Two Teens Jailed for Racial Attack on Rabbi After Police Hunt
Two teenage boys have been sentenced for a racist assault on a rabbi, thanks to a tip-off from a vigilant third party. The youths, aged 15 and 16, faced justice at Stratford Youth Court on 21 July for racially aggravated common assault.
Youths Get Tough Sentences for Hate Crime
- Each received a 12-month Youth Rehabilitation Order.
- They face a strict 12-hour nightly curfew, monitored electronically, for 30 days (6pm to 6am).
- Both must pay a £21 victim surcharge.
- Ordered to complete a 10-day Diversity Awareness Programme.
Rabbi Assaulted and Abused in East London Park
The attack happened on 29 November at around 9:45pm in Amhurst Park. The 54-year-old victim was punched and spat at while being bombarded with anti-Semitic slurs.
On 30 November, police were alerted after a third party reported the assault. The rabbi had already left the country on a pre-arranged trip, but cops tracked him down by 3 December.
Despite minor injuries, the attack left the victim shaken, with full support from the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS).
Public Spotters Lead to Arrests
After a media appeal released CCTV images of the suspects, a member of the public recognised the boys. Both surrendered themselves at an East London police station in the early hours of 17 December and were promptly arrested.
Detective Constable Matthew Cooksey said: “Hate crime is not tolerated and we take such offences extremely seriously. It’s upsetting the boys initially denied their actions. I hope this conviction offers some closure to the victim.”
Met Police Ramp Up Drive Against Hate Crime
The MPS reaffirmed its commitment to stamping out hate crime, encouraging victims to come forward. If you’ve experienced or witnessed hate crime, report it via police on 101 or the MPS website. In emergencies, always call 999.
Hate crimes often go unreported, but the Met, alongside its partners, vows to support victims and pursue justice relentlessly.
