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Police are investigating after swastikas were found spray-painted outside Wilbur Charter for Enriched Academics, an elementary school in Tarzana, on Sunday. The offensive symbols were discovered on a fence and outdoor artwork at the school, located on the 5200 block of Crebs Avenue. This incident follows a similar one last week when swastikas and anti-Jewish language were found at the entrance of Winnetka Avenue and the 101 Freeway, according to Sgt. Bruce Borihanh of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The recent vandalism is part of a troubling trend in the area. Just last weekend, the Israeli-American Council (IAC) national headquarters in Woodland Hills was also vandalized with antisemitic symbols, including swastikas and "SS" lightning bolts, as reported by NBC Los Angeles. The vandalism occurred at the Shepher Community Center, which serves as the IAC's Los Angeles offices and a community hub for Israeli-American and American Jewish communities.
Elan S. Carr, CEO of the IAC and former U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, expressed his dismay, stating, "We are appalled by this vile act of antisemitism at the doorstep of our own community and offices." He emphasized the organization's commitment to combating antisemitism and ensuring community safety, as noted by KTLA.
The LAPD is working with the IAC and reviewing security footage to identify suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact the LAPD. The connection between the incidents remains unclear, and police have not released any suspect information, as reported by VIN News.