Local authorities and the FBI are investigating after nearly 200 gravestones at two Jewish cemeteries in Cincinnati were vandalized. The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati and the Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati reported that two sections of the Covedale Cemetery complex were targeted, with a total of 176 graves being knocked over or damaged. This vandalism was discovered early Monday and is believed to have occurred between June 25 and Monday when the damage was not present.
The gravestones included markers dating back to the late 1800s, with many being knocked over and cracked. While no arrests have been made yet, law enforcement officials are working with various organizations to investigate the incident. Families are advised not to touch the vandalized markers to preserve the integrity of the investigation.
There is no timeline for repairing the damaged gravestones, but some families may be able to cover repair costs through homeowners insurance. For those who need assistance, there is a donation page on the Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati website. President Joe Biden, among others, has condemned the vandalism, with many suspecting it was motivated by hate.
The incident is part of a concerning trend of rising antisemitism in the United States, with a significant increase in reported incidents over recent years. While the investigation is ongoing, many believe that this act of vandalism was a hate crime. The community is shaken, yet determined to ensure that all the gravestones are restored and that justice is served to those responsible.
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