Introduction to the Incident
Two Syracuse University students have been charged with burglary as a hate crime after one of them allegedly threw a bag of pork into a Jewish fraternity house as people gathered to observe Rosh Hashanah, police said Wednesday.
The two 18-year-olds were also charged with one count of criminal nuisance in the incident about 5:45 p.m. Tuesday at the Zeta Beta Tau house, Syracuse police said.
University Response
Allen Groves, chief student experience officer for Syracuse University, called it a “deeply troubling incident" in a message to the campus community Tuesday night.
“Tonight’s incident as reported to us is abhorrent, shocking to the conscience and violates our core value of being a place that is truly welcoming to all,” he said. “It will not be tolerated at Syracuse University.”
Details of the Incident
One of the accused students entered the frat house and threw the bag of pork inside while the second drove the vehicle that they then used to flee, Groves said. Both were apprehended by police soon afterward, he said.
Syracuse police said the two students were detained and charged after consultation with the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office.
The bag of pork was thrown into the fraternity house as members were eating dinner on the first night of Rosh Hashanah, which is the Jewish New Year and observed over two days. It is the beginning of the High Holidays.
Investigation and Charges
An emailed request for comment sent to the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office was not immediately returned on Wednesday night.
District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said that the case is being treated seriously, and he said Zeta Beta Tau is a known Jewish fraternity, NBC affiliate WSTM of Syracuse reported.
“This incident is not a foolish college prank and will not be treated as such. It will be treated for what it is, a crime directed against a group of Jewish students enjoying a celebratory dinner and seemingly secure in their residence,” Fitzpatrick said, according to the station.
A suspected motive was not released in statements by the police or university.
Conclusion
The incident at Syracuse University highlights the importance of addressing hate crimes and ensuring a welcoming environment for all students. The university’s swift response and the district attorney’s commitment to treating the case seriously demonstrate a dedication to upholding these values. As the investigation continues, it is essential for the community to come together in support of the affected students and to promote a culture of inclusivity and respect.
FAQs
Q: What happened at the Syracuse University fraternity house?
A: A bag of pork was thrown into the Zeta Beta Tau house, a Jewish fraternity, during a dinner gathering on the first night of Rosh Hashanah.
Q: Who was charged in the incident?
A: Two 18-year-old Syracuse University students were charged with burglary as a hate crime and one count of criminal nuisance.
Q: How did the university respond to the incident?
A: The university’s chief student experience officer, Allen Groves, condemned the incident and stated that it would not be tolerated, emphasizing the university’s commitment to being a welcoming place for all.
Q: What is the status of the investigation?
A: The case is being treated seriously by the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, and the suspected motive has not been released.
