Anti-Semitic graffiti. Photo: AJN file

WASHINGTON — The incidence of hate crimes in the United States during 2008 hit a seven-year high, according to data released by the FBI.

The 7783 documented hate crimes in 2008 represented a 2.1 per cent increase from 2007 and the highest since 2001.

Of the 1519 religion-based hate crimes, also at a seven-year high, 1013 — or 66 per cent — were directed against Jews and Jewish institutions.

The FBI report also found the highest number of crimes directed at blacks, Jews and gay men and lesbians since 2001.

ADL national director Abraham Foxman said: “While the increase in the number of hate crimes may be partially attributed to improved reporting, the fact that these numbers remain elevated — particularly the significant rise in the number of victims selected on the basis of religion or sexual orientation — should be of concern to every American.
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Protesters gather on the steps of City Hall in Hoboken, New Jersey, following the arrests.

NAOMI LEVIN

JEWS around the world have done some soul-searching after being confronted with images of American Orthodox Jews, including a number of rabbis, being led away handcuffed by FBI agents.

Police made 44 arrests last week in New Jersey on corruption-related charges. Among them were three mayors and 15 Orthodox Jews.

Accusations include a money-laundering operation that used methods such as cashing bad cheques through synagogue charities, political bribery and illegal organ brokering.
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