NORTHEAST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - Two suspected car vandals who allegedly damaged more than 20 cars at Northeast Miami-Dade synagogues have been arrested.
According to the car owners and those who attend the synagogues, as many as 23 cars were broken into near three synagogues, back on Aug. 21. Cops said, Monday, that two teenagers were arrested in connection to the crimes.
North Miami Beach Police and Miami-Dade Police departments increased their presence in these areas, passing out flyers to homeowners as a precaution.
Both police departments went door-to-door asking residents for information regarding the vandalism, and apparently, Saturday Night, police had a break in their case.
According to sources close to 7News, North Miami Beach Police were called to an area close to the synagogues where two teens, ages 15 and 17, were loitering and prowling on Saturday night. North Miami Beach Police said they arrested the pair and charged them with multiple car burglaries.
“It’s a big deal, you know,” said Josh Fox, a victim of the vandalism. “Twenty-something cars were vandalized and things were stolen. My own hatzolah bag, which is for medical equipment for volunteering, was taken. It was definitely a big hit, and kids are worried and don’t feel safe.”
The victims were shocked, Saturday, Aug. 20, after they parked their cars at Young Israel of Greater Miami temple, off Northeast 171st and 10th Avenue, only to find their cars vandalized later.
“They should be apprehended and they should be put into jail and taught a lesson,” said Hindy Rosenberg about the two teens.
There is more to this story, however, as the two teens may have been dropped off at these scenes by an older man.
“The opinion that this is a good community with good people,” said Shirley Gittleson, who lives in the area. “And in every community you get some of these — it happens every once in a while. I’m not going to get paranoid about it.”
Police have both teens in custody. Upon hearing the news that the suspects are 15 and 17 years old, Fox said, “It’s very unfortunate, and it would be great if things can change.”
Officials have not released the identities of the two suspects.
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