A man has been arrested for allegedly assaulting an elderly man while making antisemitic remarks.
The Beverly Hills Police Department has identified the suspect as Jarris Jay Silagi, a 44-year-old resident of Los Angeles. Silagi was apprehended after attempting to flee the scene.
The incident took place on Saturday morning at the intersection of North Rexford Drive and North Santa Monica Boulevard. Police received reports of an assault involving a deadly weapon. Upon arrival, officers discovered an elderly man with a head injury, resulting from being struck with a belt. The victim's wife was present during the attack, and he received immediate treatment at the scene.
The victim's son shared a photo on social media, showing his father's bloodied shirt. He explained that his parents were on their way to the synagogue for Sabbath services when the assault occurred. Remarkably, despite the ordeal, the victim managed to attend the services and even read from the Torah for the congregation, as confirmed by Rabbi Pini Dunner.
Silagi is facing multiple charges, including assault with a deadly weapon, attempted robbery, elder abuse, and a hate crime. He is currently being held at the Los Angeles County Jail on a $100,000 bail. His initial court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday.
Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark Stainbrook condemned the incident, stating, "This despicable act of hate against a member of our community will not be tolerated."
The rise in antisemitic attacks has been notable since Hamas initiated hostilities against Israel on October 7th, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and the capture of more than 200 individuals.
The victims of the attack, identified only as Raphy and Rebecca, recounted the terrifying experience to NBC 4. Rebecca described the assailant hitting her husband with a belt while shouting, "Give me your earrings, Jew." Raphy expressed his initial shock and the impact of the blow to his forehead, stating, "It was a huge hard knock on my forehead here."
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