Toronto police are currently looking into the theft of Jewish prayer scrolls from three condominiums in North York. The stolen items, known as mezuzahs, hold religious significance and are commonly affixed to home doorposts as a representation of the Jewish faith. The incident occurred just before 12:30 p.m. on Christmas day, with three mezuzahs taken from units near Finch Avenue E. and Bayview Avenue.
Ashley Visser, spokesperson for the Toronto Police Service (TPS), confirmed the ongoing investigation and noted that the hate crime unit has been informed. Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger, a resident in one of the targeted buildings, expressed distress upon learning about the stolen mezuzahs, emphasizing their significance in representing Jewish identity and faith openly.
Leipciger voiced concerns about the security of the building, suggesting the installation of security cameras and enhanced safety measures to reassure residents. He highlighted a sense of vulnerability and urged proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The recent theft is the first of its kind at this location, according to Visser.
In a separate incident earlier this month, approximately 20 mezuzahs were reported stolen from a Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation building near Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue W. Leipciger stressed the importance of identifying those responsible to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of the community.
Councillor James Pasternak of York Centre denounced the thefts as acts of hate, emphasizing the need to combat such intolerance in the city. He expressed shock and disgust at the incident and called for swift action to apprehend the perpetrator. Pasternak highlighted Toronto’s reputation as a haven for diverse cultures and religions, underlining the importance of safeguarding the ability to practice faith without fear.
Rabbi Jennifer Gorman, president of the Toronto Board of Rabbis, addressed residents during a Shabbat service, reflecting on the changing landscape of Canada and the need for protection of religious freedoms. Holocaust survivor Judy Cohen urged unity within the community to prevent further acts of intolerance, emphasizing the collective responsibility to address such issues.
Councillor Shelley Carroll of Don Valley North and Chair of the Toronto Police Service Board described the incident as alarming and emphasized the need for community solidarity to address the situation. Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the theft as an act of antisemitism and reassured Jewish residents of Toronto’s commitment to ensuring their safety and security.
The investigation into the stolen prayer scrolls is ongoing, with authorities treating the matter as a hate crime. The community remains resilient despite the unsettling events, with a call for unity and vigilance against acts of discrimination and prejudice.