Man arrested following report of anti-semitic incident

A man has been arrested after an incident outside a synagogue in Borehamwood.

On Friday (13 March), police received a report that a man had been pushed, threatened with a screwdriver and subjected to antisemitic verbal abuse and threats.

The incident took place on Furzehill Road at around 5.30pm.

Officers from the Hertsmere Response Team quickly arrested a suspect on suspicion of a religiously/racially aggravated public order offence and being in possession of an offensive weapon.

The suspect, a 55 year old man from Borehamwood, has been bailed while an investigation is carried out.

Sergeant Andrew Amabilino, from the Borehamwood and Elstree Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This was understandably a distressing incident for the victim and the wider community. We are treating it as a hate crime and the victim is being supported. Increased patrols around places of worship are already in place and this will continue.

“Anti-semitism will not be tolerated and we will always take action against it. The suspect was arrested whilst the victim was still in synagogue and I hope this swift action is reassuring to our Jewish community.”

Hertfordshire Constabulary have dedicated Hate Crime Officers (HCOs) who offer support to victims of hate crime or incidents. You can request to be contacted by an HCO at the time of reporting a crime or incident. They will meet victims in a place where they feel comfortable and safe, explain their options and assist them throughout an investigation, or if the case goes to court. For more, visit hertsagainsthate.org