to rise across the city. The incident occurred on the first night of Hanukkah, highlighting the alarming increase in hate crimes targeting the Jewish community. This article will provide details of the attack, including the victim’s account, and shed light on another antisemitic incident that took place in Brooklyn. The NYPD is actively investigating both cases and seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspects.
Jewish Father of Five Assaulted in Brooklyn
Joshua Merenfeld, a 40-year-old Jewish man, was dressed in religious garb and enjoying the first night of Hanukkah when an unknown assailant attacked him in his front yard in Crown Heights. The attacker repeatedly pummeled Merenfeld, knocked him over, and stomped on him while spewing antisemitic slurs. Merenfeld described the assault as a “real beating” and expressed his shock at such a brazen attack happening in his own well-lit neighborhood.
Suspect Flees with Victim’s Phone
During the attack, the assailant used antisemitic terminology and profanities. As Merenfeld lay on the ground, the suspect snatched his phone and fled the scene. The masked suspect was later spotted entering the Kingston Avenue and Eastern Parkway subway station.
 Another Antisemitic Incident Captured on CCTV
 Robbery of Traditional Jewish Headpiece
The NYPD released video footage of another antisemitic incident that occurred in Brooklyn. A 20-year-old Hasidic man wearing a $2,500 traditional fur headpiece called shtreimel was robbed in broad daylight. CCTV cameras captured the moment when the victim was approached by a man on a moped in the Borough Park neighborhood. After a brief interaction, the suspect grabbed the victim’s shtreimel and rode away with it.
 Ongoing Investigations and Public Assistance
Both cases are currently under investigation by the NYPD, who have urged the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the suspects involved in these hate crimes.
Alarming Rise in Antisemitic Incidents
Recent Attack in Manhattan’s Financial District
These incidents are part of a disturbing trend of antisemitic attacks plaguing New York City. Just last week, a 66-year-old man was beaten by a male assailant shouting antisemitic slurs at a Duane Reade store in Manhattan’s Financial District. The surge in hate crimes targeting the Jewish and Muslim communities has seen a 250% increase in the past two months, coinciding with the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Mayor Eric Adams Addresses Hate Crimes
Unity Against Hatred and Religious Intolerance
Mayor Eric Adams addressed the rise in hate crimes during a Hanukkah rally event, emphasizing the importance of standing together against hatred and religious intolerance. He acknowledged the NYPD’s commitment to remaining on high alert throughout the Hanukkah season to ensure the safety of all communities.
Conclusion:
The recent attack on a Jewish man in Brooklyn highlights the urgent need to address and combat antisemitism in New York City. The rise in hate crimes targeting the Jewish community is deeply concerning, and it is crucial for law enforcement and the public to work together to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. Mayor Eric Adams’ call for unity against hatred serves as a reminder that solidarity is essential in combating religious intolerance and creating a safer city for all.
