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Local News

South Florida Jewish community center hit by hate

Posted: 11/10/09 at 12:10 pm EST

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. (WSVN) -- Coral Springs Police are investigating several anti-Semitic messages found spray-painted on a local South Florida Jewish community center.

Authorities found Swastikas and other hate messages located in the playground area of Soref & Soref Jewish Community Center, located at 5601 Coral Ridge Dr. "I can't believe that right here in our own backyard in our local community that this is taking place in 2009. It's just incredible," Donald Graw said.

The graffiti was discovered early Monday morning and even Coral Springs Police chief, Duncan Foster, showed up to the scene.

"We have small children that go to this school. The JCC has been a great partner to the community and to see something like this is really horrific. It's real tragic," Foster said.

The disturbing symbols sparked outrage from those who work nearby. "We try and treat our children something right from wrong, and to respect cultures and all different types of religions no matter what you are. Accept people for what you are," Michelle Cataldo said.

If you have any information on this hate crime, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

(Copyright 2009 by Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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