Arrest over threatening note at top US college

Police in Providence, Rhode Island have arrested a suspect following an alleged antisemitic incident involving a threatening note at Brown University.

The note, which included violent threats against Jewish people, was discovered in the Hillel reception area of the Ivy League college. It followed two incidents of antisemitic graffiti found over the summer.

Rabbi Josh Bolton, executive director of Hillel, said he was “encouraged” that the Providence Police Department had conducted “a full investigation” into the incident and that an arrest had been made. Rabbi Bolton noted that the case had now been passed to the Attorney General’s office.

The threatening antisemitic message was reported to Brown’s Department of Public Safety (DPS). The matter, including the previous incidents of antisemitic graffiti, was referred to Providence police. 

Noting that the suspect was not a member of the Brown community, Rabbi Bolton expressed thanks to the DPS and police for their “swift and thorough handling” of the situation and his gratitude to the “many voices” who had expressed support for Hillel and Jewish students at Brown. 

University spokesperson Brian Clark said the college was “grateful” that “with assistance from Brown DPS and Hillel” the Providence police were able to “successfully investigate this incident” and make an arrest.

“While we hope this offers some level of reassurance,” added Mr Clark, “it remains deeply distressing that members of the Jewish community on campus… continue to face antisemitic acts like this, which should have no place in any community.”

Campaign Against Antisemitism reports on news and incidents relating to antisemitism throughout the United States.